Acknowledging a problem and not taking action to resolve it suggests indifference and an unwillingness to learn: an opportunity to improve and exercise responsibility that is lost.

Meeting each week to practice in the Dojo, we do just that - practice familiar movements and techniques repeatedly to find the gaps and to improve ourselves in a safe, controlled environment.

Personal weaknesses are revealed through conscious, diligent practise with your Aikido partner. Attack - respond, attack - respond, attack - respond...

Do you close the gaps in your technique? How alert are you now? Are you able to execute a technique with ease and balance? Has your posture improved? Do you heed sensei's advice on how to improve movements, extensions, or taking Ukemi? Are the names of movements and techniques more familiar to you now? How well can you blend effortlessly with the attack from your partner? Has your manners, outlook, and etiquette improved? Are you more patient? Are you more conscious, responsible, and punctual in your daily life? Are you more respectful of your parents and elders?

O Sensei suggests reflection. Reflection is personal and inward looking. It requires silence and sincerity. Some avoid silent reflection for fear of what may be discovered about oneself.

Recognising a "gap" is an opportunity for growth and improvement. Resolve it, apply it, own it, and reflect on it; then let go of it and go onto the next step - and the next level of growth.

See you in the Dojo.

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

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