This weekend was the Ikeda Sensei's spring seminar in Boulder. I drove up Friday night and after dressing out, got on the mat and warmed up. Ikeda Sensei started with warm-ups and then he talked how this weekend seminar fees were being donated to the Japan Relief Society for the Earthquake and Tsunami.
My memories and experiences blend together in all three days of the seminar. With the focus on Ikeda Sensei on connecting with uke, even before actual physical engagement, that even mentally and physically taking the better vector into and through uke's balance. Ikeda Sensei spent more time explaining the technical and classical physical explanations on why breaking balance works, that being martial allows the smaller and the weaker to overcome the bigger, younger, and more physically powerful.
My other great memories from the seminar are working with and learning from all of the great Aikidora from Boulder, Denver, and the surrounding area. Some of the senior students of Boulder Aikikai; Alan, Laura, Troy, and more, all challenge me and know more about what Ikeda Sensei is teaching us during these internal Aikido seminars. Their experience and maturity reflect the richness of knowledge and teaching ability of Ikeda Sensei.
On Sunday, the last day of the Seminar, Ikeda Sensei stopped class early and after retrieving a couple of things from his office, returned and formally presented me with Shodon certificate and Yudansha passport and cards. After the beautiful morning that started with snow and was still cold, I was truely honored and priveledged to receive my first Yudansha ranking from this great teacher and student of Aikido, from whom I have learned so much and hope to continue for as long as he is able, Ikeda Sensei.
Thank-you Sensei.
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