Thanks for the encouragement from both you and your Sensei, Kelly --- sorry I missed that post; things have been so hectic playing "catch up" with work that I haven't been dwelling on AikiWeb much these days. I'll try to find it right away. I don't know if it was so much "not feeling ready" as it was just "stage fright" --- although I've done a lot of performing in the past (mostly musical, and as part of a group) as well as a great deal of solo public speaking over the past 16 years, I had never before had to do something completely physical all by myself for an "official audience". I think that I was more afraid of messing up when it mattered most than anything else. Thankfully, all I needed was just to really breathe --- that got me right in focus (instead of thinking, "eek! I'm being watched and evaluated!") and let my body just do it's thing. My friend really is great; she's the kind of mentor who asks more questions than she gives answers, and thus lets you figure things out for yourself --- a method that I highly respect. I'm also proud to say that just the other day at work, I was also able to return the favour and also give her some words of encouragement as well.

I agree with your friend. Read comment in your third last post from me. BTW my sensei concurs. Relax, have fun, and come back as a Gokyu. You have a highly respected, and extremely talented Sensei. He wouldn't let you test if he didn't think you were ready. Kelly