Recently I had the great fortune of practicing with Shodai Kenji Sensei during his visit to some of the local dojo in Seattle.  My bout with him was two minutes long.  My feet were already a wreck with blisters received just days before, and I had already practiced with several very energetic people before hand.  Still, for that two minutes I gave him everything I had.  The match went as expected.  I got in a few hits, he got in a lot more.  He was fast, in control, and very accurate.

From the videos I’ve watched on YouTube, I’ve always admired Shodai’s kendo, especially for the energy that he brings to the match.  Meeting him, I was also struck by his attentiveness, his presence of mind, and his compassion.  Without really getting to know him, I have the impression that he is a genuinely pleasant individual.

The practice was informative to a degree, but moreover it solidified and reiterated a number of technical points that I already knew and needed to be reminded of.  What I really took away from the practice was a great deal of inspiration.

Shodai reminded me of me (just younger and better looking ).  Not as I am now, but as I would like to be and of how much can be achieved.  He reminded me of why I started Jodan in the first place, why I continued in the face of great obstacles, and why I just won’t quit.

I’m looking at the future a little differently now.  I know where I want to be and how I want to get there.  I’m full of the sort of fire and optimism I had when I was Ikkyu and just starting jodan.

Thank you Shodai Sensei, for a rigorous, inspirational practice!