Why or how?

By -

 When I first started training I didn't have much money. I paid dues when I could. When I couldn't, Ron let me train anyway. 

At our dojo we charge dues. If someone can't pay, they can still train. We believe Aikido is for anyone that wants it. People contribute to the dojo by showing up  and participating. 



When I think back over the years about all the students who have come and gone and a few who have come and stayed, it humbles me. There is a bigger picture. I don't understand why I have stayed with Aikido for so long and still love every class.

I don't understand how I have watched so many situations unfold and learned not to take any of them personally. I put on my gi, my belt and my hakama, then I  walk into the dojo for another class. 

I do understand that this is my path. Today I will continue to walk it. 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

By -
Image
Our summer seminar's theme is "Let's Wrap the World in Peace. For me the inspiration has come from my newest grandson Vinnie. When I hold him, he looks up at me and tells me the secrets of the universe.  I feel at one with what is. I feel at peace. It seems to me that peace is all around us... accessible at anytime if we but look and feel and let. Let's!
Read more

No, I am right....

By -
Image
Whenever we say "No, I am right," we stop the flow of communication...when we insist that uke move this way or that way by force uke will resist and get stiff. It becomes a battle of wills and the stronger physical person will win. They will be right. Aikido is being open to what is and what will be. Uke attacks. I let uke move within the bounds of suggestion and encouragement. By adding my own energy and providing direction the throw is accomplished.  Am I right? Maybe... maybe not...yet it feels so much better than forcing my way on someone else.
Read more

Just keep moving.

By -
Image
  Aikido training when I feel deeply upset is a challenge. I accept.  I have the disease of alcoholism. Some mornings I wake up feeling fine. Other times I wake up to a voice in my head telling me I am a terrible person and not worthy of being alive. No matter which way I wake up, I have a set practice that I do, no matter how I feel or what my brain has to say.   Yesterday we heard from a family member that he was very disappointed in us and was choosing not to be in a relationship with Ron and me.  I felt very sad and frustrated because I know that saying or doing anything will not change another person. I slept poorly as my mind poured over all my wrong doings over many years.  I felt heavy and discouraged this morning.  I prayed as I do every morning. I asked for help, then got up and acted like a woman who has asked for help.  I found one aikido thought: keep moving. I got up, got dressed, did my bathroom stuff, and went upstairs to see how Ron was doing. I listened while he talke
Read more