If I know today what I knew Yesterday –
My post has been inspired by members of Bujinkan Dojo Italia. This past Feb, 2010 I had the pleasure of traveling to Italy to train with many good heart people who’s only desire was to train and create an international community.
So much has changed since the beginning of 2010. As mentioned above, I got to visit Italy – change training nights from Friday to Thursday nights at our new location. Unfortunately I missed my annual trip in March to Japan. Moved into a great apartment in New Jersey – no longer a resident of New York City although I’ll always be a New Yorker.
Training has taken on a new perspectives in terms of my attitude and approach to training. Regarding the picture above – it was taken in Verona is I’m not mistaken – and if I’m mistaken, please forgive me. I arrived on Thursday morning the 25th of February in Venice. Thursday night I trained in Verona with an amazing group of people who welcomed me with enthusiasm and openminds. This group patiently accepted my vision and allowed me to train to the best of my ability and with jet-lag. The three instructors were sandbagged (forced) into teaching that weekend. They proved to be ready for advancement to the next grade. They’ve since visit Hungary for training this past May, hosted Ed Martian “Papa-san” and planning a Japan trip for the fall.
Since moving around our training days and with a few students leaving has allow us to start from zero. I’m happy with this transition for the time being. Presently the dojo is not an open source – anyone interested in training has to speak with me first to get permission. We meet every Thursday at 6pm for two hours.
This past Thursday we reviewed “Renyo” from the Gyokko Ryu. The week prior it was koku. The starting point is from shizen no kamae rather then ichimonji no kamae (traditionally). Don’t remember much of the philosophy – however the physical aspect has more significance then the philosophy at this time – almost a week later. I’ll try to post more often, preferably following class while everything is fresh.
The website will soon be updated – seminars for the summer. Lot’s of training opportunities. Duncan Stewart will be in town this July – August.
Favorite quote –
“You are not your ideas, not even your thoughts. You are the self who experiences them”.
Anthony Lucas
