Tomorrow

What does it mean to "test"?

Especially when you're studying a martial art. I've been putting off my nikyu (2nd) test for aikido. Not because of any stress or fear...

Unless I come back to Boulder at some point, this will probably be my first and only test in front of Ikeda sensei. Some are of the opinion that the test is actually your gift back to the dojo. A "thank you" saying how much you've appreciated the training. The more generous the gift, the more clean and spirited your demostration should be.


That is really the only apprehension I have about this. The dojo and Ikeda sensei have provided such an enjoyable place to train and explore that I really do want to leave a generous gift.