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Old 07-02-2008, 09:56 AM   #9
jennifer paige smith
 
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Re: O'Sensei's Videos

Quote:
Ani Forbes wrote: View Post
Then let me add "the only true aikido"

A list of the principles of aikido? while not complete, how is this?
1. Use your opponents energy.
2. Use movements that are grounded at your center.
3. Movements are usually circular and spiral.
4. centrifugal momentum is important.
5. Don't use force to move your opponent.
6. timing is important.

I'm sure that other arts have similar principles, but...

catholics and protestants are both christians, even if it "looks" different.

I guess it's sad that things have to be defined by what they're not instead of what they are. Is it really necessary to have a cut and clear list of what aikido is?
O Sensei pointed to the model of nature constantly to speak of what aiki is. Yet hardly anyone is willing to consider this. Maybe because it isn't fighting or man made it gets the shrift. I read and read, looking at folks wrestle with the same ideas without the inclusion of natural observation and I watch them stay put in their thinking. I watch myself the same way, at times.
When we can include the model of nature in our conversation we can talk about what it is and not what it is not: just like peace.
And, one more thought, OSensei let us know that aiki exists in many people and places by his expanded definition. It is only up to us to figure out why and then learn how.

Jennifer Paige Smith
Confluence Aikido Systems
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