The New Years class this year was taught by Yamada Sensei. It was pretty much a normal class except Sensei did some stretches and the rowing exercise instead of just his usual breathing exercises. Afterward we had some wine beer edemame (Japanese soybeans) and rice crackers. The party was pretty much just people talking and laughing. I had fun at first despite the cold creeping into the dojo from outside, but the party lasted till 6 am and by then I was dozing on the couch wishing everyone would leave so I could clean up and go to bed. As an uchi deshi parties aren’t quite as much fun, because if Sensei sees you relaxing too much he’ll make you go wash dishes or do other chores.
Going Back to the Christmas party I didn’t have as much fun there either. I danced a little, but the music was terrible. It was like break-dancing music or else slow depressing stuff. I liked talking with people I hadn’t seen in a while and a few asked about Dee and Jerry. The weather kept a lot of people away.
I didn’t see the black belt tests but they ranged from 8 to 10 minutes each. Much shorter than in Ft. Lauderdale. I think I would prefer a longer test for myself. I’d feel like I’d earned it more with a longer test, but I do agree that 50 minutes is excessive.
All in all its nice that the festivities are over. I took all the decorations down with little help. I can relax now and keep up the job hunt.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Happy new year to you as well! Glad to see that you are having fun. All your other posts are so serious. I was starting to think you had turned serious or something 😛
You know, I never considered the Christmas party from a deshi’s perspective. I’m sorry it wasn’t as fun as you would have liked.
Happy New Year!!
You sound a little beat. I hope you can find a job and get some rest for the new year!
Peace Tonya!
MM
Thanks for the new post, Tonya. Even with a few words, we can begin to appreciate life as a deshi.
There is no free lunch in the universe. Remember that even though you are having to suffer some, it is so that others might be more comfortable. This is the responsibility of a good host. Also, though I’m sure some of the luster has worn off, you also have the rare privelege of living with sensei and training with him, and some of the best aikidoka in the country, every day. After 13 years of consistent training, I’ve yet to visit NY AIkikai and sensei doesn’t know who I am.
When I was in the Boy Scouts we took a big backpacking trip to New Mexico that I had saved for and looked forward to for a year. Out on the trail it was hard and hot and not what I had imagined. Yet in hindsight, it was one of the best trips I ever took. I suspect you are on a similar “trail” and maybe this anecdote will help you keep your chin up.
We’re rooting for you here and wish you the best.
Thanks for the encouragement. I knew going into it that it would be difficult. I was prepared for the physical part. Not so much the nettling of chores at irritating times when I’d rather be relaxing.
Last night I was attempting to convey to Ryan and Maggie (albeit from my very meager and indirect experience) what life must be like for you as a deshi. All I can say is, treasure these moments, even when you’re being nettled for chores.
I would imagine that, as a deshi, you are in a somewhat “masculine” environment. (At least that has been my impression). Dee, although she was never a deshi, experienced many of the things I imagine you must be going through, when she first spent time in NY. You could always talk to her if you’re feeling down.
Having said that, some more encouragement: Go Tonya!
I can’t pretend to know what you are going through, since the few things I have struggled with don’t amount to what you are going through.
That being said, I don’t know of anything that I can say that will help. However, I can give you a few words from a Higher Authority.
I don’t know if you are tired of this whole scripture, Christian, and religion thing yet, but it hasn’t failed me yet, and it won’t hurt to try.
Isaiah 40:31 has grown to be a very common verse these days; you can often see it on refrigerator magnets and journals at Christian book stores. But as common as it is, it hasn’t lost its power. The Word of God never does.