Chao-Li Chi

I was just thinking of Chao-li a couple of days ago, and was sharing some of his words of wisdom with a friend. I did not realize that the anniversary of his passing was coming up. Then, just like clockwork, this email came to my inbox as a reminder. I feel so fortunate to have been in his Tai Chi class for so many years at the Pacific Asia Museum courtyard in Pasadena.

I was just thinking of Chao-Li yesterday. I have no idea why he popped into my head and did not realize it was the anniversary of his passing. I just now saw the email about it with a link back to this site. Chao-Li was a kind and patient soul and taught us so much at the Tai chi Class on Saturday mornings. in the courtyard at the Pacific Asia Museum in Pasadena, California.

Chao-Li's name came to me this evening (July 20, 2023). I knew he had passed over a decade ago. I learned Tai Chi from him when I was a student at Living Arts in Dayton. I knew little of his illustrious past and his fame since moving to California. I see him in my memory vividly as he came into class with his gentle posture and always smiling. We laughed about an article that the Dayton Daily News wrote about Living Arts, featuring a photo of Chao-Li with the caption, "Tai Chi Chuan teaches...

I met Chao-Li Chi a life ago in the 60´s at the New School where we were both studying and we became friends. I soon moved abroad and lived in Spain for over 50 years before moving back to NYC seven years ago losing track of Chao-Li. Last night I saw his excellent performance in the Joy Luck Club film and noticed his name on the credits and then sadly discovered that he had passed away in 2010. I will remember him fondly. My warmest condolences to his dear family.

Thank you so very much, Chao-Li Chi. We first met in your Tai Chi classes at CSULA in 2001. From the first moment I saw you, I felt a kindred spirit. Your warmth and genuineness were so very special and touching, and I felt as if I had re-joined with an old friend. When I heard of your passing, I was crushed. I pray that you went in your sleep in the most wonderful and peaceful manner. My deepest and sincerest condolences to your family and friends. Thank you, Chao-Li, dear friend and...

I just want to echo what Jim Glaser stated about Chao Li's teaching presence. I remember over the years at the Pacific Asia Museum, he would go around giving students one on one advice about their Tai chi. He always told me it is more about movement and flow than in doing it correctly or exactly according to form. I always will cherish the memory of his gentle and non-dogmatic teaching presence.