What Emerges From Conflict?

Graffiti in a city

In This Moment, A Great Battle is Being Fought. At stake is human dignity and sovereignty, and responsibility – to oneself and to one another. It is easy to descend into wrath, disgust, or apathy – anything to alleviate the discomfort of these events. And in doing so, you would lose ground in this battle.…

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Hold Your Breath

Focus, Intention, and the Value in the Pause. “Breathe in,” Sensei said as he raised his sword to the sky, aligning it with his midline as if it were a lightning rod. “Imagine drawing energy down this line, to concentrate it here,” the sword sunk into a ready position, held at the hara, the physical…

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Don’t Be a Destroyer

Practicing peace amidst conflict

There is another way. Recently, I was introducing Aikido to a student who came to try out the Kids Aikido class. While practicing our basic tai no henko, he looked at me and asked, “and then do you break their arm?” He was not joking, nor did he show any hint of malice. It’s not…

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Clearing Cobwebs

Seedling Blowing In the Breeze

More than any other chore, I enjoy dusting and sweeping. It’s simple, relaxing, powered only by my body and a simple hand tool. No spraying or scrubbing, no loud noises. That doesn’t mean I do it more often. Dusting never seems as urgent as dishes, or laundry, so I tend to neglect it. This week…

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