Thankfully, the "Aikido Warriors' Camp" has lasted ten years. When I initially designed it, not only was it to introduce the then little known Japanese martial art, Aikido, to the local Gordon Head/Mt. Doug community, I had also intended to incorporate mini sessions and games during the camp to introduce self-reflection and self-awareness: being consciously mindful to assimilate the movements and techniques involved.

The samurai-warrior spirit is also reflected on; who, in the service of a feudal lord, is aware of the transience of life, preparing always for death while enhancing and improving his martial skills and himself in order to provide the best service possible. Living a fulfilling life without regrets. Like the person who has been told they only have months, weeks or days to live. Accepting the inevitability of death changes one's perspective of life that result in (hopefully) better, conscious and more focused choices. It is in the observance of the discipline that keeps us in good practice.

I think about death all the time, but not as a morbid fascination. Just recently, I had the delight of watching the movie and reading the book "Heaven is for real." "Proof of Heaven" is the other interesting read. To be sure, there are many books on the after life and near death experiences, and how the experience has changed the author's life. Sometimes I wonder how something so simple can be made so complicated.

As the scout motto goes: "Be prepared!"

While still on our break from classes, I trust you are helping around the house, reading good books, spending time with your parents, laughing, playing games, sharing music, singing and dancing together... and perhaps... maybe practicing some Jo and Bokken Suburi as well.

"Life itself is truth..." : "Life" in its largest and most universal context. There are no secrets.

Enjoy the rest of Summer, and see you in September.

In peace and harmony,
Rafael Oei Sensei.
(© Copyright August 2014: Rafael Oei)

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