Last weekend I attended the first Gasshuku that I’ve ever participated in. The words “wicked awesome” and “totally badass” don’t adequately convey my feelings on the subject. Honestly though I’m at a loss when it comes to describing the effect that this seminar, or even my study of Aikido as a whole had and has upon me. Being at a loss for words is not something I’m used to.
Japanese kanji for “gasshuku”The problem is that I have difficulty talking about Aikido in general I think. Lots of people have a lot to say about the art, whether they study it or not. But for me there just doesn’t seem like much of a point to talking about Aikido. There is nothing I can say about it that could not be more elegantly expressed on the mat with sweat and effort. The communication on the mat is rather pure, and I can’t do it justice with words. So I won’t.
I will say that I feel quite grateful to have a talented Sensei that cares greatly about maintaining the integrity of the martial aspects of this art. I will say that I’m grateful for my Sempai and their patience with my bumbling and frequently over-eager attempts to grasp things, or my exhaustion after hours on the mat. I’m grateful for the opportunity to practice something I love so much with good and honest people like this. I’m happy to see this community growing, and I’m excited to notice the increase in stamina I’ve been developing at this dojo.
But most of all I’m just happy to be here. This Gasshuku was wonderful, from the sweat on the mat to the beers and conversations shared afterword. I feel quite blessed today.
