Being the month of November, we remember those who have passed on, and honour their memory in the silence of the heart, and in the silence of a prayer.

Practicing a non-aggressive martial art such as Aikido, it is normal for a student to wonder what were to be done if one were caught in an attack similar to that in Paris on Friday 13 November. Occasionally, I do introduce scenarios that we practice through to show the practical link to life situations. However, I also mention that if someone wanted a person killed, there are so many ways it may be done. A scary thought.

So why then, for instance, do I practice Aikido?

To keep in good practice as an Aikidoist and a sensei. To practice at being alert and objective. To practice being disciplined, vigilant, responsible, and accountable. To fine-tune my skills, movement, posture, myself, and my behaviour. To practice at maintaining my centre and my balance. To practice being calm and at peace in the midst of turmoil. To practice respect and service. To hone my senses and sensitivity. To immerse myself in the movement and the flow that revitalises me and brings me joy. To share the beauty of Aikido to anyone who may be interested and want to learn.

In taking Aikido practice seriously and sincerely, as one improves in learning how to blend and harmonise with each practiced attack, one learns to also become humble, less stubborn, and hopefully a little more receptive. Part of Aikido practice includes being wise too, and listening to the quiet, little voice that nudges you when something may not be quite right. As many mystics and scriptures urge... be still... and know. It is, indeed, a personal journey and why most Aikido dojos practice in silence.

If the mind is filled with criticism, judgement, dissatisfaction, anger, or restlessness, nothing else can be felt or heard beyond that internal noise. That may make finding a way forward, out of a predicament, seem muddled and clouded over.

Through continuous and constant practice in the dojo, the hope is in developing skills to make the best possible objective decision when faced with the given circumstances and with the options available. The preparations we undergo serve to assist through challenging times: to respond consciously, responsibly, and as appropriate a manner as is possible.

No, I don't know what I would have done if I were caught in a crossfire, or faced a barrel of an automatic weapon with nothing but my wit and my hands. We do not wish it on ourselves, nor on anyone else. Even going through military training does not guarantee one would emerge unscathed in the battlefield. I would probably do my best and commit to defending myself and those around me... and should I fall... then I fall.

With gratitude, peace, and harmony,
Rafael Oei Sensei
(© Copyright November 2015: Rafael Oei)

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