Have patience while walking the path of Aikido there really is no final destination. Study sincerely in the moment for today is what matters. Tomorrow will come all too soon. Reflect in the journey this is the ultimate goal.
You can own a sword, display a sword or collect to sell swords. But the way of the samurai sword is only revealed to the user.
To seek the path of ego within the martial arts will seed jealousy and corruption.
If you study the martial arts with aggression and malice this will eventually bring you to view the world from a fearful place.
To train a life time acquiring skills of self-defence only to seek retribution in the destruction of others becomes a wasted journey; a path of self-destruction.
Learning to receive holds like nikkyo, sankyo, kotegashi etc. Is the study of extending ki out of an arm that is constantly flexible.
Learning to be soft when intimidated is the key to progress. If the ego will not yield to the attackers physical aggression a conflict of the physical to co-exist takes place. This restricts the true concepts of Aikido to be realised.
The enlightened martial artist sees no enemy but the one within.
The ultimate goal of Aikido attained is seeing yourself and the world through eyes that are non-confrontational.
To show compassion is one of the highest values. Strive within your martial art to make this your priority.
