Ueshiba Aikido Victoria, Canada

Ueshiba Aikido e-Reflections

ISSN 1712-2341

Dec 24, 2007

"Techniques employ four qualities
that reflect the nature of our world:
hard as a diamond,
flexible as a willow,
smooth-flowing like water,
or as empty as space."

O Sensei Morihei Ueshiba

Congratulations to everyone who went through their Grading Test in November. I had a profound realisation while I watched the students go through their test. I spent the entire month wondering how to translate that into words. The month passed, and it became a wonderful lesson for me on "procrastination." And now, here we are on the eve of Christmas once again, a special time of the year when the spirit of joy, peace and giving abounds.

Watching the students go through their paces, I was glad that some students were able to effortlessly perform the techniques, with no-thought. It is evident when a student calculates and thinks before responding to each committed attack. We practice constantly, during each class, to eventually achieve what O Sensei mentions in the quote above. In essence, to have the ability to respond naturally and appropriately to what is necessary, without hesitation.

For the student who lives and breathes the essence of Aiki, there is a calmness when facing their partner. There is no thought of judgement, criticism, anger, anxiety, contention, or arrogance. They exude sincerity without even trying. There is confidence and firmness without being overbearing. There is nothing to prove, which paradoxically brings on immense success. Often, they are not even aware of this, because they are at peace within themselves. This is why it is difficult to answer the question "What is Aikido?", or "Can you show me what you do?" Questions like these could lead into unnecessary arguments, fights, and the need to prove "who is better" or "who is correct". It is better just to say "Come and see".

In this season of Christmas, we celebrate an event: the birthday of a child born in a manger, among the hay and the animals. What did the angels say to the shepherds? Go and see. Later, when the curious wanted to know what was taught, they were invited to: Come and see. What is eventually discovered brings peace; inner-peace.

On this journey together, I appreciate you being here with me. And so I wish you the same: Peace, ... in your heart, in your mind, in your being, and with all, around you.

Have a blessed Christmas and a meaningful New Year

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