November is Godless Month in Japan
What does it mean to live fully?
Walt Whitman celebrated the wonder of being alive. An anonymous Spanish saying reminds us, “No permitas que pase la vida sin que la vivas” — Don't let life pass by without living it. Robert Frost invites us to reflect on the paths we choose.
These thoughts came together for me through an unexpected conversation in my Tai Chi group.
Perhaps the common thread is Carpe Diem — seize the day.
Tai Chi reminds us that life happens in the present moment. Through every movement and every breath, we learn to become more aware of ourselves and the world around us.
In Japan, November is traditionally associated with Kannazuki, the Month Without Gods. Perhaps it is also a good time to turn inward, reflect, and rediscover what gives our lives meaning.
We cannot stop time from passing. But we can choose to be present, to remain curious, to keep exploring, and to live each day with intention.
Don't just let life pass. Live it.
Tai Chi, Aging, and Living with Purpose
A conversation with Professor Pedro Delgado
In this bilingual conversation, Professor Delgado reflects on the practice of Tai Chi, the experience of aging, teaching, and the importance of staying present, connected, and healthy.
Reading guide: Each question appears first in Spanish, followed by its English translation. Professor Delgado’s response is shown in Spanish with an English translation.
1. Discovering Tai Chi
1. ¿Cómo descubriste el Tai Chi?
How did you discover Tai Chi?
Respuesta en español: Con la práctica en artes marciales.
English translation: Through practicing martial arts.
2. ¿Qué ha significado el Tai Chi para ti en diferentes etapas de tu vida?
What has Tai Chi meant to you at different stages of your life?
Respuesta en español: Ha sido muy importante porque me ha ayudado a aprender a tener control conmigo mismo, equilibrio, balance, paz y a entender a las demás personas.
English translation: Tai Chi has been very important to me. It has helped me develop self-control, balance, and inner peace, and to better understand other people.
3. ¿Hubo alguna persona o experiencia que cambiara tu forma de entenderlo?
Was there a person or experience that changed your understanding of Tai Chi?
Respuesta en español: A tener control con uno mismo, a amar las cosas que nos rodean y estar siempre atentos a las cosas que pasan, porque el Tai Chi es el aquí y ahora.
English translation: It teaches us self-control, appreciation for the things around us, and awareness of what is happening, because Tai Chi is about being here and now.
Continues to Pedro Delgado Feature Interview Page:
Please check the feature interview with Profesor Pedro Delgado here.
Alice Trimmer has lived much of her life surrounded by music, community, and people she cares about. A violinist, she taught herself to read music and to play the piano, reflecting her lifelong curiosity and independence.
Alice has a deeply nurturing nature. She has worked with young girls in the South Bronx and has often been at the center of bringing people together and organizing within her community. She is thoughtful, level-headed, and balanced—a person who brings warmth, steadiness, and a strong sense of connection to the people around her...
Featured Project: Dance for PD
David Leventhal is the Program Director and Founding Teacher of Dance for PD®. After a distinguished career with the Mark Morris Dance Group, he has devoted his work to exploring how dance, music, and movement can foster connection, creativity, and possibility for people living with Parkinson’s. In our conversation, David shares his thoughts on dance—and what it can offer us beyond movement itself.
Dance for PD and the founding teacher: David Leventhal