Encounters with Calligraphy

Tonight I was able to watch Kazuaki Tanahashi give a calligraphy demonstration while reminiscing about Osensei. Tanahashi had a very natural and calm presence that reminded me of Anno Sensei. He was relaxed and deliberate in his actions. It was apparent that he has trained in the art of calligraphy for years from the gentle way he dipped and drained his brushes to the fluidity and confidence with which his strokes touched the paper. His choice of color was intriguing to me, he blended colors, letting them boldly mark the page, then intermingle and fade as his work continued. Then he would also chose single colors or black for other pieces. His incredible work surrounded him, punctuating the dojo. Some we incredibly mesmerizing in their simplicity which somehow contained infinite complexity. This piece, called "Miracle of Each Moment" is fiery yet elegant. This open circle has inexplicably gripped me!

Sensei also allowed people to make requests. It was interesting to see what different people chose and how they were executed. In the dojo in Santa Cruz there is a calligraphy that is often referred to: True Victory is Victory Over Oneself, Masa Katsu A Yatsu (I think). Tanahashi said that it may also be interpreted as "winning is truly winning." It is helpful for me to think of this phrase as a way to remind myself that I am not in competition with others, but that we are each working our way toward becoming the light we truly wish to see in the world. Therefore in order to continue allowing this concept to guide me, for it's complexity to continue unfolding for me, I decided to request it:

Sensei commented that Osensei used to say this phrase often. It was defiantly the most character-filled piece of any he painted this night. Other beautiful ones included deep connection, grace, water/fire, and visible (the eye has two feet) which also included reference to the invisible.
I enjoyed hearing about the importance Osensei placed on a sincere attack, on his vision of taking care of your enemy. I loved how Tanahashi's face light up when he recalled the rapidity with which Osensei could trim rice stalks. I asked if there was a connection between Aikido and agriculture, as Osensei had farmed for periods of time. According to Tanahashi, it was viewed as a necessity, but also as a way to practice body movement.
Tanahashi did not train with Osensei for an extended period of time, but it is apparent that both he and his father were moved by the experience, which continues to shape them. Tanahashi is currently working toward "A World Without Armies," a non-profit organization he is part of. He says he often thinks of his time with Osensei to learn the core principles that will help to shape a more peaceful world. I sincerely hope he does not mind my inclusion of his principles nor artwork here . . . they are rich in their depth, and I think important to share:

Four Commonplace Truths: Principles of Engagement
1. No situation is impossible to change.
2. A communal vision, outstanding strategy, and sustained effort can bring forth positive changes.
3. Everyone can help make a difference.
4. No one is free of responsibility.

Ten Laws of Breakthrough

Breakthrough is a sudden and overwhelming unfolding of freedom from long-held limitations. Breakthrough makes what seems impossible possible.

1. Breakthrough may or may not occur. The result is unpredictable and how it happens mysterious. All we can do is work towards breakthrough.
2. Some breakthroughs are life-affirming and others destructive.
3. The chance for breakthroughs increases when the objective and general process are clearly stated.
4. The chance for breakthrough increases when the blocks are clearly identified.
5. The smaller the objective is, the larger the chance is for breakthrough.
6. An effective, intense, and continuous effort builds a foundation for breakthrough.
7. The more forces are combined, the larger is the chance for breakthrough.
8. The greater the objective is, the easier it is to bring together force for breakthrough.
9. The chance for breakthrough increases when more attention is directed to the process than the goal.
10. Nonattachment is a crucial element for breakthrough.

Tanahashi Sensei gave as an example of the way Osensei had a simpler time confusing the attackers and using them against one-another when there were many, such as #7. He also said that he though Aikido was a way in which one could seek breakthroughs. The night gave rise to many beautiful images and many more thoughts, which I think I will be unpacking for a while, like most things in Aikido . . .

A trait expressed by Tanahasi Sensei that I found remarkable was his confidence yet lightness in movement and his connection to the page (with brush and focus) that extended as long as the brush strokes remained. It was a living example of full committedness to an action as well as lovely and complete follow-through, seemingly without hesitation or judgement, until there all that remained of the event was a gem lying at the edge of the cloth he was working on-- like a ripple of energy that expands into space, just a beutifulhint of the intention and grace that had imbued what had just occurred.

I was also privileged to have dinner with Jack Wada Sensei, visiting from San Jose, and other wonderful friends. We delved into discussions about the course Aikido is taking and its potential paths in the future, the difference between communal versus individual training, and the importance of journey over destination. It was affirming to hear Jack Sensei express many ideas I have been coming to, but also give them his own spin which comes from years of experience and reflection. As I was the only woman at this gathering, I was told about to the sexism many early women Aikido pioneers faced in Japan, and began to understand the long way women have coming in becoming a dynamic, respected and most welcome/embraced part of Aikido. Thank you to all the incredible women who have paved the way for me to have two women dojo-chos as my first Senseis. I look forward to training with Jack Sensei at Tenchi Aikido tomorrow morning.