An Open Letter on Support

Dear Citizen community,

It is nearly impossible for me to put into words the way that this community has supported me even before I stepped foot inside the studio. I’ve had the privilege to learn from so many of you that I am not alone in this experience, though each of us have perhaps been held in Citizen’s figurative arms in very different ways. I write this letter to each of you today in an attempt to shine a light on the people, places, and moments that have served as the softest landing for support, without which, life would be so much more difficult.

A list of things that I, and I hope each of you, vow to never take for granted:

• The trusty block, blanket, and strap so I don’t have to hold myself up all the time.  

• A cubby and coat hook just for me, even on the fullest of days, because I will always have a place here.

• The 6 (or sometimes 2…) inches of space between my mat and the person next me, so that we’re never too far to hold a hand or say hello.

• A practice to know myself so that I can better know the universe.

• That 365 days per year, there is always at least one, but usually hundreds, of individuals also trying to make themselves, and therefore this world, more kind and loving and gentle.

For all of this and more, I send a cascade of gratitude from my screen to yours. To our teachers, who pour endlessly from a cup overflowing with the knowledge and traditions of this practice. To our students, who traverse the wilds of the world to make it through our doors and into our spaces time and time again. And to our fearless founder, Kacee, who captains the ship so that we may all sail to more beautiful lands ahead. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

All my love,

Elyse

Today’s Prompt:

Write a letter to a person that has supported you through your life. If possible, within the Citizen Yoga community.