“The Samurai is the first to suffer anxiety for human society, and he is the last to seek any personal pleasure.”

I think this is at the core of what it means to be a budoka (one who studies the martial way), which is where your Aikido training can lead. One can train in Aikido and learn many useful and life-saving skills, but if one so desires it can lead to a much deeper understanding and appreciation of life and one’s purpose in this world.

I’d like to think that my training has helped mold me into a type of person that O’Sensei was hoping would help the world because of my words and actions. As a result of my training I try to look for ways to lift others up and help whenever I can. I try to live according to the above Shodo. It’s difficult to put others before myself or to limit how much I indulge for my own pleasure. I believe we are meant to enjoy life, which includes an endless struggle with finding a balance between enjoying life and being there for others. I’m a work in progress, but my training and my time spent with all of you constantly gives me fuel to keep trying.

Peace to you.

Teresa Mastison Sensei