Ego
I was chatting with a younger Aikido instructor about teaching. He expressed his worries about having some big and strong students in class. I can totally understand the apprehension. I was once intimidated by traning partners bigger than me, too. Compared to Hong Kong where I came from, there are many, many more big people in the US! Recently, I heard that a sempai stopped teaching for the same reason. So, he is not alone. Me: Tell me: What exactly are you worried about? Y: I worry that I cannot move the big guys. When that happens, sometimes I cannot control myself and end up using more force than I should. Me: Could it have to do with your sense of insecurity within? Remember that the goal of your practice is not about throwing your uke, but to be able to do the set of movements you intended to do. Y: I know, I know, but I cannot help it. Me: Why is moving the big guy so important? Y: Hmm, maybe I am ...
