An Example


	An example

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Character

A teaching assistant needs to have good character. In China, the master would be held accountable for the public misconduct of his students.
Courtesy, manners, politeness and honesty are basic requirements.

Moral

Moral conduct and restraint are also expected. It is important to take responsibility for what you are learning and show consideration to others who are less fortunate than you.
These may sound like old fashioned values but the tai chi tradition is an ancient one; and its values have proven their worth over the centuries.
Right conduct, courage, benevolence, respect, honour and self discipline are all a given in our classes.

G'Kar: You are not sorry because you feel remorse. You are sorry because you got found out.

(Babylon 5)

Higher standards

Sifu Waller does not require you to practice your typical level of courtesy in relation to our class. He expects more.
If you watch how Master Kan address the novitiate Caine in the Kung Fu Tv series pilot episode, you will understand.
As head monk, Master Kan answers to no one. Yet, he shows humility and courtesy to the lowest ranking member of their community.

In class

Good manners in tai chi reflect refinement. We are engaged in a dangerous endeavour and it is important to show respect to those around you:

• Please
• Thank you
• Apologise sincerely when you inflict pain
• Ask
• Gentle humour
• Excuse the interruption
• Warmth
• Apologise sincerely when you are in error
• Be polite at all times

These simple courtesies will make the class environment calmer and more conducive to productive practice.

Lower grades

Students of a lower grade will look to teaching assistants for an indication of how to behave in class. This is your opportunity to impress upon them the tai chi way.

E-mail

Rachel regularly sends e-mails to teaching assistants, providing extra information and detail. Yet, it is rare for a teaching assistant to thank Rachel for taking the time to compose the e-mail.
Or to say that they appreciate her being thoughtful and caring enough to send it.

Taking for granted

Taking somebody for granted is disrespectful and leads to resentment. In the case of class e-mails it will ultimately lead to a withdrawing of the good oil.
If somebody cares enough to set time aside to be of assistance to you, surely you have good reason to feel genuine gratitude?

Communication

Listening skills extend beyond physical training. By carefully and attentively listening when people speak to you, it is possible to gain a fuller sense of what they are seeking to impart.
Are you listening when they speak? Or are you just waiting to say your piece? Is their message getting across? Do you understand what they are conveying?

Non-verbal communication

Read other people's body language carefully. Often you will see fear.
But also pay attention to your own body language. A clean, well-presented uniform, tidy grooming and pleasant body odour will not go unnoticed.
Consider how you are standing: are you relaxed, slovenly, slouching or upright? What are you physically conveying?

Representing our class

As a teaching assistant you must consider your behaviour carefully when acting as an agent of the class. The highest form of conduct is expected of you.

Daily life

You are entitled to act as you see fit in your everyday life. However, Sifu Waller has found that good manners serve to smooth your way through life.
Whilst not everyone will reciprocate, many people notice good manners. By speaking with courtesy, you are essentially advertising your refined sensibilities every time you open your mouth.

Master Kan: Please excuse me.

(Kung Fu)