Chinese New Year of OX 2009

 How many times
       this circle have I walked...
       assuming bodies,
       burning debts,
       toiling      
       long the hours
       my thirst is not met 

Pacing slowly now
       each line of 360%
       bearing fire
       breaths of light
       into me they bore... 

Weighting me with
       knowing
       my horns entwine
       around my head...
       they have time to grow 

Willows bend over me
       they catch hold
       my crown
Water lifts me through
       ever giving me the undying
       gift of root 

Then in a moment
       soft breath ripples through
       without struggle
       I am released from this yoke
As my tail
       disappears from sight. 

          ~ Marilyn Allysum  (1997)
Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center

 - Painting by Marilyn Allysum

Minneapolis Tai Chi Classes