LEARNING FROM OTHER ARTS
The Founder of Aikido had very clear ideas about Martial Arts practice. Once, when asked by senior students about the guidelines for Aikido practice here is what he wrote:

"1. Aikido decides life and death in a single strike, so students must carefully follow the instructor's teaching and not compete to see who is the strongest.

2. Aikido is the way that teaches how one can deal with several enemies. Students must train themselves to be alert not just to the front but to all sides and back.

3. Training should always be conducted in a pleasant and joyful atmosphere.

4. The instructor teaches only one small aspect of the art. Its versatile applications must be discovered by each student through incessant practice and training.

5. In daily practice first begin by moving your body and then progress to more intensive practice. Never force anything unnaturally or unreasonably. If this rule is followed, then even elderly people will not hurt themselves and they can train in a pleasant and joyful atmosphere.

6. The purpose of Aikido is to train mind and body and to produce sincere, earnest people. Since all the techniques are to be transmitted person-to-person, do not randomly reveal them to others, for this might lead to their being used by hoodlums."
Kisshomaru Ueshiba, The Spirit of Aikido, Kodansha International, 1984, p. 85)

GRADINGS/PROMOTIONS
We are proud to announce the results of the most recent gradings and promotions at the InnerStairway Zen Judo club, in Charlottesville, Virginia. The final part of the grading took place on the 20th of March, under the guidance of Sensei Ed Stockwell, 3rd Dan. J. (Jay) Justin Taylor was promoted to Blue belt and Justin McKinnis-Frazier received his Orange belt. Congratulations to Jay and Justin for work well done. May they continue to shine in the Gentle Path.

BLACKBELT TRAINING
The next scheduled Black Belt training for American Zen Judo is May 25. The training starts at 1:30 pm and goes until 5 pm at the Wadokan Dojo here in Richmond. This will be an open mat training where Black Belts will have the opportunity to work on whatever skills or techniques they want to improve. All Zen Judoka Dan grades are invited to the training. For those outside of Virginia who are planning to attend, let us know if you need lodging. For more information or directions e-mail Sensei Chris Flinn at ChrisFlnn@aol.com/