In a few weeks I will be returning to teach in Europe after a break of almost three years due to the worldwide pandemic. Throughout the three years we endeavored to maintain practical contact via bi-monthly Zoom seminars. It is a credit to all of those that helped produce the seminars and those that regularly attended them that we can offer live seminars so quickly after each country’s restrictions have loosened. There will be seminars in Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands. One can find more information about these seminars under the “seminars” menu on the main page of TrueAiki.com. I am eagerly looking forward to seeing old friends and training together live again!
I have been lucky in that prior to the pandemic we constructed a covered, open air training space in which to practice. During even the most stringent safety measures, we were able to continue to train in the open air, masked, at a safe distance (with weapons) and, when available, vaccinated. In this way, I am pleased to say, no one training here caught COVID and we maintained practice, research, and development throughout the entire period.
Due to our ongoing training, continuous progress, growth, and understanding were achieved. Dnd due to that, and the combination of retirement and a focus on improving my overall physical fitness, I am more ready and eager than ever to get out and share.
Regardless of the challenges that the future holds, it will also hold untold opportunities. I continue to enjoy the wisdom of Chuck Clark’s advice, “Don’t quit. Don’t die.” That lets us know what NOT to do. To this I would add what TO do, “Keep pursuing that which brings joy.”*
Not quitting, not dying, and doing what you love may be challenging. It may require creativity and extraordinary effort. But if one is not-quitting, dying, and pursuing that which gives joy, all associated efforts will be filled with meaning. Even one’s suffering will be meaningful. Which is to say, one’s life will be meaningful. And THAT is a wonderful gift.
*Assuming “that which gives joy” doesn’t bring suffering others.
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