Remembering Francis Takahashi
He kept telling me to call him Francis. I’d manage it in the moment, but it didn’t feel right. I would always eventually revert to … Read more …
reflections
Getting Quiet for 15 Minutes Can Change Your Life — A Meditation Story
A couple of years into Aikido training I was sitting in silent meditation with Sensei and several dojomates before class, lights dimmed, eyes closed. This … Read more …
Day Zero – Ready to Go!
Posting on Wednesday morning – still at home – about Monday and Tuesday, May 29/30 Preparing – packing – open mat – last minute rush … Read more …
From Nidan To Sandan — A Winding Path
Note: I do write actual books, both about Aikido and about fitness. But this isn’t a real book. There’s only Chapter 10. The rest is … Read more …
My 13th Aikiversary
May 5th, 2022 – Celebrating 13 years of Aikido. I started training on May 5th, 2009. It’s been a mind-blowing, breathtaking, life-changing, awesome experience. Endless … Read more …
2020 Hindsight — Thoughts at The Solstice
Well, there’s nothing like a deadline. I started several versions of this post over the past few months, but always got sidetracked or overwhelmed by … Read more …
Nidan Essay: There’s No Waiting
“There’s your trot.” “Now.” Mark stood in the center of the south end of the arena, near the barn. His long oilskin duster and cowboy … Read more …
After a Firestorm
After a Firestorm By Linda Eskin Flat gray rings of former trees dapple the black hills. Angry chainsaw growls and purposeful shouting replace the stunned … Read more …
How Is It Already August? (or, On Turning 55)
Last Tuesday we flipped the dojo calendar to the new month, and I or someone said something to the effect of “How is it already … Read more …
Cedar Fire – San Diego County, 2003
In the quiet hours before dawn 13 years ago I got a call from my friend Sandra. She lives in the community just up the hill from us. … Read more …
