WHOPEEE!! 1.000 Visits!! MAHALO

1,000 Visits!

Wow! 1,000 visits! Mahalo to all our readers.
(^^) 

CLOSE GAME SO FAR! GO HAWAII!!!

LITTLE LEAGUES WORLD SERIES!
HAWAII VS JAPAN

2010 World Little League Finals

Japan 4 Hawaii 1.

JAPAN TOOK THE TITLE!
OMEDETOU!

GREAT EFFORT HAWAII (NATIONAL CHAMPS)

(^^) Been awhile since I last had my ear glued to the transitor radio!

漢字の時間ですよー。It's Kanji time!

Hito/Person

     What does this kanji look like to you? You already know that it stands for person, a human being because I wrote it underneath the character. Such a nice Sensei, yes? (^^) Well the hard part follows. I want all of you to think about how this Kanji came about to mean person. What do you see? Perhaps some one walking? But then the core Kanji for walking is 歩, run is 走。Hmmm. Getting confusing? Join the crowd.  To me Kanji is a fascinating world. Calligraphy is an art in itself which like karate takes many years to get to the starting gate. How one "symbol", if you will, can evoke myriads of emotion and messages.

     This Kanji became "famous" through a TV drama series called "Kinpachi Sensei". It was a drama revolving around a typical Japanese Middle School or Junior High. It was aired during a period when Japanese education and society in general was facing dramatic changes.  In one of the episodes Kinpachi Sensei talks about the Kanji 人。

「人は人によって支えられ、人の間で人間として磨かれていく」A person is supported by another person and is polished by others as a human being. Now, there is some debate as to the origins of this thought and there are academics that have problems with this interpretation of the Kanji. But let's put those thoughts aside and concentrate on the saying itself. With Kinpachi Sensei words in mind, how do you see the Kanji now? Can you see someone being supported by another person?

     In Budo it is the same. No one can master the path on his own. The student has his Sensei. The Sensei has his student. They both support each other in their pursuit of the way.  The family is the same. The children are supported by their parents and in return the parents are supported by their children in the form of responsibility and having a purpose in life.

     Let's put two live bodies in the form of the Kanji 人. If you take away the support of shorter limb, what happens to the longer one? Naturally it falls without the support. Whether it is our pursuit of Budo, studying, or working we must always remember that our own success is supported by others.

Bootcamp Season in New York

Ohayou Roushiichi,

Its bootcamp season again here in New York! What you to know that we are working on much of your teachings and philosophies. Been keeping me rather busy. The Following was our email introduction to the dojo. Just wanted to share.

Bootcamp IV

For most people who enter a traditional budo dojo, they are soon struck by the apparent conflicting philosophies. How can a place that teaches empty had combat teach students of peace. After training for some time in a budo art, I think many budo-ka (myself included) are struck when the newest addition to the dojo, first asks,” when do I get to learn to break boards and bricks with my karate chop”. I smile, and teach dojo rei, or bow. In this bow, we as budo-ka cross our left arm over our right arm. We lower our selves into formal sitting first left then right, only to rise ourselves on the right leg. Now the bow and the sitting look just as nice on either the right or left side. Why? Ask any of our karate students, and I would hope that they would responed. Tony taught me always left over right. Why? For people of the budo arts the left side is the side of “Peace” the right side is the side of the “warrior.” Peace always over the warrior. I would like to think that in true budo one learns the ways of peace though the art of combat.

Now if you are still reading what does all that have to do with bootcamp Tony? Well the veterans understand, Tony goes off on this stuff from time to time, but he come back around and gives a pretty good workout most days. Truly, I find the best in self-improvement in eastern philosophies. In fact, I have even seen a few of the ladies posting and following some rather wonderful, Eastern Budo Philosophies on their Facebook!! I think at times I am more proud that, then the weight loss, or their 5K times.

The point, workouts look and feel to be body breakdown, but we should be building a stronger more confident self. We need to have the confidence, to learn the difference between delayed on set muscle soreness, and injury. (ahh we teach what we need to learn most!). Many of you have shared injuries or major surgeries with me. I applauded you budo spirit, please don't feel funny to ask for modification or help. It's a challenge I enjoy. For example, our ¼ mile speed run/ walk will be tonight. If you can make it in 90sec in our dojo you will be fine. If you would like a good time, my high school track girls tell me under 60 sec is a good time for them. If you have a physical limitation then we can find a new “ evaluation”. These numbers are just that, a point to begin from. I have attached the Performance chart to this email in pdf format. I will talk more about this after we finish our fitness evaluations, might like to bring a copy tonight to class with hand weights if you have them....

This brings me to goals. I really think that a written goal, verbalized to some other person is the way to be successful. It does not have to be to me, or the group of ladies. Many have shared them. We have had goals like>> to run a 5K; make me skinny Tony; arms like Kirsten’s, putting on socks without having to sit, to do a push up….Please think about a 4 week and a 8 week goal. Please write it down and share it with at least one other person.

On to Nutrition: Tanya Lipinski has a wonderful background in Nutrition. One again, she has offered her time and help for anyone who would like to learn more about “eating” for your best workouts. I will ask if you are going to be doing a food log for Tanya to see her tonight after class. I will bring a copy of Tanya food dairies tonight. I truly believe that 70-80% of weight management is done in the kitchen, and not the gym.

Last word, I would please ask that you bring a clean pair of sneakers to the dojo. The karate people workout in bare feet. The small glass and stone pieces really do cause problems for us. Thank you.

Sorry to be so long....I will be short next time...

Tony

一生事なきを以って第一とするなり戦を好むは道に非ず。中条流平法

"Issho kotonaki wo ette daiichi to surunari ikusa wo konomu ha michi ni arazu."

This precept is attributed to teachings of the Nakjo Style of Swordsmanship which is considered the oldest of Japanese swordsmanship. Nakajo Ryu eventually become known as Toda Ryu.  The founder of the Nakajo Ryu, was also a politician and poet who also studied Zen during the Kamakura Period and developed Nakajo Heiho (Nakajo Method of Reasoning) The style has a very interesting history which I leave the readers to Google on their own. (^^)

The precept roughly translated in my limited capability might go as " The foremost goal is to complete life without conflict, to seek conflict is not the path".  Transferred to Karate, I interpret this as "Should you go through life without using Karate then you have journeyed successfully".

Budo or martial arts should give us the capability of not fighting. Some of you may find this strange. But as you train you gain the confidence to protect yourself (physical and technical skills) but at the same time this confidence gives the mental awareness of being able to "see" and avoid conflict. Without confidence you cannot negotiate the hazards that we may come upon in life. Without confidence you only emotionally react to the hazards with physical skills. With confidence you are able to control your emotions and seek a better and safer resolution.

Those that only concentrate on physical skills become trapped in seeking only strength and lose sight of the true purpose of Budo.

The Return of the King's

Some times the budo kami do shine upon us! This summer, all the way in from Western Massachusetts came Sempai Kyle King (back row far right) his eldest son Jarrod (second in from right), daughter Julia (next to dad), and his youngest son Justin (front row far right white belt) for Saturday morning practice. They training several years ago, but do to time/ distance, and Sempai Kyle’s injured knee, they were not able to train with us for sum time now. This summer they returned for Saturday Practice. It would make my morning see them come in with a family Osu!! Jarrod will be leaving for college this Saturday so again we will be missing the King’s for Keiko once more. I know now that life gives challenges and opportunities, this will be both I am sure for Jarrod and his family.

I post this understanding that some of our students here in Mechanicville will be leaving the dojo for college, and the students from Makiki and Yokohama are just finishing there summer breaks and will be returning to there dojos. So many karate-ka, come and go from the dojo, over they years. Some happy, some sad to see the passage of time; I have come to learn now precious time is and how we should not waste the time we have with family, and friends. Here in Mechanicville we wish Jarrod and all the other returning student’s success. I hope that the lessons learn in the dojo, transfer well to life. Please remember Karate-do is always here. I hope it is always with you!

Hawaii Statehood Day ハワイ州立記念日

1959

Did you know that Hawaii is one of four states that were independent prior to becoming part of the United States, along with the Vermont Republic (1791), the Republic of Texas (1845), and the California Republic (1846), and one of two (Texas was the other) with formal diplomatic recognition internationally.

Also,  that the Kingdom of Hawaii was sovereign from 1810 until 1893 when the monarchy was overthrown by resident American (and some European) businessmen. It was an independent republic from 1894 until 1898, when it was annexed by the United States as a territory, becoming a state in 1959.(Thank you Wikipedia for the info)

I feel it is important that while we celebrate statehood we also know the dark side of history as well. That while it may be a day of celebration for many, for some native Hawaiians it is not. 

On a personal note, Statehood always reminds me of the sad history of native American Indians  on the mainland. Like the native Hawaiians, the native Indians (not sure if this the proper name) were pushed aside,  forced in to "reservations" with their lands taken away and their culture oppressed.  We cannot take a time capsule back in history and change the way history took its course.  But, I think as Budokas, with peace as our ultimate goal,  we should not be ignorant of the sad history and  mistreatment of our native Hawaiians and Americans and as  Budokas we should strive within our limited powers to ensure such inequities are not repeated.

人の手足を剣と思え"Hito no teashi wo ken to omoe"

     In Funakoshi Gichin Sensei's " The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate", the 15th principle is "Hito no teasshi wo ken to omoe"; Think of the opponent' hands and feet as swords. A cursory review of this principle would probably be like "OK, so I need to practice so that the opponent doesn't touch me".

Not exactly wrong, but the core message is not to underestimate your opponent and do not get overconfident of your own skills. It is a mental principle vice technical principle.

     One of the basics in full contact type karate is that we condition our bodies for contact. Practice after practice we "abuse" our bodies to the point it would take a well placed punch or kick to get us down.

That type of conditioning has its merits. However in view of the Funakoshi Sensei's principle we need to ensure that we don't get over confident of how much punishment our bodies can take. If we venture on to competition,this is promulgated even further. How many matches have we seen were competitors stand head to head and pound away? Even worse, we see competitors deliberately allow his opponent to flay away in an effort to apply psychological pressure. Not a very good habit to have in real life.

Habits are hard to break. Even more so when you have considerable confidence in your pain threshold.

There is a famous story of a Jujitsu competitor who was accosted by a stranger. He quickly controlled the attacker with an arm bar, the attacker tapped out so the Jujitsuan released his hold as in competition.

He was immediately stabbed and had to get surgery.

Along with our physical and technical skills we must never forget our mental training. Do not let your skills make you water down your awareness and commitment to self preservation. Never underestimate an opponent.

It's summer! Shave Ice time!

RAINBOW SHAVE ICE!! (^^)
No need for explanation! YUMMMMMMMMY
It is hot in Honolulu today.
I

Losing sight of the Path (**;)

Oyama Sosai, Founder of Kyokushinkaikan

Kesshinkai and Kimura Dojo has in its heritage Kyokushinkai Karate which was founded by Masutatsu Oyama Sosai.  We were both attracted to Kyokushin Karate for its severity in training as well as the charisma of Oyama Sosai. Following his demise in 1994, Kyokushinkai has been fraught with political in-fighting, splintering upon splintering with each splinter group espousing that they were upholding the true Budo of Oyama Sosai. Sad to say, in my opinion, a bunch of malarkey. If what they is true why did they splinter? Why did they not close ranks and continue to promulgate Oyama Sosai's Kyokushinkai.

I will not bother the readers with any details of the tragic shenanigans that took place within Kyokushinkai after Sosai passed away.

Recently, word has come out that several high ranking Shihans of the European Kyokushinkai affiliated with Matsui's Kyokushin (IKO1) have broken away and is expected to join hands with another splinter group.

When will this nonsense end? It sounds irresponsible, but I am glad I am not part of it. It just doesn't make sense. Where did the path of budo disappear to?

I have made my own analysis of the situation, simple as it may be.

It is all about $$$. When an organization grows to the size of Kyokushinkai, then $$$ becomes a major focal point. It is natural as we all know its takes bucks to run any organization whether it be a profit making one or a non-profit one. It takes $$$.

World class tournaments is about $$$. Becoming a champion in a world tournament is $$$. Look at the pro sports, the amount of $$$ that a pro sport player can rake is unbelievable. It is the same with Karate.

Being a Champion insures income for the player as well as his Dojo and Organization. It is a very simple formula, students are attracted to Dojos which have famous champions.

Then things get sticky with regards to paying "Headquarters" royalty fees. After all they carry the Kyokushinkai brand name and Logo. I write this facetiously (^^), it is kinda like when a city PD has a major investigation, the PD's detectives and officers do all the leg work and suddenly when things appear to be on the right track, the Feds show up and state that it is a Fed matter, thank you but good-bye.

There are some out there that may wonder,"Hey I'm doing all the work in Europe or where evers what;s with this big chunk of royalty fees !!!!???) Human nature.

We need to rethink and look at  our Budo path. Let's begin with Oyama Sosai's 11 mottoes.

1.The Martial Arts way begins and ends with courtesy. Therefore, be properly and genuinely courteous at all times.

2. Following the Martial Way is like scaling a cliff - continue upwards without rest. It demands absolute and unfaltering devotion to the task at hand.

3. Strive to seize the initiative in all things, all the time guarding against actions stemming from selfish animosity or thoughtlessness.

4. Even for the Martial Artist, the place of money cannot be ignored. Yet one should be careful never to become attached to it.

5. The Martial Way is centred on posture. Strive to maintain correct posture at all times.

6. The Martial Way begins with one thousand days and is mastered after ten thousand days of training.

7. In the Martial Arts, introspection begets wisdom. Always see contemplation on your actions as an opportunity to improve.

8. The nature and purpose of the Martial Way is universal. All selfish desires should be roasted in the tempering fires of hard training.

9. The Martial Arts begin with a point and end in a circle. Straight lines stem from this principal.

10. The true essence of the Martial Way can only be realised through experience. Knowing this, learn never to fear its demand.

11. Always remember: in the Martial Arts, the rewards of a confident and grateful heart are truly abundant.

「頭は低く目は高く、口慎んで心広く、孝を原点として他を益す
Keep your head low (modesty), eyes high (ambition), mouth shut (serenity); base yourself on filial piety and benefit others.
 
Let us all return to the womb.
OSU!

Field expedient

For a very long time in Yokohama and Hawaii I did not collect any monies for Karate, everything came out of pocket.  This was based on the fact that I do not consider myself a professional martial artist and that I was happy just to share whatever I knew with others. Along the line I was convinced to collect "dues" and off set any expenses I incurred for the Dojo. To be honest, being retired, every penny does count! (^^)

Now the rent is covered.  My dream is to save $4,000 to purchase mats for the Dojo. Hmmmm. How many car washes will it take? (^^)

One of the higher expenses are protectors, punching and kicking equipment. So I am always thinking of ways to have equipment without having to dish out $$$. In the Army, the phrase "field expedient" was often  used. In short, make use of what you can get your hands on. Adapt!!

So, as I was trolling through Wall Mart his morning, lo and behold, a sale on Noodles! Those things you can hang onto in the pool. Hmmm, not too hard, not too soft, some flexibility and $2.00 each! My left over brain cells whirled and I came up with a focus stick (vice pads). One noodle makes three one foot long sticks.

Add a PVC handle, wrap it up with Duct Tape. Voila! A portable focusing stick that kids and adults can easily hold.

Good for reaction drills, blocking drills, punch/kick combination drills.

Once in a while, I can let the kids put on some head gear and let them play samurai.

Total cost per stick came to under $2.00!! (give or take some cents) (^^)

On Teaching

Kahil Gibran 18893-1931

     The Prophet by Kahil Gibran is one of my favorite books. Almost like a Bible to me. The first time I read the book was when I was 16 years old in High School. It had a impact on me and to this day I open its pages when I feel lost.

     Teaching is not an easy. The responsibility weighs heavy on our shoulders. One word or one action by us has the potential of changing lives. Hopefully the changes are for the better. I find myself critiquing myself after each practice. Did I communicate properly with the students and parents? Was the concept too early to introduce? Did I inadvertently set a wrong example by being too playful? On and on. It can become endless. On those endless occasions I pick up The Prophet and reflect on Gibran's words. Allow me to excerpt some of his thoughts.

No man can reveal to you aught but that already lies half asleep in the dawning of your knowledge.

The teacher who walks in the shadow of the temple, among his followers, gives not of his wisdom but rather his faith and lovingness.

If he is wise he does not bid you enter the house of his wisdom, but rather leads to to the threshold of your own mind.

The astronomer may speak to you of his understanding of space but he cannot give you his understanding.

The musician may sing to you of the rhythm which is in all space, but he cannot give you the ear which arrests the rhythm nor the voice that echoes it.

And he who is versed in the science of numbers can tell of the regions of weight and measure, but he cannot conduct you thither.

For the vision of one man lends not his wings to another man.

And even as each one of you stands alone in God's knowledge, so must each on of you be alone in his knowledge of God and in his understanding of the  earth.

I do not know why but I feel relaxed after reading his words every time. (^^)

Karate and Change

One year ago today we were having lunch in Alao Moana after morning practice. Today, one year later, I have to invite you to my garden veggie lunch via the internet. How time changes us! This year Jen is in Virginia caring for her sister, who as I am writing is, having surgery. We are all hoping that she will have an easy go of it, but there is concern on all parts. It brings me to think of how we go though life’s changes. Like our garden today, the plants themselves do not look as strong and healthy as they did just a month ago. However as you can see a veggie and ganola eating tree hugger like me is rather happy with garden during this period. It made me think about karate. I will concede, I might have been thinking about karate already. A few years ago, I was in better shape, not producing very much for the dojo, a trophy every now and then, or a broken block, the last of which is now being used as a door stop, but that is about it. Just one year ago, I sat with you on the park bench and leaned that karate is not tasio. I knew there as more to karate. I had great teachers along the way. I just did not know how or what teaching karate was about. Many of days now, I understand that we do in practice is not teaching, we simply invite others to join us on our personal michi. We provide the model, of good budo. I can not help but think of the students, that have left the dojo, because they could not do the" workouts" anymore. I feel bad that I did not model good budo, and let them get way. At that time, all I knew was conditioning, so we went at it hard. Every day, the students knew we were going to “get a good workout”, but now I look back. Like my garden in early June, our students stood strong, but nothing seemed to ripen. I have been busy, as my bee friends, this last year pollinating our students, with the knowledge of Karate-do. I hope that they will not hate me, but I am learning that the word, dojo…does not mean a hall for conditioning. I am sure that some of them miss the old Sempai Tony. Like my garden here in New York, I am entering a new period of growth. I look at my pictures now that I send you, wondering who is that old man, with the bad right leg, and white hair??

Little Anthony was late for class this week, AGAIN, but I did not know he even came into the dojo. He was seiza, at the doorway, shoes off!! First, ripe tomato!! Well I should leave the post at this point, but those in class will point out, He did forget his dogi again…smile. Like those tomatoes, or cherry blossom we are trying to be perfect, but will accept and understand the effort it takes getting there.

Tachi no Kata from Gasshuku

Tachi no Kata was taught this year. Shihan Flynn and his Students do this kata so gracefully. I unfortunately still notice that my sanchin back leg is not pointing toward my forward leg's big toe. Now I could blame this on my back leg and back problem, but since this issue is most likely here to stay with me, I will need to learn to adapt. I also notice that my forward leg's heal in Kokutsu dachi is very high. I am sure we can find many other problems.....

I had to cut the Tachi no Kata in half. We would turn and repeat the sequence of the dachi in reverse order back all the way back to hesokudachi. Shihan Quinn talks about this tachi kata in the back of "The Budo Karate of Mas Oyama. As I was learning this kata, I was thinking of the dachi drills that you gave me, and wondering if they came from this tachi no kata? I enjoy working on this with the new students, we have been working on it for about two weeks now. Hoping that they began to see the relationship of each dachi to the next dachi. Wonder what you think?? A few more thousand times and maybe I will get better dachi...(^^)

胃の逆襲。Counter attack by the stomach (**;)

Following in Tony's steps, I have been converting my diet to a healthier one of less greasy burgers and more vegetables.  (^^) As in any endeavor, moderation is the key. Extreme changes usually end up in failure.

But alas! (**;) For whatever reasons, there is a sudden surge in new burger joints opening up in Honolulu.

Worst yet, all of them espouse supporting the local agriculture and ranches. Being a dyed in the wool patriot I am naturally an enthusiastic supporter. HOWEVER, with the motto " Taegataki wo Tae, Shinobigataki wo Shinobu" I have faithfully adhered to my changeover. AT unexpected cost to my well being. (- -) Fufufu.

I have been the victim of constant "nature calls" the past few days. It appears my stomach is protesting the sudden input of healthy food substances! The carrots, celery, spinach, tofu, burdock roots the stomach could live with. But it appears the sudden input of okra and a spinach like leaf when chewed has the same consistency of okra was more then it was willing to take. On top of that I ingested quite of bit of Okinawan potatoes as snacks as it is very sweet and flavorful. Now I have to time my outdoor excursions with care!

Honolulu is now packed with "No Public Restroom" signs! Hmmmmmm.

I think this is the same with teaching karate to children or adults for that matter. Moderation is the key. The syllabus of Kyokushin lineage is very long. Normally just Kihon takes an average of 30-45 minutes. Half or more of the overall average training period. I am constantly reviewing my own training syllabus for children.

We need to ensure we do not overwhelm the students with an overload of techniques. Much of which outside of kihon they do not use in kata or kumite. I doubt there be a "Revolt of the Kiddies" but it would behoove us as instructors to keep a finger on the pulse of the students. (^^) 

Perseid Meteor Shower!!! (^^)

Don't forget! The Perseid Meteor Shower is early Wednesday morning! Probably a better chance of seeing it out at Mechanicsville than Honolulu or Yokohama. Too much city lights here....(- -#) Perhaps I'll drive out to the coast line and try to see it.

Don't miss it!!

子供は親の背中を見て育つ。Kodomo wa oya no senaka wo mite sodatsu.

Hmmmmmm.

Kodomo was oya no senaka wo mite soidatu. Children grow up looking at their parents back. This may sound strange, as I cannot come up with a similar English proverb.  I think it is also true in our roles as martial arts instructors. Our students learn by our example.

Take for instant, Samu 作務the habit of cleaning the Dojo before and after training. The purpose is to show appreciation for the place in which we train and not to lose the "beginner's spirit". It is not enough for instructors to command students to clean, we must be leading by example. I go to the Dojo about 30 minutes before practice to sweep and mop the floor. The floor is a common use area in which people come in with their shoes on. It is fairly large and I am grateful I do not have to put away tables and chairs! (^^).  Every one has their own private schedules and I do not expect everyone to be able to come to the Dojo early, but when they do the students and their guardians participate in cleaning the Dojo.

I have one child whose grandmother brings him to class. She automatically offers to grab a mop and start mopping. The boy who is only 5 years old cannot handle he mop, but he looks for other ways to help clean the Dojo. I would like to think that he sees his grandmother and I cleaning, which causes him to to help clean the Dojo without having to be told. Of course, the attention span is short.... (^^)

On the other hand, wrongful behavior by instructors can set a bad example to follow. Vulgar language,

egotistical behavior, unnecessary roughness, and other negative attitudes and behavior can be easily mirrored by our students. That is not what we train our minds and bodies for. Negative attitudes and behavior should not be in Budo. Unfortunately they exists and it is our responsibility to guide our students to the correct path.

I recall back in the early 70's while stationed in Okinawa, a recently arrived co-worker had mentioned having practiced karate in the United States. I invited him to the Goju Ryu Dojo I was training at, but his response was shocking and sad; "I trained in XX style karate, the only real karate, this Okinawan karate is nothing and inferior to my style" I never the less invited him to come and take a look. His response was,

"My instructor told me that Okinawan karate was inferior and told me not to dirty my karate".

(**:) How sad indeed. A student following his instructor. I really felt sorry for him.

Does size make a difference? Of course!! (^^)

Does size make a difference? Definitely
As instructors, sometimes we forget that our students come in all sizes and shapes (^^).
When I try to teach a waza, naturally it is being done in accordance to my size. I would not expect Tony or Hama-chan (Yokohama Shidoin) to execute the waza as I would. That is where Kihon becomes important. Kihon is executed in accordance to the individual’s physical stature. The theory of a waza, take as an example, the chudan tuski (middle punch) is the same regardless of physical size. Everyone naturally punches to the middle in the manner most suited to them. The skill therefore remains the same.
Now in the application, we need to adjust the waza to each individual needs. At some point it may look different from what we do. But then should we expect a 5’3” individual do an age hijiuchi against a 6’4” opponent? Unless you are teaching the person to jump up, it is impossible. So what would we do?
Actually very simple, bring the 6’4’ down to where the 5’5” can make his age hijiuchi effective.
The same thing can be said about Kumite. In Kumite you use whatever advantage you have. If you are tall then it is natural that you would employ kicks to your advantage as you can maintain your own safety zone while attacking your opponent. Then what should a shorter person do? He knows that he/she has to get past the opponents reach in order to effectively attack the opponent. He/she needs to develop quickness in his entries and get out even faster before the opponent can react. Footwork.
In teaching Kata Bunkai and Oyou we face the same problems. As instructors we need to carefully see how the bunkai and oyou can be used by all physical statures. Most times we have the luxury of pairing off students of equal stature, so it naturally makes application of the bunkai and oyou smoother. Now try it with disproportionate sizes. It will be interesting. Normally bigger people would flow to using their power to apply a technique rather than the form. This natural, but how better it would be for them to able to apply the technique with finesse. On the other hand smaller people quickly realize that when going against bigger opponents, finesse is critical.
By the way, aside from the kicks you can see that the bigger opponent has some difficulty in using his punches (Kyokushin rules prohibit punches to the face).
But then what if punches to the face was allowed? (- -;) Scary.
How would you have fought this match?

Sigh....(- -)

WHY DO PEOPLE NEED VIOLENCE??

     I mentioned in a previous post about an ongoing battle of words in the local Yelp. It continued to escalate and the moderator finally deleted some of the comments from the thread. Naturally the commentator that was deleted started a new thread with regard to being deleted. On one hand , we are blessed with the freedom to express ourselves and I believe that is one of the great things of living in America. No secret police knocking at the door and hauling you away,never to be heard of again.  On the other hand, I think we should all exercise civility and tolerance for another person's opinion.

     This ongoing conflict on Yelp has turned my attention to MMA, UFC and the current popularity among the public. Many admirers of MMA probably do not do any martial arts. Some of you may wonder why I write this while teaching karate that has Kyokushin as part of its roots and is a hard hitting full contact style. Kyokushin is also popular and famous for its World Tournaments. Like MMA there are many non-practicing fans of Kyokushin world wide.

     I started to develop my "distaste", if you will, of MMA productions back in Japan. The major fight productions took place on New Years Eve! Various major MMA productions set up matches with name value fighters to secure audiences. After all, they are  profit oriented businesses. If there is a cosumer population for their production it is only natural to get a piece of the pie.  But New Years Eve!! Aside from the countdown and partying, I strongly believe that New Years eve and  New Years is a time for family to get together reflect upon the year going and sharing their hopes for the New Year. Of course, we cannot forget New Years practice out at the park! (^^)

     Japan enters the New Year period from about Dec. 26th  when most government and private industries go into New Years vacation. The New Year begins on or around January 6th. There is a massive shift of population from major cities to the country side as people return to their homes for New Years. Quality family time. Alas things change and now in Japan it is a 24-7-365 life style throughout the year and traditions slowly disappear.

     My question is, why do people want to see grown men  and women  fighting each other on New Years Eve, much less any time of the year? What has happened to family time? Sort of reminded me of the era of Roman gladiators. The audience going into frenzy watching a guy get pulverized. To me that is sad. I find it incompatible with my belief in Budo. After all MMA is an extension of Budo, is it not? There are many opinions with regard to MMA and Budo and everyone is welcome to their own opinions as long as we are tolerant  and civil about it.

Did I make any sense????

Adapting

YUTA 雄太aka Michael

     Yuta, 13 years old  is Yachiyo's baby. One of the prerequisite for marriage was to accept Yuta as well.

     As you can see in the photo he now has cataracts in both eyes, basically blind. He is scheduled for operation in October (there is only one veterinarian who does eye surgery in Hawaii!!!). However it will all depend on his blood test (something connected to having to be anesthetized) one week prior to the scheduled operation so there is a chance that Yuta will have to continue to live with this condition.

Naturally Yuta has had to adapt to his loss of sight. He still has his smelling but that doesn't help too much other than finding his water and food bowls.

     Yachiyo and I  have found ourselves having to adapt our handling of Yuta as well. The "playing around" or picking him up now requires caution. I have already been  bitten playing around with him. It appears that Yuta's tolerance level has definitely gone down. I suppose that is to be expected. His world has changed.
     I think it is the same in the Dojo. As Dojo mates, we all  need to adapt to changes and be more tolerant of the changes others may be going through. As I wrote previously, the Dojo is like an extended family to me. It is not a place where people do their one hour or so and just leave. 
      Members have their own lives outside the Dojo and at times things that affect them affect their training. Although there is a thin line as how much we get involved in personal matters, at the minimum, I would hope that students are comfortable enough to share their problems and seek help if need be.     

     We have now become seeing eye humans for Yuta during his walks outside. Yuta has slowly recognized that the pull on his leash equals avoiding collision with immovable objects. Coordination between us has begun to improve (^^).  This has made me thankful for the cataract surgeries I had last year and the fact that medical procedures continue to make great strides forward along with gratitude that there people out there with enough smarts and skills to do the procedures. Heaven forbid having me handle a laser! (- -;)

     By the way did you know cataract surgery for Yuta is more expensive than what it cost me???
No health insurance either. Oh well, time for instant noodles!! (^^)
Have a good day! OSU!

Ido kihon questions

I have some questions about Ido kihon and the movement that is done. I was wondering about the use of the following terms. Fumikomi and fumiashi vs. ayumi dachi and ayumi ashi? If we are stepping in Ido, which term is correct when the instructor is asking for the students to step? If we would like the students to retreat or practice stepping back ( I know not sure favorite movement!!) would this be sagari? Sliding in with the same foot staying forward, would be Tsugi ashi?

Sorry I am the only studnet with questions...(^^)

Tolerance and Civility

If adults were just as pure

One of the benefits we gain from Budo is learn to tolerate pain and as an extension we learn to tolerate and be civil to others who may not be as accommodating. We learn to keep a calm mind in difficult situations. If we have mastered the concept of Mizu no Kokoro then we can also diffuse aggravating situations where people with lesser control would resort to verbal and physical violence.

How do we learn anger? Why is it we have to relearn controlling anger and search for purity of the soul?

Infants cry because they do not have the verbal skills to let us know they are tired and hungry. I do not think that comes under the definition of anger. What "soils" us that we learn anger?

Why do we lose tolerance and civility?

I am an avid user of the local YELP for dining information. You may wonder why on an island? You must have already eaten at all the restaurants! (^^) Recently there has been an surging "battle" between writers.

Actually it appears that a handful of writers cause the grief by being vindictive and acid of tongue.

The fact that your identity does not get revealed may contribute to this. The non-attributable factor.

It is very sad to see this happen. Civility goes out the window and mud slinging starts. How anyone can build up so much anger and hate against someone he/she has never met is beyond me.

I hope that as practitioners of martial arts we do not become the same. Unfortunately it does exist in the martial arts communities. ( - -;)

or

Which would you choose?

65th Anniversary of the nuclear bombing of HIroshimat

Hiroshima after the nuclear bomb

Today is the 65th anniversary of the devastating nuclear bombing of Hiroshima. Japan has the sad history of being the only nation in the world to have two cities devastated by nuclear bombs. Some of  you may be asking what does that have to be with this blog?  Well, I believe it is important that our students have knowledge of this traumatic event as well as other disheartening events going on now. We should never turn a blind eye to events that bother us. We need to understand why these tragic events took and are taking place. Perhaps as our students reach adulthood they will be able to take the right path towards world peace.
After all, Budo's true meaning is "Stop Conflict".
What does Budo teach us through our training aside from physical skills? Physical skills without the proper mentality is merely violence. On the other hand righteousness without the physical means to defend it becomes merely words that blow away with the wind. There is always a balance in what we do. Extremes do not accomplish anything.  Extremes end up with sad results such as Hiroshima, Nagasaki, Iraq and Afghanistan. One look at all the "hot spots" right now proves this. That is the reality we cannot turn a blind eye to. None us with children cares to see them in harm's way. That is why I follow the path of Budo.

Images from Summer Gasshuku 2010

Images from Summer Gasshuku 2010



We had a great weekend of Training. I think one of the best parts of Gasshuku is seeing old friends, and meeting new karate-ka from all over Canada and USA. Although we did share the same organizations on the floor we all shared karate-do. Sempai Nick in the center here recieved his Nidan Obi this weekend. He was one of the two karate-ka that graded in the April Shinsa.

Although my days of Jodan Mawashi Geri have seem to pass me by, Sensei Ray seemed to keep his youthful flexibility. We worked on kumite drills on Sunday Afternoon.








Of course there was kihon, and to be honest along with kata was the highlight of my Gasshuku. I am still learning more about kihon. Here Shihan is explaining the uraken and the tettsui, that can be found in our uke. I though much of our time in Hawaii, and Pinan sono san. The use of the uraken and the uke in your opening oyo.

Home from 2010 Shihan Flynn's Summer Gasshuku

I am home from 2010 Summer Gasshuku. I was able to train with Raul Dueno, Sensei Miguel Rios, Sensei Hugo Perez Sensei, John Kalaisopoulos, Sensei Nick Savery, Sempai and Gennadiy Ravvinand Sempai all who brought students to Vermont this year for Tom Flynn, Shihan and Toni Flynn, Sensei’s Gasshuku. Just like to mention that I have listed only the shidoshi here, but the Gasshuku is an excellent example to the Zen philosophy. Except for myself, everyone is my teacher. As testament to these shidoshin, I am always impressed with the physical abilities and kindness shown by all karate-ka at Gasshuku. Shihan this year had a back to basic theme. Shoshin no morderu, was alive and well in Vermont this weekend. In Shihan’s words, kihon! In karate there is nothing else. There are no advance techniques, there is only refined kihon. Karate like the onion has layers; advanced grades are simply a few more layers into the onion. Pictures and detail will be on its way in future post. I have much to catch up on, now that I am back home.

Training for FUN (^^)

At Kodokan circa 1956. Training with a smile. I enjoyed and still enjoy training.

  Now, the body is less flexible, stamina reduced and reaction slower but training is still FUN!

Most people see Martial Arts as synonymous with "discipline". Images of stern faced children lined up responding to the instructors and moving in a "disciplined" manner are certainly in people's mind. One mistaken move and the shinai comes crashing down. Children moving like robots. "Suck it up!" "Drop for push-ups" I wonder if this is what parents are seeking, not to mention the children themselves.

Growing up in Judo I never once experienced such "discipline". I grew up having fun and enjoying going to class. Was the training slack? No, it was hard especially for me growing up with equilibrium problems and a mysterious (back in 50's) heart ailment. After all who likes being thrown around squished down on the mat. But never the less, I had FUN! Somehow along the way I learned self discipline and the spirit of Jita Kyoei. The important thing was that it was not forced upon me, it was something that grew up with me. It has stayed with me for 54 years since my first day at Kodokan when I was 6 years old.

As an adult I practiced under a different sort of discipline. The kind of discipline you need because your life depended on it due the nature of your job. The kind of discipline I do not think children should have to go through. I believe children should enjoy what they do. If they enjoy what they do whether it is school, church, family and or sports they will learn discipline naturally.

Training Navy Security Police with my good friend Fukushima Sensei. We all had fun too! Especially with compliance techniques. Amazing how one finger or shin on the right spot makes you do what you are asked to do!! (^^)

Competitive spirit is healthy and serves the purpose of having a goal and mastering the discipline required to reach the goal. However, once they lose sight of the fact that they can only reach the goals due to the presence and help of others, then competition loses its value.
In addition our children must not lose track of the real purpose of Budo.

Different type of training! (^^) With Navy EOD getting a bird eye view in a SPIE rig circa 1990 (?)
I think I am second from the bottom, frantically waving my arms ! I distinctly recall the waist  harness being slightly off and provided me with immeasurable pain during the ride. Gahahahaha.

Literature

Literature is a good source for learning about different cultures. Summer vacation is an opportune time to dig into a book. Naturally, being able to read the book in its original language is the best, but alas many of us have not had the opportunity to study another language. We must rely on the translation.
I have a dream of mastering Chinese so that I can read the Chinese classics in its original form. I have slowly plodded along on in my Chinese studies. Luckily, Japanese also uses Chinese kanji so I can get a grasp of what the content is, but I can not gain the full flavor of the words.
I recall taking a translation course in which we had to translate a Japanese novel. I believe it was
Fumo Chitai by Yamazaki Toyoko. 不毛地帯　山崎豊子。The first chapter takes place in Osaka (not really sure if my memory is correct) so the dialogue is in Osaka dialect or Kansai Dialect. The dialect has its distinct flavor which is difficult to express in standard English just as it is muzukashii (difficult)  to express a Southern drawl in Standard Japanese. I would venture to say there will always be something that cannot be clearly translated.
What would Kesshinkai or Makiki Dojo recommend for reading to the kids in Japan ?
Likewise, what would Yokohama recommend for New York and Hawaii?
I could do this myself but this blog is for members of our Dojos. As such, I would love  to see our students take an active part. (^^)

PS: Feel free to leave comments!! This blog is for all Dojo members, gets lonely when the only comments are from Sensei Tony, Shihandai William and myself!! (^^) As much as I enjoy their comments.