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So my name is Mark. I train and practice Aikido. Have done for nearly five years, with it's ups and downs.
I don't believe that I started Aikido for the ''wrong reasons'', much like many other people. I began this adventurous path as I wanted something in my life to focus on, to feel a sense of achievement and purpose, not to learn how to beat someone up. Although Initially my aim was to speed through the ranks and be the best Aikidoka and technician in my club, to be able to ''roll with the big guys'', how misguided I was(am).
''There is something to be learned from a rainstorm. When meeting with a sudden shower, you try not to get wet and run quickly along the road. But doing such things as passing under the eaves of houses, you still get wet. When you are resolved from the beginning, you will not be perplexed, though you still get the same soaking''
I wish that I had realized that this path we have all chosen, is not about getting to Dan grades, being the best, having the best Irimi or Kote. I feel that Budo is lost in modern day Aikido, I think that if we (generalization) focus more on O'sensei's teachings about Budo, Spiritual teachings and how to interact properly with one another, our Aikido will be better for it.
Only a lowly second kyu who's opinions are probably highly conceited and controversial. My blog will most likely contain moans and groans of the situation our Club is in after the loss of our Club founder and Sensei. More on that later.
Comments welcome, criticism needed and views valued.
Thanks for taking time to read this introduction.
Mark.