Thursday
afternoon we arrived in paris for what was going
to be a event that woud change the live of myself
for many reasons. Firstly I was to meet up with
5 friends that Ihad met in japan. Secondly the
famous Togakure ryu was being taught. The method
of teaching explained why we should train the
way we do. Thirdly I met Cedric. Anyone who has
met him does not need me to describe him. To anyone
else you can only meet him to understand him.
God bless you Cedric for being you. Forthly I
was regraded. Fithly I also learnt many lessons
from Europes best. Sixth I had met some new friends.
What have I learnt. Only that there are many roads
up the same mountain and some are more painful
and some are harder. Which path should we take?
The one you are ready for.
4 Days of training can be quite taxing but I recommend
it to everyone as you see different teachers teaching
to all levels leaving you wanting more.
What
was taught, well I dont know what the green and
black belts were taught separately ( and so a
dvd will help) but the teachers were taught ideas
and principles that I am yet to understand about
directing your intention. An intelligent teacher
once told me "money in the bank for the future".
We learnt many sword katas and their development.
we were told about armour. We were explained Menkyo
Kaiden and donut theory and squid theory. Intention
perception was touched upon (thanks cedric). Several
techniques from the Santo Tonko Kata were covered
and expanded upon and the basics in the togakure
ryu style were performed on the monday session.
One
of the many memorable moments I will remember
is the grading ceremony which has touched me.
The Buyu spirit was seen and the emotions were
also seen. Thank you guys for this warmth shown.
The
evening proceeding were very insightful in getting
to know more buyu.
Thank you for all those wonderful conversations.
The
knowledge gained has made me look at my training
yet again and so
Thank
you Arnaud Peter Pedro and Sven.
