I am always learning kendo! I have been a member of Seattle Kendo Kai since the beginning as that is where my grandfather was one of the original sensei and the central location for kendo in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. I practiced at all of the dojo in the area during my teens, especially Tacoma. Some of the sensei I learned from are sadly gone but we have been fortunate to have the benefit of their wisdom, compassion and experience. Of course, I am deeply indebted to those strong sensei that continue to challenge me to give my best. We have such a wealth of strong kendo in this area to learn from but I also try and practice with guests and visit Japan when I can.

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I believe in the many things that I was taught when I was young, and still continue to learn. A few of them include these thoughts. “Whoever holds a shinai is my friend.” “You need at least two people to practice kendo.” (Value your fellow kenshi) Anyone that is able to practice for however short a time can gain tremendously by that experience and it is up to us that continue to enjoy kendo to help others also gain something that kendo has to offer. Of course, I believe kendo is like both a mirror and a piece of glass. It shows your best and worst to yourself and you cannot hide your true self on the dojo floor.

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Kendo reveals things in crystal clarity. I always strive hard to continue learning even as I share my own experience with others and they share theirs with mine. The true sensei are anyone that gives their best as they share the dojo floor. Kendo helps us be the best we can be in life to our family, friends and fellow humans.