Is there a disconnect between the ideal of spreading the message concerning CMA, and the ever increasing costs incurred by people who wish to pursue them?
For a lot of people, like myself, we have many real life commitments, and (in my case) live in countries which have exceptionally poor or non-existent CMA infrastructure. The cost of even attending 1 week at the YMAA Calif retreat would be in the thousands of dollars, which, with all other things taken into account, is not terribly realistic. Failing that, there are truly excellent books and videos, but these are often at a premium cost too. Admittedly the content of these items often represents teaching and knowledge of a very high standard, and are probably worth the money. Yet they do little by way of facilitating a wide dissemination of the arts. Having said that, the YMAA products are significantly cheaper than those offered by the Yang Family Tai Chi website.
While I understand there is a need to cover overheads AND turn a profit, it seems that IMA in particular are rapidly becoming elitist arts, no longer available to those with only the enthusiasm and will to work hard, but only for those with the luxury of time and money.
That's how it is looking to me at the moment, and bear in mind that I got taught completely free on the understanding that I would show diligence, respect and a willingness to work hard (this was in China though).
Thoughts? Or do people see this as nothing more than a bitter and cynical comment?
Monsoon