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PRESENTATION OF HAKAMA CELEBRATION
PRESENTATION OF HAKAMA CELEBRATION
January 18, 2010
On Monday, 18 January 2010, both Alex Lau and Tony Cumby were presented with their hakamas. They are the first two shodans of Fudoshin Aikikai. For new shodans, a particular evening is set aside at Fudoshin Aikikai. It is understood by us that the promotion to shodan and the wearing of the hakama is special and warrants a dignified celebration. The ceremony on January 18th was presided over by the three senior instructors – Kevin McDonald (Godan, Shidoin), Bill McDonald (Yondan, Shidoin), and Michael Clair (Sandan). The presentation of hakamas took place at the beginning of a regular one and one-half hour class. Bill McDonald spoke briefly on the particular qualities and requirements that qualify one for the rank of shodan. He focused his remarks first and foremost on the concept of “shoshin”. He went on to include the importance of a particular level of knowledge of techniques and the technical refinement of techniques; the personal contribution to the dojo and most particularly the overall attitude and personal attributes of what should constitute being a shodan. Kevin McDonald Sensei, Chief Instructor, spoke briefly also. He dwelt largely on the history and meaning of the hakama, the significance of the pleats and the virtues they represented in the past. He continued to elaborate on how those virtues of budo are quite as relevant today as they were in days gone by. It was a delightful evening and excitement filled the air. There was a sense of exhilaration and rejuvenation. The presentation was followed up by a vigorous and enthusiastic practice with a noticeable prevailing exuberance and happiness in the dojo. Congratulations to both Alex Lau and Tony Cumby.
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