Reflections on Aikido: Life's Everyday Lessons

2020 was the year in which George Floyd was killed and COVID-19 struck the world. In May, demonstrations raged and then COVID lockdowns just barely smothered the flames, leaving the embers red hot amongst the dry tinder of society's privilege. Against this backdrop, Aikido, the Way of Peace, faltered, with systemic racism and physical distancing eviscerating the ability to practice within the confines of a dojo.

This book will remind Aikidokas of O Sensei's original teachings. Aikido is more than physical technique that applauds athleticism and crowd appeal. There is a dimension of personal and societal development hidden in O Sensei's lectures and dokas. O Sensei's vision of Aikido went beyond technique, beyond white privilege and beyond a COVID pandemic.

Selected quotes from The Heart of Aikido and The Secret Teachings of Aikido appear at the beginning of each chapter, followed by poems that explore O Sensei's underlying intent and meaning. This book will help Aikidokas of all levels to get in touch with O Sensei's vision to help society to build a more peaceful world.