The Acrobat on Skis
The annual USAF Summer Camp came and went like a whirlwind. The five days of practice and gathering with friends have become history. To make the most out of the experience, I encourage students to take mental inventory of what transpired: what they like vs what they dislike, triumphant moments and frustrating incidents. Before their memories fade away, let their experience leave a mark on their journal of growth. A young woman who is ecstatic about Aikido expressed her frustrations: The moment she paired up with someone at camp, they opened their mouth and started giving her instructions. "We just watched the same demo together a moment ago. I am an intelligent, mature adult. Why do they instantly think I need a translation and re-interpretation by them? Why don't they even give me a chance to try?" Her comment brought a sympathetic smile to my face. 🥹 Yeah, I know. For many years, I have lived through the same thing. I st...
