This is a translation of what is written on Master Li's tomb. Among the disciples my name is Ma Ding (Martin) and Tom Bisio is Tom O.

 

The Vice President of the Shanxi Xingyiquan Research Association, he founded the Taiyuan Taijiquan Push-Hands Association and was honorably elected as its President. Throughout his life, he devoted himself to the meticulous study of both "internal" and "external" schools of martial arts theory and method. He seamlessly integrated the arts of Xingyi, Taiji, Bagua, Gongli, and the unique techniques of Southern Shaolin into a single unified system. His technical prowess reached a level of near-supernatural mastery, and his *gongfu* attained a state of profound spiritual transformation. Synthesizing the insights of a lifetime, he established the theoretical framework of the "Five Hearts"—a methodology that proved unfailingly effective and has since benefited generations of successors. His legacy is truly one of the "Great Vehicle" (Mahayana) of martial arts. He traveled to the capital region to pay homage to renowned masters and seek out sages. His divine skills and extraordinary techniques were first acknowledged by Master Wang, the grandmaster of Xingyi Quan, whose courtesy name was Xiangzhai. He also gained the respect of Li Ziming, a master of Bagua Zhang, who looked upon him with newfound admiration, and the two became close friends. Possessing both virtue and artistic excellence, he neither gloated over victory nor harbored resentment over defeat. Whenever he encountered fellow enthusiasts, he unreservedly imparted his most profound secrets and essential techniques. He was magnanimous and selfless, teaching countless students and never tiring in his instruction. His virtue shines as brightly as his martial prowess, leaving an indelible mark upon the world. His filial sons, virtuous grandsons, and numerous disciples—bound to him by karmic ties from past lives—have resolved to inherit his virtue and carry forward his art. Moved by a sense of loyalty, filial piety, benevolence, and righteousness that rivals the very heavens, they commissioned this stele to commemorate his life and to publicly honor his exemplary character. They entrusted me with the task of composing this inscription; yet, my literary skills are unrefined, I possess no mastery of martial arts techniques, nor do I command any talent for leadership—what merit or ability do I possess to presume to write on behalf of such a distinguished gentleman? Though I have spent my life immersed in the martial arts world—traveling far and wide, hearing of the most brilliant masters across the Four Seas, and seeking out the virtuous sages, eccentrics, and unique techniques of the Eight Directions—it was only when I caught a rare, fleeting glimpse of this Master—like a divine dragon majestically emerging from the clouds—that I felt a profound sense of fulfillment in my life. Having long held him in deep admiration for his noble virtues, I could not bring myself to decline this request. Thus, I have endeavored to compose this inscription to the best of my limited ability, humbly recounting his deeds, though I fear my clumsy words may only serve to tarnish his pristine reputation. 

 

Wang Yingchen, Liu Shaowen, Wu Yuewen, Li Runxi (Son), Chen Quangong, Zhang Fusheng, Sun Liqiu, Han Runsheng, Cheng Fengqi, Wu Zhenxing, Wang Chengjing, Li Xin, Li Baoling, Sun Xu, Li Wenke, Song Cunwang, Mao Mingchun, Shen Huazhang, Niu Chengyi, Cui Jinmin, Shang Yi, Fan Hanwu, Liu Mingchun, Gong Chengliang, Zhang Zhidong, Wang Guoping, Guo Chuanmao, Guo Ping'an, Song Zhiyong, Vince Black (USA), Martin (USA), Tom (USA), Park Jong-man (Korea).

 

Composed by Wang Zhanwei of Taiyuan.

 

(Names listed in the order they appear on the stele.)

 

Noble Character and Exquisite Virtue Endure for a Thousand Autumns;

 

A Spiritual Mentor to the Assembly, His Legacy Resonates Across the Southern Seas—

 

A Timeless Dream, Enduring for Ten Thousand Ages.