Thomas Osborn
08-27-2010, 09:50 AM
8/27/10 w,w,f [0s, 12-1v] A Classes have ranged from 12 vets to just one today. Most days I had 3-4 fairly serious regulars. I spoke with a staff and he said the problem is that a lot of the current group “blew out” of the program in the first and second week. He said some groups have a lot of vets with some real, major problems. As supportive as the program and staff are, some guys can’t deal with one or more of the conditions or treatments.
In some ways the small groups allow me to personalize what and how I teach. I have been able to build some relationships that kind of allow me to use teaching a technique a certain way to ease someone through a personal issue. It is difficult, because I not only have to focus on the technique I want to teach, I have to be relaxed and centered enough to be sensitive to where each guy is, not just in technical ability, but emotional condition as well.
As difficult as this may be, it seems to be helping my own Aikido as well. Sort of what I am giving out is an investment on which I am getting a significant return. I wish I could do as well with my finances.
(Original blog post may be found here (http://ptsd-veterans.blogspot.com/2010/08/getting-return-on-investment.html).)