Tuesday, June 20, 2023

Message from Brad and the senior members of the dojo

Congratulations to everyone who attended the seminar.  We had excellent results in the embu and shinza and Mikhail Sensei was very happy with our large group supporting his seminar.


Now that the seminar is over we wanted to build of what Mikhail Sensei said on Shinza day.

The test itself is not just the waza but your behaviour throughout the entire seminar.  In truth this extends well  beyond the seminar and into the home dojo.


For new KR members we will gradually increase our expectations of you as we pass on more of the formal ettiquete. Remember we are more than just a UBC activity.  Kokusai Renmei is an organization built upon a long lineage of instruction with Reishiki (ettiquete) as a core component of the art.


We must all aim to speak well of each other and other dojo and always be supportive of peoples learning.  We must also remember that there are strict expectations within formal portions of practice such as Shinza and Embu (and the rest of the seminar).  How you listen to the instructions your are provided by organizers, and present yourself (both personality and dressing respectfully) are considered for future promotions.  You may not receive direct feedback at the Seminar (feedback often comes to the senior members) but we will work to help everyone learn the expectations as you progress in your Iaido journey.  We train to improve ourselves and develop character through the study of Iaido.


And always remember that if you ever have an uncomfortable experience with another member talk to Peter, Vince, myself or any senior you are comfortable speaking with and we will address the issue directly and anonymously. The Vancouver Eishin Ryu Iaido club aims to foster a genuine community and camaraderie among our membership. No toxicity will be accepted in this club. With your help we will continue this club as a supportive environment.


Thanks again to everyone who made this a great seminar.


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