Aikido as a way of life.

 First of all, I have to reframe the title. My mind would like to make the times difficult. Through the lens of my practice, I will define them as different. Our dojo has gotten smaller. Students have died, left for personal reasons or are practicing with us on zoom. We do have 2 students who are regularly coming to the dojo. I am grateful for all who train with us. Aikido practice cleans my mind, spirit and body of negativity. When I start to think things should be different than they are, I remind myself of what I am grateful for, such as: a beautiful dojo at my house, a partner to train with, commitment of 35 years, being able to move freely at 65, students, and a general sense of well being. Covid time has provided me with quiet time that  I might have felt guilty about and not taken for myself. When my mind wanders to self pity I can practice being centered and relish what is because I can't change most of it.  I can change how I view things and I am grateful that I ...

 So long ago and still I remember every detail of the day.

 Keeping a positive mind requires a lot of discipline from me. I often feel victimized and have to remember that I get to choose how I look at circumstances.  Just because my first thought goes to poor me, doesn't mean I have to dwell there. I can pause, pray and then proceed. When I am in tune with the universe I am not a victim. My thoughts stay light. My body feel strong. 

 Just getting on the mat or on zoom makes all the difference. When you bring the body, the mind will follow. And here is the best part, after class you feel much better. Happens every time. I was looking at picture from back in the 90s when we had 30 peoples training with us regularly. The dojo is much smaller now. We have people who train on zoom, too. Still, after all this time, after every class, I feel better. How do you get to be a 7th degree black belt? You keep training and you don't die. That's it.

 I have been training in Aikido for 35 years. I have had ups and downs. Sometimes going to class felt like the hardest thing to do in that moment. There have been tears and triumphs. People come and go. Some I am happy to see leave and others left me sad. Still, I put on my gi and hakama no matter what my head has to say. I warm up and I practice because I must. Aikido runs through my veins, sings in my spirit and colors my world. I have stayed the course all these years. I am grateful.