A Thank You Note from your Yoga Teacher

Love Notes

I walk in and turn up the heat for class. I adjust the lights and put on just the right music so you will feel welcomed and comfortable. When you walk in, I smile. I smile because I want you to feel safe and that you belong here. I smile because I’m genuinely happy to see you, too. Im waiting though, for a different kind of smile. This is something we teachers are lucky enough to experience if we pay attention. The gentle smile that works it’s way across your lips when you finally sink into relaxation. Into enjoying your practice. It says everything. The glimpses of human-ness in your practice. The moments of celebration, of joy. Of course, I see when your face isn’t happy too. I can see when you’re cursing me in your head. I know, and I’m okay with that. I’ve been there. Because I know you came here to grow, and somehow I am a part of your journey. I am part of the challenges you will face. The tears you will experience. I will watch you fall on your face. I may even encourage you to your edge. I will be there to support you when you take risks. I will celebrate with you when you succeed, and encourage you to get back up if you fall.

I will watch you on days when you are scared and I will watch you on days you are fearless. I will be there with a hand on your back for support when you least expect it, but really needed it. I will see your fears and help you decipher them. I will walk with you and hold your hand as you work through them. You may not notice it, but I will learn more from you, more than you will ever learn from me. You might forget the times when I was stumbling over words and just as scared as you are. I remember. You walked me through those times. You sat in my classes, and gave time to my artwork. You practiced with me when I was shaky. You practiced next to me then, and still. You listened to me when I wasn’t sure how to say what I was trying to say. You trusted me when I could barely stand. You taught me how to teach you. You taught me how to support you. You taught me how to say the right things, see the right things, how to understand this practice on a deeper level.

How can I ever call my students, “my students”? You are much more my teachers than I am yours. Every practice I get to share with you, reminds me of the balance of give and take. It allows me to experience the harmony of life, when a community comes together like it does in front of me in each class. Thank you for sharing your smiles. Thank you for teaching me gratitude, patience, understanding, empathy, and confidence. We only emerge as leaders in what we love because we have been supported by those who also share our love. Like begets like. Love begets love. "When one teaches, two learn" - Robert Heinlein.

Love,

Kari

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