When challenged Kyokushin does not show his back (Oyama Sousai)

こら！いい加減にせーや！喧嘩売ってるんかい！

     My wife, Yachiyo works in a very competitive world of property sales involving Japanese clients.  As anyone knows it is a world of " No sales, Out the door." On top of that, the sales division is paid solely on commission with no hourly wages. Once again, "No sales, No income."  On the average,  she goes to work by 0700 and returns at 1900 for a 12 hour work day. From my point of view,  sales demands considerable mental strength as you deal with a variety of clients. Some are great, come act as though they are bonafide Yakuza!
妻のやちよは競争が激しい日本人をクライアントにしている不動産ぎょうであり。誰でも知っているようにこの業界は「売れなければクビ」の世界である。その上にセールス部門はコミッシイオン制で「売れなければ収入ゼロ」で時給は無い。平均朝七時に仕事場に行き、帰宅は夜の七時。１２時間勤務である。自分の視点からではセールス業様々なクライアントを扱うのでメンタルの力を大分要求あれれる。良いクライアントもいれば、ヤクザになりきっているのもいる。
     I think mental fatigue/stress is harder to recover than from physical fatigue/stress. But work is not done when I pick her up at her office in the evening. Once home, she hits the PC and phone emailing and talking to  her clients. Due to the time difference, to catch a client in Japan at a reasonable hour, requires her to make the call past midnight Hawaii time. This makes it early evening Japan time. It is a demanding job even  without co-workers attempts to mess with and obstruct her sales efforts. I truly believe her Karate training has made her tough enough  to live such crazy hours!
メンタルの疲れとストレスは肉体の疲れとストレスよる回復が’難しい。彼女の場合帰宅しても仕事は続く。帰宅して直ぐにPC や電話で日本に居るクライアントと連絡がある。時差があるので日本との電話は真夜中過ぎでないとクライアントに都合の良い時間にならない。日本の夕方早くになる。それでなくても大変な仕事だ。それにの関わらず同業者からの妨害や嫌がらせはキツイ。
空手のおかげで彼女はそのような苦労を乗り越えている。
     Yachiyo has always been at the top or top 3 in Sales and Marketing.  Her awards overfill the living room. Naturally, there are those who are not happy with that. Some actually connive and try to drag her down. They have all failed as her sales record speaks for its self. She has always been the epitome of Budo principles in dealing with such underhanded actions by spiteful co-workers. Like water, she has successfully diverted any head to head conflicts, like the pine tree she is rooted solid in her work ethics and skills and stands strong against the storms cast against her. Budo, to stop conflict. I can truly say she has done that.
やちよは常にセールズやマーケチングではトップ又上位に入っている。リビングルームには数え切れない褒章の盾などがある。そのなか、彼女の実績を良く思わない同業者がいる。彼はは実際いろいろな嫌がらせで彼女を引きずりおろそうとする。全部失敗に終わっている。なぜなら彼女の’実績があるからだ。それに彼女は武道で習った精神と心構えがある。水のように上手く流したり、松の木みたいに根をしっかり作りどんな煽りにでも自分の仕事に対する道徳と技術で不動のままでいる。武道は戦いを止める。彼女はすれが出来る。
     However, as Oyama Sosai once stated, "Kyokushin wa urareta kenka ni senaka wo misenai" Kyokushin does not show his back when challenged. Of course, Oyama Sosai also stipulated that if at all possible try to settle the differences peacefully. A recent incident has made me step in and advise Yachiyo not to hold back but to counterattack 10 fold. I felt that "enough was enough" and now it was time to take action.
しかしである、大山総裁が言われたように「極真は売られた喧嘩には背中を見せぬ」もある。
無論、大山総裁は出来れば無闇な戦いをせずに穏便に収めるとも言っている。つい最近起きた件で自分はやちよに耐えずに反撃する事をアドバイスした。もう「いいかげんにしろ！」の枠を超えて攻撃のみと自分は判断したからである。
Of course, in the end,  it will be up to the company's Human Resources to officially take action. But at least Yachiyo will have gotten her "licks in" and I can guarantee her attacks are accurate and  painful. (^^)
最終的には会社の人事部が正式に行動をとるのだが。まー１０発も仕返しができればいいとおもっう。彼女の攻撃は的確で痛い事は自分が保障する。
     The point of this entry is "When do you take off the gloves?" When do you stop bearing the unbearable?
When do you stop suffering the pain? It is relatively simple when it comes to physical violence, you do not need to ponder. You react in the most efficient manner to protect yourself , your friends and your loved ones.
You do this with the "Use of Force Pyramid" ingrained in your mind. Appropriate level of response. But how do you deal with non physical harassment such as Yachiyo has been subjected to? Yes, there are rules and parameters set out by HR for such things. But HR is not the one at the receiving end.
今回のブログのポイントは「何時立ち向かうのいか？」「何時絶えるのをやめるのか？」「何時痛みをこらえるのを止めるにか」肉体暴力に関しては簡単である。直ぐに対応する。一番てきした方法で自分や家族、友人を守る。適切なレベルで対応する。しかし非違肉体暴力はどうなのだろう。無論人事部に元ずく規則や方針はある。しかし、受けているのは本人であって人事部ではない。
     Now, I ponder if I gave Yachiyo the right advice. (**:) Well it just shows my Shugyo is not complete.
I kinda feel sorry for her antagonists though, they really don't know that they have done. As Admiral Yamamoto stated after the attack on Pearl Harbor, "I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve."
今になってやちよに適切なアドバイスをしたのかと考える。自分の修行が足りないのを痛感する。
但し相手がかわいそうである。ふふ。真珠湾攻撃に関して、山本五十六元帥が言った「われわれは眠っている巨人を起こし、恐ろしい程の決意を持たせた」だと思う。

Message in Hagakure (RTK interpretation)

葉隠 Hagakure

名人も人なり、われも人なり、いかで劣るべき


This proverb can be found in “Hagakure” which some refer to as the “Bible” of the samurai.

Hagakure, 葉隱, which is often referred to as the “Bible” for the samurai or warrior, is a collection of commentaries by Yamamoto Tsunemoto (, June 11 1659 - November 30, 1719) of the Nabeshima Han (clan) which is now Saga Prefecture.

As usual, I will interpret this proverb in my own simple thinking. Scholars may not agree to my interpretation. It would behoove the readers to read Hagakure for themselves and to come to their own understanding. I believe in the saying “ 十人十色”　Ten people, ten colors. We will always have different interpretations. What is important is that we retain the tolerance and ability to understand each other’s interpretations. After all, some think that Blue Cheese is great while others get sick just thinking about it. (^^)

Back to the proverb. In any confrontation it is only natural to think that the person with superior skills and mental training will be the victor. Not only in combat, but in any other crisis situation, internal or external. So what makes the difference between overcoming a situation  and being overcome by the situation? Is superior training the only key?  In actual combat or serious situations, when faced with “real” dangers what makes the difference in life or death? I believe it is the innate spirit that dwells in each and every one of us to overcome adversity. Whether it be Sensei, Senpai, CEO, Special Agent in Charge or the local Hell's Angels rep, we are all human (人間).  What makes a difference is the “spirit” or "driving spirit" 気迫 kihhaku with which we confront our adversities or take on our missions or tasking.
"Dam the torpedoes, full speed ahead!!"

I think this is what “Meijin mo hitonari, waremo Hito nari, ikade otosubeki” is conveying.

Neko chan Ganbatte! You can do it!!

猫ちゃん　頑張って！やればできる！！

Quick pictures from New York

Roushiichi, Just took a shot out the door hear at home, want to show you the snow we have got in New York, that little black dot in the middle of the picture to the left is my mail box, the post if 5 ft. and its 1 degree as I am writing you...

The second photo is from our Kagami Biraki, Kevin, Sensei has typical look on his face, when I set out the mochi...Jen and I made Ichigo daifuku, Mochi with anko....then Jen found a new daifuku, its call peanut butter cup daifuku. Its kind of East meets West...but she tells me she found this daifuku in Bubishi under "medicinal cures"....Told her I would ask the master if He had ever heard of it...(^^)

Snow, Ice Close Halekala Park - Honolulu Weather News Story - KITV Honolulu

寒いよー！！！ガタガタガタ

Snow, Ice Close Halekala Park - Honolulu Weather News Story - KITV Honolulu
Yes folks! It does snow in Hawaii. (^^) I am sure it is not as bad as up there in Mechanicsville.
Have a safe day.

Dr. Martin Luther King

Dr. Martin Luther King

Today is a national holiday commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King. I was just a High School kid in 1968 when he was taken by an assassin’s bullet.

今日はキング牧師祝う祭日である。キング牧師が人権問題, ベトナム反戦運動の最前線で戦った。そして１９６８に撃たれ亡くなった時、自分はまだ高校生だった。

Dr. King is probably best remembered for his “I have a dream speech”. I wanted to share with you some other speeches he made. These speeches also have left an impact on my life. To me they supplement the other philosophers, Western and Eastern and the many martial arts Senseis that I have had the fortune to receive their instructions. Budo, the art of preventing violence.

キング博士は、おそらく彼の"私は夢を持っている"が最も知られているだろう。キング牧師

作ったいくつかの他のスピーチを共有したいと思う。これらのスピーチは、私の人生に影響を残している。私には、他の西洋と東洋の哲学者ならびにの多くの武道の先生から幸運に受けられたし指導を補助してくれる。武道、戦いを止める。

そして友よ、今日私は諸君に告げる。如何なる今日、明日も如何なる困難に直面しようとも、私にはまだ夢がある。それはアメリカンドリームに深く根ずいている。私の夢はいつの日かこの国が立ち上がりそして信条の真の意味を実行してゆくことだ:/そしてこの真理は明確に人間は皆平等である。
“Now, I say to you today my friends, even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: / we hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.”

今の時代の重要な政治的、道徳的な質問に答えているのが非暴力である：人間は弾圧と暴力に頼るなく弾圧と暴力を克服しなければならない。人間は人間の対立にたいし復習、侵害、報復否定する方向に進化しなければならない。その土台となるのが愛である。
 "Nonviolence is the answer to the crucial political and moral questions of our time: the need for man to overcome oppression and violence without resorting to oppression and violence. Man must evolve for all human conflict a method which rejects revenge, aggression and retaliation. The foundation of such a method is love".

人間はの仲間の男を殺しその肉を食べることが生まれた存在の正常な状態でした。そして人間が良心を授かった。、そして、今、別の人間に向かっての暴力は、他人の肉を食べるように憎しみに満ちたようになった。
"Man was born into barbarism when killing his fellow man was a normal condition of existence. He became endowed with a conscience. And he has now reached the day when violence toward another human being must become as abhorrent as eating another's flesh."

暗闇は暗闇を排除できない；それは明かりにしかできない。憎しみで憎しみわ排除できない；それは愛にしかできない。憎しみは憎しみを増加する；暴力は暴力を増加する；強情は強情を破壊に舞い上がらせる。

その悪の連鎖反応は - 憎しみ、より多くの戦争を製造する戦争を生む性質は壊さなければならないさもなければ私たちは絶滅の暗い奈落の底に急落しなければならない。"

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. Hate multiplies hate, violence multiplies violence, and toughness multiplies toughness in a descending spiral of destruction....The chain reaction of evil--hate begetting hate, wars producing more wars--must be broken, or we shall be plunged into the dark abyss of annihilation."

キング牧師の演説を翻訳したいのだが、今ひつ正確にできたが不安である。誤訳はご了承お願いします。ふー難しかった。武の道と同じだね。

Some things never change (**;) (^^) (- -#) (^^)

Michele's display case.

     My daughter Michele is graduating from college this March. Hoooray! Hopefully she is gainfully employed following her graduation. Her major? Voice actress/Theatre.....Hmmmm. Last year in Japan, only 40% of college graduates were successfully employed at full time jobs. I hear it is worse in China. Well at least she has a part time job at the local convenience store for now. (^^)
     Well back to the topic. Michele has always been fond of putting together model kits from an early age.  Not the usual run of the mill model kits of ships and castles but model kits of her favorite anime characters. My study is full of the empty boxes which she insists on keeping. Since the apartment cannot hold all the model kits she has made they are also in storage here in Hawaii, except her favorite ones. Hmmmm. I am resigned to the fate that upon my return from Japan in March my suitcase will be full of empty boxes and her model kits. (**:) Gahahaha.
     But that's OK! (^^) I think it is good to have some things that never change. Sometimes I sneak a look at the animes she is really into. To be honest they are better than your soap operas such as "As the World Turns" or many of the current TV series that bombard you with nonsense. The animes,to include Pokemon , actually has the core values that I value in Budo. Loyalty, Persereverance,  Honor, Ethics, Morals,Self Control, Benevolence. Granted there is violence in most of the animes, but then I grew up with Popeye, Mickey Mouse, Road Runner which was also filled with violence, often times violence for violence sake.
Martial Arts is filled with violence as well. The key difference is that the violence we learn in Martial Arts teaches us not to use violence for violence sake. Through the hardships of training we reinforce our key core values, regardless of the different cultures we were raised in.
     The only complaint I have is.........I'm running out of space!!!! Oh well, perhaps that is not bad thing either. It helps control my spending $$ to get my "junk". (^^)
     I am really looking forward to attending Michele's graduation in March! Perhaps I will take back to Japan all the boxes and model kits I have stored here??!!?? Nyahahahaha. (^^)

Michele when she was nice and quiet.

How time flies! (^^)

Hatta-ism Part 2 Balancing right and left. 右左の平均

左右の平均

       How often do we hear, "I'm right handed" or "I'm left handed". We also see competitors who are undefeatable when playing on their "strong side" but once they are attacked on their "weak side" they are easily defeated by "lesser" opponents. Hatta instructed his wrestlers to be able to use both sides.  Which ever side was the strong side, his wrestlers would use the opposite in daily life. Brushing their teeth, using chopsticks, hanging on to straps on the train, etc..  in addition to practicing their techniques with their "weak side". Perhaps it may seem extreme, but then it probably is the fastest way to gain dexterity with your weak side. Imagine being in the Orient and there were no spoons or forks, only chopsticks! To eat I would definitely master the use of chopsticks to a point I could pick up a marble in a bowl of oil! (^^) Try this one time! A good party game for sure.

      Another Hattaism was 「負ける理由をさがすな」"Don't search for excuses to lose"  Often at overseas competition, excuses such as "the food didn't agree with me" or " I couldn't get enough rest because of the noise" Hatta made it a point to choose a training area which was noisy even late at night. He would even change the diet from rice to bread, In this way none of competitors would have an "excuse" to blame their performance. In a sense, taught them the mental fighting art.  How often in our daily lives do we make "excuses"? (^^)  As one pursuing the martial way, shouldn't we never have excuses?

Kangeiko 寒稽古

Ya gotta be kidding! (^^)

William, Shihandai of Yokohama Dojo sent us a report on the Kangeiko that was held earlier this month.

Kangeiko and Mochi-Tsuki Taikai

Members of Busoukan, Seikukai and Yokohama Dojos.
 

Last Sunday, January 9th, Kenshinjuku Yokohama Dojo had its first joint Kangeiko with Wada Sensei’s Busoukan dojo and Hanamoto Sensei’s Seikukai dojo. Kangeiko written in Japanese is “寒稽古” (training in cold). It is a traditional Japanese way of disciplining mind and body during dead of winter.

 

We gathered at 8 am to head down to Zushi beach. There we changed into our gis at the lodge where we had our fellowship lunch later. A total of 30 plus students and instructors gathered on Zushi beach to have our Kihon practice. Everybody hesitated to take their coats and shoes off because it was freezing outside! After a Kobudo kata demonstration using Tonfa by Hanamoto Sensei’s son, we started warm up and Kihon practice. It felt really good to hear everybody’s kiai in unison on the beach. The feeling of my feet gripping the wet sand was also refreshing. I must admit, however, nobody dared to go into the freezing cold ocean water! After practice, we headed back to the lodge where one member of Seikukai was preparing the Takibi (fire).

 

Tonfa Demo by Hanamoto Sensei's son.

Kiai Irete! Ich, Ni, San, Shi.......Brrrrrrrrrrrr.

All together now! (^^)

After a quick change into warm clothes, everybody was busy chopping away at vegetables, setting up drinks, cooking and having a good time of fellowship. We prepared traditional Japanese rice cakes, known as Mochi. The rice is steamed in a two-layer wooden pot above the Takibi where it is cooked for about 40 minutes. The rice is then transferred to a smooth wooden bowl-shaped log where it is pounded into mochi. The rice is pounded with a very large hammer and the consistency is controlled by adding water and flipping over the rice to get it to a nice paste. I must say that Mochi-Tsuki itself is a true form of art because pounding and watering must be done in perfect timing and sequence.

Hmmm, You go in! Naaah, You go in! I don't see any of the Senseis going in!

Kangeiko.....Brrrrrrrr

Don't pound my hand, yo!

The mochi is then broken down into little pieces by hand and topping is added to the mochi. We enjoyed a variety of anko (sweet bean paste), kinako, zunda (green tea and bean paste), and natto. Wada Sensei prepared a nice bowl of Motsuni (soup with gizzards and vegetables) and Yakisoba. After eating five pieces of mochi, three bowls of motsuni soup, and two bowls of yakisoba, I weighed probably 10 pounds more than in the morning! I have the rest of the year to burn off these extra calories… The fellowship was a real success for the start of a great New Year.

Osu!


William, Yokohama Dojo Shihandai

Mahalo for the report and pics, William!



(^^)

Thank you!! (^^)

      Yesterday was Makiki Dojos first practice for 2011. Although all the kids were not present, it was a GREAT feeling to see them again. It is certainly amazing how much energy and joy I receive from the kids (pokemons). The majority are 5 years old and should a visitor look in, they may mistake the Dojo as a Pre-school that has kids wear white pajamas! (^^)
昨日はマキキ道場の２０１１年初稽古。ちびっ子達全員出席していなかったが、皆と再会して清清しい気持ちだった。子供達（ポケモン軍団）から受け取るエネルギーと喜びは凄い。大体５歳児で、ふっと中を見た人には保育園の幼児が白いパジャマを着てるように見えるだろう。

      One of the hardest things for the pokemons to do is to stand still. Fufu. Controlled group activity is as alien to them as beer. So when the newbies start actually lining up and stand in the Ready position, it is almost akin to a miracle. (^^) One step at a time.
ポケモン達にはじいっと静かに立つことが一つの難関だろう。団体行動もビールと同じように無縁である。新米拳士が実際のに整列し、用意の姿勢がとれるのは奇跡に近い。まー一歩ずつ進むしかない。

     Last year I did not promote any of the kids. There were a few that I considered candidates. However,

they did not reach the standards for self control. So they are placed in "Horyu"　保留 "on hold" status and they have this month to show improvement. I do not have strict parameters for technical skills for the younger age kids (4-6). The criteria emphasis is on self control, listening and adhering to instructions skills and the ability to "work" in a group environment. After all, how much can anyone expect from a young child that practices one a week for 1 hour? Show me a child that can play Mozart well on a one hour a week schedule, or anyone that can read, speak and write another language at one hour a week.
去年は誰も進級しなかった。候補はいたが。しかし彼らは自己管理の審査基準に至ってなかった。彼はの進級は保留て形し、今月一杯観る。幼児達には技術的な基準は大して無い。基準基本は自己管理、指導をよく聞きそれに元付いて行動し、団体行動で行動できるである。
考えてみれば、週一時間の稽古で子供達から何を期待する？週一時間でモーザルトが弾ける子や週一時間で外国後をマスター出来る子がいるだろうか？

     My Dojos (Makiki and Yokohama) are not tournament oriented. If a child decides (not the parents) he/she is interested in competing, then additional training hours will be implemented. In addition, they will have to adapt to the rules of the competition, which in Hawaii is basically non-contact point system. The kids practice full contact style not point style. Fortunately, my good friend Tamura Sensei's Dojo is competition oriented and they do well. I will probably have my kids attend his practice to gain the skills necessary. No sense in sending the kids unprepared. Yokohama is fortunate to have a full contact environment in which they can compete. Several Yokohama kids have shown an interest in competing and are receiving additional training, as well as going to other Dojos to practice sparring (出稽古）
我が道場（横浜、マキキ）は試合主義ではない。子供（親でなく）が試合に出たいのなるそれなりの時間を追加する。ハワイの試合は寸止めがしゅである。そのルールや試合技術を学ぶ必要がある。我が道場は寸止めではなくフルコン式である。幸いに友人の田村先生の道場は試合重視で良い結果を出している。そこに出稽古に行かせる事も出来る。ちゃんと準備しなければ無駄である。横浜道場は幸いにフルコンの環境に恵まれている。何人ｋが試合に興味をもったので出稽古や追加稽古をしている。

 　As for myself, I just enjoy being with the pokemons and receiving their bottomless energies and enjoying their pure souls.
自分はポケモン達から底なしのエネリルギーとプアーな心に漬かっているだけで満足。



(How I look to the kids!)

     Thank you, my pokemons. (^^)

GAOOOOOO!!!!

DON'T MOVE! KEEP YOU HANDS TO YOURSELF!

CHUMOKU! ATTENTION!

(Me) WAKARIMASHITA KAAAAA!!!!!! (> <#)

(Kids)  Haaaai!

(Me)  Riiiiiight.............Haaaaaaaa. (**#)

PS. I am glad I worked at a Pre-School for ten years before joining Law Enforcement.......Whew.....

      Actually there wasn't much difference between the peewees and adults?????? (^^)

      Another nice day in Hawaii after a VERY cold night!

Have a good day!

OSU!

Hattaism 八田イズム

Anything unattempted remains impossible

苦手を克服せよ。八田一郎



Nigate wo kokufu seyo. Hatta Ichiro, Coach, Japanese Wrestling team

Hatta, during his Judo days at Waseda University, took it upon himself to study all styles of wrestling; Iran’s Kocchi, Turkey’s Karakujan and Russia’s sambo. This was base on his idea that in order to spread Judo throughout the world, it ws neccesary to study other martial skills. He went onto become the “father” of Japanese Wrestling. Under his coaching the Japanese embarked on a gold medal rush from the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. His coaching style was referred to as “Hatta-ism”
八田は、早稲田大学柔道部在籍中、様々なレスリングを研究した。イランのコッチ、トルコのカラクジャン、ロシアのサンボ等々。これは世界に柔道を広める為には他の格闘技を学ぶ事が必要と考えた。その語日本の"レスリングの父"となった。１９６４年の東京オリンピックを皮切りに日本の金メダルラッシュが生まれた。その指導方は"八田イズム”とも呼ばれた。

His policy’s backbone was “to overcome weak points” 「苦手を克服せよ」(more close to "overcome things you purposely avoid")  No progress is made when one avoids things. This is same in life, work, and training.
彼の方針のバックボーンは"苦手を克服背よ"だった。避けては進歩が無い。これは生活、仕事そして稽古に共通する。
Hatta would take his team to wherever a stronger team existed and made them practice with them until they were able to win. The mentality of seeking stronger opponents was the norm for his wrestlers. They beleived that progress could not be achieved through weaker opponents.
八田は何処かに強いチームが居ればそこにチ－ムをつれて行き、勝てるまで消え子させた。
強い相手と探すのが常識であった。弱い相手と稽古しても進歩が無いと信じた。
Chiba Shusaku, a renowned swordsman, also spoke in the same terms. He would always tell his students 「上手な人と稽古せよ」Practice with one who is good. He also said 「目当てはなるべく大きく付くべし」Set your goals high.
千葉秀作も同じ様なことを言っている。「上手な人とけいこせよ」、「目当てはなるべく大きく付くべし」。目標は高く。
I can recall when word processors came out and we had to graduate from typewriters. Even in those days there were some in the office that could not or rather would not make the change. The usual reason being “苦手だから”(I’m not good at it). After the word procssors came the PC’s, again there were many that shied away from the change. Again 、"苦手だから”。
ワープロが出た時、タイプライターから卒業しかねればならなかった。その時代にも同僚の中にそれができないもしくはしない人が’いた。理由は大体"苦手だから。ワープロのあとにPCが来た、その時も切り替えを避けた人が居た。また"苦手だから”。

I find myself going through the same emotions every time I try to write something for the Blog or come up with a new monthly newsletter for the Dojo. How many times I failed at editing an article or placing a photo or vid. Trying to use Excel to make an attendance sheet or editing a video. If Ichose to stay with "苦手だから”……..there would be no Blog or monthly newsletters.
時分も毎回ブロッグや月報を書くとき同じような感情を持つ。何回投書、写真や'ビデオのアップロードに失敗したか。EXECLで出席帽やビデオの編集。毎回"苦手だから”だったらブロッグも月報も無い。

In teaching kids, I find “Hatta-ism” a great tool to develop their self-confidence. If kids can learn to overcome their own weaknesses at an early age  then I would think that will serve them well as they grow up in all aspects of life. It also teaches the, the joy of accomplishment.
子供達を指導するに八田イズムは自信を作るのに適している。幼い時期に自分の弱点を克服できれば成長しながら人生に役立つと思う。そして"出来る喜び”も覚える。

How often do we hear "I'm right handed, so the left is weak". Hmmmm. if you know that your left is weak, then it would seem productive to spend some extra time to make the left as effective as your right. HOw many drills do we end up using only our "strong side"? 苦手を克服せよ。

(^^) グーグルの無料翻訳結果　Results of Google Translation
どのくらいの頻度で私たちが聞こえますか"私は右のように左が弱い、渡したよ"。うーむ。あなたの左が弱いことがわかっている場合、それはあなたの権利として有効のままにするためにいくつかの余分な時間を過ごすために、生産と思われる。どのように多くの訓練は、我々は我々の"強い側を使用して終了しない
Gaaaaa. Doesn't make any sense at all. Gahahahaha。My translation.
どの位聞くだろう「時分は右利きだから左が弱い”。ううん。そう分かっているのなら左を右同様にする為に時間を当てたら効果てきだと思うが。どの位ドリルの際にいつも利き手側だけで練習するだろうか？

Hmmmmmmm？？！！F1? F5? F7?

Jyu yoku Go wo Seisu 柔よく剛を制す

JU (Soft)

柔よく剛を制す

「Jyu yoku Go wo seisu」is a very famous saying among Japanese martial arts. It’s origin is from the Chinese philosopher Roushi 老士’s writings such as

１．「堅強は死の徒なり、柔弱は生の徒なり」

　　Kenkyou ha Shi no torinari, Jyuujyaku ha sein no tori nari

　　　堅強、死之徒也。柔弱、生之徒也　＃７６

２．「天下に水より柔弱なる話、而して堅強を攻むるはこれに能く先んずるはなし」

Tenka ni mizu yori jyukyaku naru wa nashi. Shikashite kenkyou wo semuru wa kore ni yokus sakinnzuru wa nashi.

　　　　天下莫柔弱手水。而攻堅強者莫之能先。　＃７８

３．「天下の至柔は、天下の至堅を馳　地馳騁す。無有は無間に入る。吾ここを以って無為　　の益あるを知る、不言の教え、無為の益は天下能欲これに及ぶこと希なり」
Tenka no shi jyu wa tenka no shaken wo chitei suru. Muyuu wa mukan ni iru. Ware koko wo motte mui no eki aru wo shiru. Fugen no osie, mui no eki wa, tenka yoku kore ni oyobu koto mare nari.

　　　天下の至柔、馳騁天下の至堅。無有入手無門。吾是似知無為の有益也。不言の教、　　　　　無為の益、天下希能及之成矣　＃５７

I took the liberty of radically summarizing the above proverbs and the historical connection with Japanese martial arts. Please also understand that it is strictly a “layman’s” interpretation and not an academic or scholarly one. (^^)

Fukuno Masakatu (福野正勝) the 2nd headmaster of the Kito Ryu is considered to be the person who may have originated the thought　which later became [Jyu yoku Go wo Seisu]. Kito Ryu was started by Ibaragi Shunbo　茨城俊房who served under the Yagyu Family.

In the Kito Ryu “Kto Ryu Fusho Ten no Maki” 起倒流 傅書。In the writings it has reference to water which overcomes any situation and the term Jujitsu 柔術 and Wajutsu和術was born. Later, Jigoro Kano would make this into Judo 柔道。

The common theme starting with Roushi, and ending with Kano via Ibaragi is the “softness” and its power to adapt to situations. Roushi states that rather than hard and tough things there is more “liveliness” with things that are supple and soft. #76. How true, when we are relaxed and enjoying that moment we are certainly "alive" with enthusiasm , warmth and happiness. When we are depressed or feeling pressure all of our mannerisms become hard and rejecting and a very wet rag.

Roushi also points out that water can always get in anywhere and thus overcome obstacles. Thus, the power of being formless is born. (#57/#78). I wrote in the past, how my Judo mentor always reminded us about the "Spirit of water".

Of course there are probably more profund and deeper meanings to all these proverbs. But I'll leave it up to the readers to check it out for themselves.

So what is "Ju" or soft in real life situations? Keeping in line with my KISS principle, I think it is the ability to adapt to situations to a point any flame of conflict is extinguished.

For example, someone berates you for being in his/her way. A simple "Excuse me" or "Sorry" would be all it takes. No harm done to anyone. Besides it takes only one or two steps. Isn't ridiculous to get all worked up over that?

(^^) Just the other day at Walmart (yes I must admit I shop there (**:)). while standing in line at the register, the lady in front of me waved at me to go ahead, as she was still trying to make decesion. So, I nodded my thanks and stepped up. Well, a gentleman who was standing in front and didn't see the communication between the lady and me, tore into me for cutting in line ahead of lady and made a big scene. Pehaps I could have tore into him as well and dislocated his finger that was waving in front of face. I smiled and thanked him for being observant and explained that the lady had kindly asked to me to go ahead.  Naturally after the fuss he made it was obviously embarassing for him to back down without another few choice words. So I thanked him again for being observant and pointed out that the register was open and he was holding the line up. (^^)

Sometimes we get caught up with the technical aspects of training and try too hard to be soft which ends up being hard. Fufu. Soft has to be natural just as you can't get a week old biscuit to be like the Pillsbury Dough Boy ?????? Even if you put the biscuit in the Microwave, zapping it too long makes it harder!

When we try too hard it's the same. Take a step back, relax, refocus you breathing and start anew.

Be like water in a stream. go with the flow.

Of course there may come a time when you have no alternative but to use your training. That is when you take form of the tsunami.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xpayf9xIHsY
But as Oyama Sousai stated in this video clip, "Do not show your back if you are challenged and have no way out".  Of course there is much more that he says but I think you get the meaning.

Continuing the Journey

Thought I would share some thoughts from Kahil Gibran's " The Prophet " one of my favorite readings.

His words have always given me solace, strength and energy back from my high school days when I first "bumped" into his writings. Along with the ancient Chinese and Japanese classics his writings have always kept me from wavering in times of indecision and weaknesses.

During this 2011 New Years, especially after the Hatsuhinode Session, I have been in "deep thought" with regard to my Budo journey.  How little I know and how little time remains for me. I have been able to come this far with the help of my Senseis, Senpais, Douhais and Kouhais and the understanding of my family.

I have to accept the fact that I will be hard pressed just maintaining my health much less practice as I had in my twenties. That is my challenge! To continue my Budo journey and gain more knowledge so that I can pass it on to those whose seek to journey the same path I did.

From the "Prophet"

And a man said, Speak to us of Self Knowledge.

And he answered, saying:

Your hearts know in silence the secrets of the days and the nights.

But your ears thirst for the sound of your heart's knowledge.

You would know in words that you have always known in thought.

You would touch with your fingers the naked body of your dreams.

And it well you should.

The hidden well-spring of your soul must needs rise and run murmuring to the sea;

An the treasures of your infinite depths would be revealed to your eyes.

But let there be no scales to weigh your unknown treasure;

And seek not the depths of your knowledge with staff or sounding line.

For self is a sea boundless and measureless.

Say not, "I have the truth," but rather, "I have found a truth."

Say not, "I have the path of the soul." Say rather, "I have met the soul walking upon my path."

For the soul walks on all paths.

The soul walks not upon a line, neither does it grow like a reed.

The soul unfolds itself, like a lotus of countless petals.

Now for Tony, Japanese lesson #2 (^^)

「心の内濁らず、広くして、広き所へ知恵を置くべきなり」宮本武蔵　「五輪の書」

Hmmmm! 原点に戻るかー。



Ju-kyu Daifuku , 大福 maybe??

First Attempt Daifuku, 大福, now I understand the true mean of Osu! This effort took Jen and I all afternoon, and I did not want to show you our major blunders ( should have had video of that one for you, but there was a little cloud of potato starch in the air, much like fireworks your way Rouchiichi), there is potato starch all over the kitchen.

After eating your toasted mochi rolled in kinako/sugar, Jen wanted to make Daifuku, wer returned from the Asian market in Albany with all we needed, except experience, for those of you who understand the method much better than me, we made our Mochi from sweet rice flower, we did not go the traditional way. We are hoping to take these to my mother for her Birthday on Monday, She will turn 70. Happy Birthday Mom!!

NB: Jen does not like the Anko made from Azuki, so we made some with and some without the anko.

New Year Eve in Honolulu

 

2010 was the last year for fireworks. As of 2011 all fireworks become illegal , including sparklers.

Fireworks has been a long time tradition in Hawaii. It is said the origins are from China. There was much debate as to banning fireworks. On one hand it is sad to see a tradition disappear. On the other we need to think about the health and welfare of the population.

As you can see and hear on the video, it is one heck of a racket! Add the howling of the dogs and you certainly have Beethoven's Fifth ala natural. (^^)

The smoke was pretty heavy and the gun powder smell lingered for a while.

It is of interest to note that Singapore and major cities in China had banned fireworks for a long while.  

For your entertainment (^^)

Decided to upload some Kata from my Hatsuhinode Keiko. Horrible Katas but I believe in the Reader's Digest "Laughter is the best medicine". Enjoy! (^^)

「忍耐を忍耐と思ううちはダメ」大山康晴、将棋名人

"Nintai wo nintai to omou uchi wa dame" Shogi Master Oyama

Yokohama's Hatsuhinode Keiko

What!!! No Snow?? Lucky!

Just received a photo of Yokohama's Hatsugeiko at the Negishi Shinrin Park in Naka Ward. From the looks of it must have been a warm winter in Yokohama. I recall my toes hurting from the cold during my time! (^^) I see Okoshi-san has his spanking brand new Black Belt on. Looks pretty good on him.

The young man behind him is Kobayashi Junior, future leader of Yokohama. His mom was the person that got Ookoshi and Iwasaki Senpais into Karate! KJ played college football and has tremendous speed and power. I look forward to sparring with him in March! (**:)

I am happy and proud that the kids came out and completed the 1,000 punch and kicks together with the adults. よく頑張りました！

HAPPY NEW YEAR Y'ALL!!! (^^)

あけましておめでとうございます。

本年もよろしくお願いもうします。

Happy New Year! It is turning into a postcard perfect Hawaii this morning! Blue skies, gentle winds. Not much more you can ask for on a New Year Day! (^^) 

The best way to start a day is with Tensho!! (^^)

To all followers of this blog. There are countless versions of any of the Katas. None is the THE correct one nor are any the WRONG one. The important thing is to practice what you have been taught by your Senseis.

Do not get too side tracked with origins or other versions of the Kata. Practcie diligently and understand the Kata as it is taught to you. You may still have questions. That is fine and natural. Explore how YOUR kata can answer your questions. Use common sense in deciphering the moves. I try to stick with KISS. Keep it swift and simple. Fancy convoluted moves are (in my mind) only for show and are difficult to apply in an actual altercation. 

Have A great 2011! OSU!