There was a death in my family this past month. It happened on November 8th and at the same time as I was participating in the Angel Walk that proceeds graduation. This got me thinking about family. I think of family in two ways. The first is by blood relation. I do not have much close blood-related family. What there is consists of my son and his family, my wife Sandra and my ex-wife. The other family I think of is one of contact and connection, rather than blood. I seem to have more of this type of family in my life. These are people who through experience and life have become important to me. I think of many of the FSM and massage-related community in this way. I also consider some folks I have met in my journey through this world as part of this family. Glenn was this type. I met him through fishing, an interest we shared together. He was a teacher for me. As with many family members, the relationship was not always easy. A good teacher challenges those they contact. This was the case for me. I was drawn to FSM for the opportunity it offered for growth and awareness. This is what drew me to Glenn as well. Sometimes growth is painful and difficult like confronting the less than favorable patterns I have. The teacher is often a mirror and the image that reflects is not what we want to see. Through his offering of alternatives and support slowly change was possible. We did this dance for more than thirty years, challenge and growth. His passing leaves a hole in my world. I miss him, and think of him daily, a good reminder for me. It is so important to have a family that encourages, supports and pushes us in our journey. I give my recognition and thanks to Glenn for our time together. So, speaking of teachers and influences, Tom Myers is coming. I value an inspirational teacher and Tom fits the bill in my experience. He will be at FSM February 9-10 offering his insights into the development and function of the body. His ability to combine development, structure and function is one of the pieces Tom offers that really floats my boat. I so value being able to understand how and why we are put together and work like we do: body and mind meeting to make a being. This class will focus on the pelvis, an incredible meeting place of upper and lower body, offering useful technique to address issues associated with this area. I am so excited to be able to study with this teacher. If this also excites and interests you, I invite you to sign up soon. A decision to hold the class will be made on Jan. 7th and we need a full group to make it happen. This is a unique opportunity to study with one of the top teachers in our field and hopefully begin a relationship that will bring Tom back regularly. To register or get more information contact me directly at (352) 371-0743 or (352) 213-4603. My email is fmerillat@mac.com.
