Double Nine Festival

   Double Nine is special for Wudang in that it recognizes two of our patron figure heads. First is Xuan Wu, the mysterious warrior of the north, often depicted with his two familiars, the snake and the turtle. Legend has it that after he perfected his human potential on the mountains of Wudang, he leapt off the southern peak and was carried up to the heavens on the back of a flaming dragon. The day of his ascension is recognized on the ninth day of the ninth moon, or double nine.

   The other saint we recognize on double nine is Zhang San Feng, the head of our kung fu family lineage. He's our great¹⁶ grandmaster, and most noted for creating Tai Chi Chuan - The Grand Ultimate Fist - you know, that slow air-karate thing all the old people do in the park every morning. Well, turns out that great¹⁶ grandpa's birthday is on double nine also, but what's so special about double nine anyway?
   In short, of all the single digits, nine is the largest odd number. It's the ultimate yang. Nines illustrate the limitless expanse of heaven above. When there are two nines, their meaning is amplified. Together, they symbolize infinity, or "forever." Now, with those three short stories in mind, try to read them again as blessings. "May we all realize our potential, may our gifts be of value to others, and may we leave a lasting mark of service that ignites the sky for generations to come."

✧ Double Nine Holiday Check ✧

Climb a Mountain: Expand your horizons and broaden your view.
Go Train: Practice makes progress. Work hard to earn your potential.
Serve Others: Volunteer somewhere. Help out. Touch someone's life. 
Get Good Rest: You can't fill cups all day without filling yours first.

Discover your Purpose through Service

Contents

・Shifu Says: A brief word from our head teacher, Shifu David Wei.
・Let's Train: Shifu is teaching, a lot! Here's where you can catch him.
・Tea of the Month : Trick AND treat! We get a new flavor AND a bonus!
・The Daoist Calendar: Special holidays and how to observe them.
・Learning Courtesy: Hijinks and harmony of Gretchen and Grace.