Everyone had only one thing on their minds, Grading. We didn’t
train over the weekend like normal because I had other family commitments. I
was eager to make sure I had all the techniques properly ingrained into my
muscles. I visualised a lot over the weekend but I was sceptical that it would
have improved my style and as I rushed to the Dojo after working late I did my best
not to bring the stress with me into the Dojo.
The warm-ups were already underway as I put my bag down and
joined the group. We didn’t beat around the bush much and went straight into
Syllabus. I gave my friend fist option to practice his weapons. He seemed a
little tens and he struggled a bit with his flow. The Sensei came around a
couple of times and we discussed different alternatives to the movements. The
sensei even asked my opinion on a suggestion. I felt humbled that this man, a
ten year veteran and second dan black-belt, felt that I could add anything to
what he just said.
The Sempai and another long time student were practicing
multiples with another Sensei. They kept encroaching on our training space and
even bumped into the Sensei once. They decided to put the boxing cloves on, but
the Sempai didn’t have much boxing experience so his opponent went easy on him.
I noticed this and asked what was going on. The student told me in abusive language
that I wouldn’t enjoy such liberties if I chose to box against him… For a
moment I was back in the school yard and the towering bully were swinging his
fist at me. I smiled at his comment and turned away, I came to prepare for the
grading…
I grabbed my Bo and squared off with my partner. I was once
again centred and totally focused. Every move and every strike was perfectly
placed. I had total control over the Bo, every muscle was conditioned and my
mind was silent. The sensei seemed very happy and I felt a 100% confident. We
went back to the Tonfa for my partners benefit. We worked on a couple of
techniques and I tried to demonstrate with my left hand. The sensei came round
again and asked why I was using my left hand. We explained to him that my
partner is left-handed and he also jumped in to try and work out the technique from
the left hand. At the end of the evening my friend seemed a lot more at ease
and confident.
It’s going to be an interesting grading with five odd
students grading till seventh kyu and my
friend and I going all the way up to
3rd kyu. Needless to say that all eyes will be on us…
Embrace the shadows.
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