Quote:
Francis Takahashi wrote:
The fact that Saotome Sensei has always had the option and capacity of conferring his own ranks on his minions, makes it all the more remarkable that he still honors his students with Aikikai ranking, and with the concomitant direct, ongoing and official connection with the Founder's legacy. Who amongst his students can knowingly doubt his deep sincerity, and dare rebuke his profound reasons for choosing this path?
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Mr. Takahashi,
One must hope that your use of the word "minions," was not a willful attempt to offend but rather, a careless choice, or perhaps a reflexive projection of your own feelings about your own relationship with the Aikikai onto others who -- for historical, cultural, and personal reasons that may be distinct from the basis on which you construe your relationship to the Aikikai -- have a very different view of the situation which is not only (perhaps) no less legitimate than yours, but (certainly) rather more widely shared.
Best regards,
Fred Little