Simple Truths of Weeding

{Weeding my garden this morning, kneeling close to the ground under the Southern California sun, brought about some simple truths— for life, for Aikido. Just like weeding, we are evolving in our Aikido by peeling off, ridding of the extra, and digging deep.}

 

Peace can be found within the work of weeding.

 

Every side has another side: Fallen branches were once climbing toys of squirrels.

 

Use your center to uproot large weeds. We can have a good read on the root's depth once we engage our center as we start pulling. Uprooting must be done with sensitivity, precision, and force—all at the same time.

 

The hard physical work of weeding has its great rewards of breathing Earth's scent and being caressed by sunlight and sweet breezes.

 

‘Let go’ practice in weeding work is very useful.

 

Weeding is usually satisfying, but not always—especially when facing a beautiful yellow dandelion—its only wrongdoing is growing in a wrong spot, or when feeling the pain of thorny weeds, exposing our vulnerability.

 

Sometimes the best power is found in our "weak side". Let the "strong side" learn from it.

Hidden treasures are everywhere. Keeping eyes and heart open bring about great discoveries.

 

Cherish weeding days. There will always be enough weeds, but not as many days.

Why Do I Keep Visiting My Sensei Every Few Weeks?

 By Lee Lavi Ramirez

Life Is Short

Some of my peers have recently lost their teachers, as many of O’Sensei’s students have passed away in the last few years. Although the legacy and strong memory that their teachers have left within them, I can feel their yearning. This is a constant reminder that every moment counts, and every opportunity should be taken, as my teacher continues deepening his study of Aikido. As long as Sensei is here and as long as I am here, this is what Ichi-Go Ichi-E is about, capturing the Now and its offerings.

Learning, learning, learning

It never stops. No matter how long I’ve been a teacher—there is always more to unveil. Keeping my hunger and seeking into my study—and learning simply happens. Looking up to the finest resource, my Sensei, takes me on a journey of discovery, and unravels my evolution as a martial artist.

Continue Being Inspired

My teacher is an ever-changing master of Aikido. He is a true seeker of the Way, who is training daily on the mat. Sensei is a living example of pure research of the path of Aikido. His total dedication and one-pointedness are rare. Seeing Sensei walking this path is inspiring beyond words, it uplifts my spirit.

Benefits of Long Term Teacher-Student Relationships

Long term relationships have their friction; the friction of time. In a world that tempts hopping from one thing to the next, this option is not always easy. It is where the rubber meets the road. I know that the most enlightening lessons in my life were derived from this friction—and as so, I protect this wellspring, amidst its intense nature. It is priceless.

Sharing the Passion

Having students is what makes me a teacher. Every time I am back from visiting Sensei, I carry something for our Dojo members. I am not sure as for what it is exactly, although they feel it, and I can see it in their training. A gift is being passed from one student of the art to the next, precious and exciting.

Because of Love

Amoris amor creates, Love creates love. When one loves what they do, it is catching on to others, and the ripple grows. Love is something we do, not just say. The work of love is done by deeds, and by being present. For my love of Aikido was so often fired up by my teacher, visiting Sensei, as often as I possibly can, is one physical expression of this love—perhaps the clearest one of them all.

Written with deep gratitude to my teacher, I. Shibata Sensei

Lee Lavi Ramirez is the chief instructor of North Valley Aikikai, and has been training Aikido under Shibata Sensei for the past 22 years.