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Old 05-13-2011, 11:46 AM   #3
Janet Rosen
 
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Location: Left Coast
Join Date: May 2002
Posts: 4,339
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Re: Jeff Fox passes on

I was Jeff's student from the start of 1996 through half of 1997. I walked into his class with no real idea of what aikido was as distinct from any other martial art. He was incredibly patient with this older, awkward beginner, yet never condescending. When it was clear I was terrified to forward roll, he didn't bat an eyelash but started me on suwariwaza shomenuchi ikkyo and katatetori sumiotoshi and let me approach rolling in my own time. His approach casually assumed that I would succeed, and this was so consistent a message that I seemed to internalize it: despite having no innate talent and having to work hard every step of the way, it never occurred to me to stop showing up. It would have been incredibly easy to blow me off as not worth the effort, or to let a stray comment or even gesture shatter my self-confidence.

Jeff deserves full credit for starting me on the path that has so enriched my life. I hope the years were kind to him and his passing swift and merciful.

Janet Rosen
http://www.zanshinart.com
"peace will enter when hate is gone"--percy mayfield
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