We just got back from an amazing retreat. For over 20 years, our multiple schools have gotten together for a weekend of practice. We had 75 devoted students from all around the country who came together to share their practice and love of the art.
We were fortunate enough to have Sifu Ryan Scott and a group of his students from California, along with Sensei Hurtsellers’ students from Ohio, Sifu Patrick Donahue’s students from Rochester, Michigan, and students from Colorado, Missouri, and other parts of the country come together to make the weekend incredible.
We always have a wide variety of different events and sessions at retreat. We practice everything from Chin Na to sparring and mitts, shields, weapon defense, and jiu-jitsu. The overarching theme is always meditation and how we can take our practice into our every day lives. It is without a doubt, my favorite weekend of the year.
Winning the First Fight
A huge takeaway this year was the idea of winning “the first fight.” This means controlling the impulsive reactions of the mind and having total control of oneself. If you cannot win that “first fight” and be who you want to be, when you want to be that person, you have no chance of winning any other fight.
Of course, fighting is not limited to physical combat. The more important fights come in the form of struggles at work, responsibilities to family, and in everyday life. Breathing and responding well is always the goal. How many negative outcomes have we all had in our lives simply because we did not take the time to win, “the first fight?”
No one is perfect but I know that to the extent that I DO respond well, I have my practice to thank.
Nothing is Done Alone
No matter the drill, nothing is done alone. We are always partners sharing the art. We even meditate and practice Tai Chi together. The community of the dojo is so unique and supportive. Students from all walks of life, varying professions, different abilities, and different ages come together. Each individual contributes to this amazing weekend.
As the saying goes, it takes all 5 fingers to make a fist. Practicing on your own is important, but being with like-minded individuals who share your same passions and goals is revitalizing.
I love our community and I’m so glad you are a part of it. I hope to see new faces who practice in other schools and people who have never practiced a day in their lives next year!
Until next time,
Rudy Makupson