Expressions of the Wood Element
Ann Bruinsma Ann Bruinsma

Expressions of the Wood Element

In Chinese Medicine, springtime is represented by the Wood Element

The plants are sprouting, breaking through the earth, and growing. Each sprout is determined to fulfill its purpose, and has the motivation to grow into the dandelion or tomato plant or elm tree that it is destined to become.

Imagine the feeling of a sprout, unable to break through the surface of the earth and achieve its purpose. The sprout begins to grow, only to be stopped by the soil’s impenetrable crust. The sprout becomes frustrated, feels stuck, can’t find a path forward: this is the recipe for Anger.

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Eagles Take Flight: Proud Mama
Ann Bruinsma Ann Bruinsma

Eagles Take Flight: Proud Mama

Please allow me an article to brag about my kids... I will try to tie it all in with Qigong and a harmonious energetic expression!

My heart overflows with pride to share that my son James (18) and daughter Allison (16) just achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. They were engaged, committed, and focused over the last 5-7 years to attain this distinction.  

At the end of June, they were honored with 8 other scouts from our troop. Together, they were called the Tenacious Ten, because tenacity is exactly what you need in order to complete the rigorous requirements to achieve Eagle Scout.

The Daily Camera newspaper interviewed the teens in this pdf article!  

The scouts share their favorite memories, adventures, and leadership roles.  Allison's interview was front and center, as she was the 1st female Eagle Scout in our troop.  Being a trailblazer had its share of challenges and rewards.  Our family is grateful that we could enjoy Scouts as a family, regardless of gender.

I recognize the complicated feelings many people have about Boy Scouts (now Scouting America) after the scandals of the last half-century.   We are fortunate to have a rewarding and enriching experience, supporting the many virtues we cultivate in Qigong:  Harmony with nature, Empowerment, Compassion, and Engagement.

I aim to share a little glimpse of what it looks like to be an Eagle Scout.

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