Kittens_and_Jesus wrote:
I'm glad to hear it.
I'd like to add that I share a lot of concerns that critics of Aikido have. Too many of us haven't studied other martial arts and don't really know how to strike a person. Sometimes our practice is too cooperative. I get frustrated by my dojomates and I think of trying a different art, but then I am reminded of the skill of my sensei. He's a gokyu karateka (5th degree black belt in karate) and really knows how to fight. Still, he abandoned the competitive world of martial arts and chose Aikido. When he applies a technique I am powerless against it, and his skill pales in comparison to his teacher. I'm not saying I think he's invincible or anything, but I have to believe that means something.
Hello K & J,
He sounds very wise and prudent. How you can you not respect and love someone like he is? Of course what you see means something. There are many layers to what you are seeing. These same patterns are everywhere around us!
I understand your frustration with your dojomates. Sometimes I wonder what it would take to get a fellow believer to desire to learn more. But they are content right where they are. Even though I realize that this is where they need to be for now, I long to be able to discuss further and deeper understandings. That is when I try to remember how long it took me to get to where I am. But I still want to be able to share more....sigh.
Blessings,
jo