September 4th , 2016

This week's thought is from Sensei Kevin Reymond

Denshi Shihan, Ueshiro Downtown Shorin Ryu Karate Dojo

Of the mind/Do not be mindless

Onegai-shimasu Hanshi, Kyoshi, Shihan, and USRKUSA Deshi,

In chapter 17 of Master Funakoshi's "The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate - The Spiritual Legacy of the Masters", he shares the following song composed by Takuan Soho:

It is the very mind itself

That leads the mind astray;

Of the mind,

Do not be mindless.

Master Funakoshi explains: " 'Of the mind/Do not be mindless' points to the necessity of developing the deeper reaches of the mind - of the self - that work to suppress and quiet the deluded mind". The cultivation of this quiet mind results in "open minded composure" and one that is calm or free of agitation particularly when addressing circumstances that confront us.

Hanshi provides further insight on page 114 of "Building Warrior Spirit" wherein he provides, "When striving to go beyond one’s limits in order to accomplish a goal the four precepts [Gan/Soku/Tanden/Riki] form a foundation and method of approach. Beyond the physical is the metaphysical which takes us one step further. The realization that there is more to life than that which can be seen translates into achievement. This strategy is acquired on the deck. We do one more kata when we thought we had no more left within ourselves. This principle is carried over and weaves the fabric of life."

As Ueshiro Shorin Ryu karateka it is incumbent upon us to train not only our body but our mind and spirit as well. Master Funakosi and Hanshi have provided valuable guidance in this respect. The rest is up to us.

Sensei Kevin Reymond

Denshi Shihan, Ueshiro Downtown Shorin Ryu Karate Dojo

Under the direction of Hanshi Robert Scaglione