I managed to tear myself away from a work-heavy Saturday to get to bagua class on Saturday night. The preparations for National Day seemed to have been completed, so no helicopters buzzed us this time. Class was interesting enough, as usual, and we started covering the fifth palm. After class, I was chatting to some of the other students, and one mentioned that a group have started meeting on Sundays to revise what they have learned so far. I was invited to come along as well.
So, the next evening, as I’d finished all my meetings for the day, I met them at the agreed place, opposite the Pearl Centre in Chinatown. There were seven, including me: skeletal but sprightly Uncle Chong (who used to be in army logistics), Uncle Wong (I think) who writes notes on every move in a little notebook, and two aunties whose names I haven’t caught (one is the old lady who has real trouble remembering moves who I mentioned before; she’s very quiet, and doesn’t say much. The other auntie is much more lively – she’s the life of the party, always chattering, and has studied taijiquan a lot). There were also two younger guys – Jono, the baby-faced personal banker, and a Chinese lad who’s come from Fujien Province to work in an air-conditioner factory here. A very diverse group!
The lively auntie said she knew a good place to practice, so we followed her… to Duxton Plain Park, where I normally practice! There was a lot of talk about Chin Woo, but I couldn’t really follow it. We practised for about an hour and a half, going through the sequence that we’ve learned so far. Everyone took turns to be the leader, giving the group directions on when to turn and in which direction, etc. It’s a good idea, because that way everyone has to think through the moves, and can’t skip over bits they’re not sure of!
While we were practising, the Chin Woo member I always see there came by, carrying his poles and swords; he watched for a while, and then left without comment.
Afterwards, we all went to a nearby foodcourt, and the lively auntie treated us to dinner! It was a very nice get-together, and I’m happy that something social is emerging from class.
Last night, I was heading home with my shopping from NTUC, and saw the Chin Woo guy practising in the park. I stopped to chat, and he said he hadn’t stopped on Sunday because he had nothing much to say to beginners – we need to work and improve before we have things to talk about. I asked his name; he’s Mr Ng, and he’s been studying martial arts for over twenty years.
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