The Secret Revealed.

Dydd Llun, chweched, Ionawr 2014   Monday 6th. January 2014 

That falling down business; it is not always your fault; sometimes other people trip you up; either way……………

The Secret Revealed.

A young aikidoka was fortunate to attend a seminar given at his dojo by a renowned Japanese master who was visiting the U.S.A. The student was, at that time, the holder of a first kyu (brown belt). The visiting shihan made a huge impression on the young man.

Some years later, after the student had achieved promotion to Nidan (2^nd. Dan), it was announced that this great teacher was, once again, coming to teach a seminar at the student’s dojo. His instructor, who was unable to meet the Aikido master’s flight, asked the Second Dan if he would do so. The student readily agreed and picked up the shihan and his luggage from the airport. (Not literally, of course)

They had quite a long journey back, during which, the young man was eager to ask a question of this highly respected teacher. It was not until they stopped at a roadside diner that he summoned the courage to ask if he was permitted to pose a question. ‘Of course you may’, replied the master.

‘Well, your Aikido technique is so dynamic, so flowing and harmonious; what is the secret to attaining such skill and understanding?’.

The master replied, ‘Ah, so you want to know the secret? Very well. Today, you go to the dojo and practise. Tomorrow, you go to the dojo and practise. The day after that, you go to the dojo and practise. And the next day, you go to the dojo and practise……’

You could tell from the quizzical look on the young aikidoka’s face that he had not yet realised that he was being told, ‘There is no secret…..just keep turning up….’