On Valentine's Day, we take a moment to reflect on love and what that means to us.

It has been said that love is more than just a feeling. Some will say that with true love comes peace, contentment, and joy. If "peace originates with the flow of things," then being in peaceful love is being in unconditional love. Yet, how many of us put conditions on love? "If this is completed-given-successful (etc...), then I will shower you with love..." and so on - communicating that either in word or action.

Unconditional love remains constant regardless of time, tide, situation, conditions and emotions. There really is no word to describe this beingness, that flows in harmony with "the wind and the waves." It is a state that rests in the assurance that no matter what happens, you are still loved, and that you still love, without conditions and without limits. How many can take that type of calmness, and that comfortable, reassuring peace? It does seem unreal, because the drama of life, and the drama that is supposed to come from so-called love, is so appealing.

It is the same when a person practices a martial art. Many would prefer the drama and the action, to learn to fight in a way that makes the person feel tough enough to pulverize the enemy. When O Sensei compared his art of peace as flowing with the wind and waves, it is in allowing the turmoil to be, while flowing through it and with it.

This is the calmness you develop in class, whenever you practice sincerely and with focus. Some students are concerned about the attacking partner's hands, grabbing or blocking them. Trust your own balance and your own movements. Keep your hands open and extended from your centre, and move on your own axis while performing your technique. You will find the heart of your power is in flowing with the movement that comes with the attack. Flow without judgement and without conditions. Then, continue to flow with peace and love wherever you are and in whatever you think, say, and do.

Happy Valentine's Day!

In peace and harmony,
Rafael Oei Sensei.
(© Copyright February 2007: Rafael Oei)

Click here for the Ueshiba Aikido Website

< Click here for the Articles Page