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The 24th commernoration in Memory ofO'Sensei Morihei Ueshiba

(1983 r L969)

EDITOR'S NOTE:

Ailcido Insights welcome its readers.In this issue you will read about theC ommemoration of O' S e ns ei p a s s ingthe Silver Anniversary of TenshinkaiAilcido Federation and Ailcido train-ing.

Dang Thong Phong Sensei opens thisissue by sharing his reflection ofO'Senseiduringhis trip to the HombuDojo in lapan in 1967.

N. Ho follows Sensei's article with hisreport of the Silver Anniversary Cele-bration of TenshinkaL

Hoa Na,veru, DanelTantorl Beth Hall,Bruce MacLeod Alqander MacLeo{Genevieve MacLeod share theirmemories and impressions of theanniversary event.

Finally, Mai Chi Hong Robin Sarac,Gary Welbom and Quang Hai Nguyenhave written about: Foundation ofTechnt4u€, and the Budo Center asMy Second Family.

Ailcido Instghts staff warmly thanl<severyone who have written articles, aswell as the numerous indivi^duals whohave attended the Anniversary andSeminar.

Lastly, our heartfelt thanl<s to fac-queline Haycox, Regina Uliana,Howard Anderson, Duong Dinh,Richard Smith and many others fortheirtime and effort in completingthisissue.

As you continue to learn and grow inAikido, we would appreciate hearingfrom your experiences. Your articlescAn be sent to Aikido Insights.

It's spring time again! Aikido Insightswishes you the best of the season.

1993 Internatlonal Martial Arts Festival

The testival will be held on the 21 st and 22nd of May, 1 993 at the Shera-ton Universal Hotel, in Universal City.

Phong Sens ai and Tensh i nkai N kido Federation have the honor to par-ticipate in this grand event. Phong sensei will give a demonstration with a groupof students on the evening of the 21 st. on saturday the 22nd, phong sensei willgive a two-hour seminar.

Other noted rnasfers include Wally Jay, toth Dan, Smalt Circte Jujitsu;Karl Man,9th Dan, Keichu-Ryu Karate; John Williams, qth Dan, Shinto- Ryu NkiJuiitsu; Wai Ming Chau, lnheritor and Prof.; PegW Chau, Situ, Wu Mui Kung Fuand many others will participate.

There is a special rate for Tenshinkai members. If you are interested,please contact Phong sensei tor advance registration before May 10th.,1993.

My Second FamilyBy Mai Chi Hong, 8yrs. old

Two years ago I went to see my cousinspractice Aikido. lt looked fun. I went homeand thought about it. Then I asked my mompermission to join the Budo Center.

On the first day I was scared and lonely. Ididn't know anybody. There were lots ofpeople, both American and Vietnamese.Two week later I met Lynn. She is nice andhelped me get used to being with people Ididn't know. I have four newfriends that arenice too.

The exercise is fun but sometimes difficult.After the warm-up exercises the rolling andbreakfalls begin. lf you can't roll or breakfallyou seat down on the side.

I was in three festivals. I had to pratice hardto be in the festival. On Friday, February19th, 1993, I took part of the adult class,

Instead of practicing techniques with theadults, my brother, his friend and I prac-ticed with the"sticks". I was the only girlthere. I felt very speciall My Sensei is verynice and smail. He teaches really well too.Sometime he plays with us. My Sensei'sname is Dang Thong Phong.

A boy in my class, name David, who wearsglasses, told me that he lives in Anaheimbut lthought he said "Bannahim." He lives inOrange County.

One month after I started in Aikido, my dadjoined in. He practices with my brother andme at home. Now, after two years with theBudo Center, I have many more friends,many more instructors and I spend manyhours at the center. They are like my sec-ond family.

tr

Jim Wenrick

AFew Dayswith

On thisveryday twenty-fouryears ago in1969, O'Sensei Morihei Ueshiba, founderof Aikido left his disciples for eternity.Until now and forever, O'sensei will livegloriously in our hearts, and in my heartas a bright example of learning. He ex-celled in the art ofself-defense, aswell asbeing a proponent of a martial art phi-losophy serving peace, private and pub-lic welfare.

I arrived at Hombu Dojo on NovemberL7th, 1967 at 4:00 pm. Because of thegeographic latitude, Tokyo was almostnvilight at 4:00 pm. Lights were on in thestreets, bright white here, red there. Itwas colder in Japan than in Vietnam,making me ill at ease of an isolated for-eign visitor on the streets at dusk.

However, I felt a gteat warmth when Ientered the Aikido Headquarters build-ing. I was received by a woman fromCalifornia, to whom I introduced myselfand after some conversation, learned thatshe was the editor of their qrumerly neun-paper "Aikido'. Shewas undergoing train-ing every day and held a second degreeblack belt.

Half an hour later, I was received by Mr.Kisshomaru Ueshiba, son of O'SenseiMorihei Ueshiba. When hewas informedof my desire to see the dojo, he wasgreatly pleased. I took that occasion toask permission to train at the dojo.

The next d.y, I arrived at the dojo at6:00am and spent half an hour doingcalesthentics to warm up my muscles.Aftenvards, a senior member came togreet me and the training began. As I sitwriting, I can still see clearly the "shiho-nage" movements. Thewrist of my part-ner was so thick that I could only lvrapmy fingers half way around it.

The morning practices lasted two hours,and I had already been weakened by twoweeks stay in Korea, because of the unfa-miliar climate, drink and food. But back

O'SENSEI MORIHEI UESHIBABy Sensei Dang Thong Phong

on the mat, seeing the diligence and as-siduity of Doshu Kisshomaru I was en-couraged to train very hard. Also, I madeeveryeffort to go to the dojo nvice a day.

The second day as we were doing exer-cises, myblack belt companion suddenlymade a bow. Under the dojo custom, itmeant that he was either too tired or forsome other reason could not go on. Ilooked around and saw that everyonewas sitting down. And to my great sur-prise, I saw O'Sencei Morihei Ueshibacoming into the dojo.

Hewas over eightyyears old. At that a5e,O'Sensei had the appearance of all agedmen, with wrinkles and hollow cheeks.But there was a profound difference be-tween him and other teachers I had met.The difference consisted of O'Sensei ex-traordinary poiler and for@. It is a strengthI could not believe existed if I had notseen with my own eyes.

O'Sensei waved his arm to the right, anda black belt student immediately stoodup and madeabow. Hebegan his lecturein Japanese. I understood nothing.

Flowever, I could comprehend himthrough his demonstration of throun,and I was able to deduce the theories.

All the techniques taught by O'Senseirequired "Ki". To combine theory andtechnigue, the black belt made a stepfonrard to grasp O'Sensei. In the nn'in-kling of an €I€, the blackbelt student fellon his back. Time after time, he rose upand attacked O'Sensei. Each time theattack was neutralized.

Eventhough I already knew that O'Senseiwas an expert at defending himself.Nevertheless, to watch a strong youngman attacking a very old man made mefeel uneasy. To myam azement, O'sensei

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made some throun which made the opponent fall without touchinghim. No one would suspect that his inner force was so strong. Ithought that his body must conform to the laws of nature.

Doshu Kissho maru lJeshiba demonstrationPhoto taken bY Phong Sen sei (1967)

I arrived at the Aikido World Headquarters first as anindividual having the honor of returning to the motherschool to be trained and apply for the third degree blackbelt examination. Second as a representative of AikidoVietnail, I presented a photo of all themembers of theAikido dojos in Vietnam. He looke,d at it and raised itover his head for everyone to see. Then O'Sensei spokewith his eyes half closed. It seemed that he was praylngfor the peace of Vietnam and the world.

Time elapsed quickly. It was on my fourteenth day and Iwas allowed to take the examination for third dan byKisshomara Ueshiba.

Fifteen minutes had passed. Iwas on the edge of exhaus-tion--too tired by having to match partners several timesstronger and taller than myself.

Aftenpards, I was invited to have lunch with the staff ofthe Aikido newspaper. In a cordial atmosphere theyasked me about the expansion of Aikido in Vietnam andabout my personal impression of Japan.

Before leaving Japan, I attended an Aikido exhibition byO'Sensei Morihei Ueshiba, Kisshomaru Ueshiba, Senseisof the Hombu Dojo, In attendant were several hundredbalck belt students from various universities in Japan.O'Sensei performed during this exhibition, using only afan to fight against daggers and swords of his opponents.

At the end of the demonstration, I bid farewell to O'Sensei,the Father of Aikido. He warmly advised me and otherAikido disciples to whole heartedly develop ourselves inone spirit of mutual assistance and peace.

I remember O'Sensei, his golden words, and the task Ihave taken upon myself to dedicate my life to Aikido.

On this duy, with a heartfelt remembrance of O'Senseipassing, I wish each student to practice with diligence inorder learn and grow in Aikido.

I

ryp?

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Phong Sensei at Hombu Dojo (Nov. 1991)

Tenshin kai Aikido Federation

On the 1.6th and lTth of Janu-zty, L993, at the Federation Headquar-ters Dojo in Westminster, California,the Tenshinkai Aikido Federation cele-brated the twenty fifth anniversary of itsfoundation.

It is known that in L967 Sensei DangThong Phong, after having studied Aikidowith Grand Master Mutsuro Nakazonoand Nobuyoshi Tamura from 1960 to1963 in Vietnam, went to the AikikaiHombu Dojo in Tokyo, Japan, to attendAikido classes under the instruction ofO'Sensei Morihei Ueshiba and DoshuKishomanr Ueshiba It was at the HombuDojo that he gained his 3rd degree blackbelt after an examination tyAikido DmhuKisshomaru Ueshiba.

After returning to his native Vietnam,Sensei Dang Thong Phong compiled atext of regulations and statutes to found

an organization to be called the "TEN-SHINKAI AIKIDO FEDERATION.''The name Tenshinkai, meaning "God'sHean Associatiorq" wils gven by O'senseiMorihei Ueshiba and Doshu KishomaruUeshiba to the Vietnam Aikido affili-ation in the 60's. They also entnrstedSensei Phong \Mith the duty of organiz-ing and propagating the Aikido art in thespirit of "Love" and "Peace."

More than two hundred Aikido mem-bers were present at the inauguration ofthe celebration. There was participa-tion by many Aikido groups such as thoseof the following chief instructors: SenseiFrank McGouirlq 5th dan, of the Aikido-AiDojo in Whittier; Sensei KimPeuser,5th dan, and Sensei Hoa Newens, 5thdan, both of the Aikido Institute inOakland; Sensei Nakayama James Mori-taka, 4th dan, of Chushinkan Dojo inAnaheim and Sensei Van Duong of theFort Saskatchewan Aikido Club in Al-

Celebrates lts 25th BirthdayBy N.Ho

berta, Canada. In addition, many blackbelt grade former students of Tensh-inkai Aikido Federation came ftom geatdistanes to asist at the @remony. Amongthem were Mrs. Cathie I-e Minh Anh,Vietnamese *AO DAI" designer in Paris,France; Mr. Vo TruongTho ftomMchi-gan; Mr. Truong Dai Hyfrom Texas andMr. Tran van Quang from Oklahoma.

At 10 a.m. sharp the celebration wasinaugurated bya major speech ftom SenseiDang Thong Phong, prosident andfounder of Tenshinkai Aikido Federa-tion. He began his speech by greetingthe guests, the friendly Aikido teams,and the Federation members who hadcome ftom great distan@s. Then hesummarized the formation of the Fed-eration and its trrenty five years of con-tinuous history including its five yearpresence in the United States. He didnot forget to praise the Aikido philoso-phy and the Aikido practitioners' con-

-5-

ception of life, which is to know how to

live in harmony with others. It goeswithout saying that Aikido is a martialart, but the aim of this martial art is notto seek victories through comPetitionsas most other martial arts do. Aikidoteaches us how to win over our bad na-tures and undesirable behaviots. It stressesthedevelopment of our abilityto minglewith society and to live harmoniouslywith others in everydaY life.

In a tense society, a society of stress, asociety in which violence is seen as alegitimate means of making wealth, anda society in which honor is won by domi-nating and subduing ingenuous people'swishes, Aikido is a perfect meditation.Aikido is "TAO," it is "ZEN" and it isthe way to serenity and relamtion. Aikidois not merely a martial art as most peoplethink. Aikido is seen as a Martial Artbecause it is a perfect self defense.However, looking into the matter thor-oughly, w€ must conclude that Aikido isNOT a Martial Art. Sayrng "MartialArts" is suggesting that force is used. InAikido we never use force, especiallyforce of the muscles. We only use thepower of our mind. We concentrate ourmind in "K['s WAY," in the Poweremanated from our spirit, in the motionof our body in circles around the centralpoint of our being which is our brainfrom where all orders are given to ourlimbs which act in conformance exactlywith those orders.

Following his speerh, Sensei Dang ThongPhong respectfully handed each of theaforementioned Aikido delegations abouquet and a picture to keep as souve-nirs marking the maturity of the federa-tion. After that, Mr. James Wenrick,Editor-in-Chief of Aikido Insights, theofficial 'toice" of the Tenshinkai AikidoFederation, presented a silver cup toSensei Phong. This presentwas given tosymbohzp the unceasing nrenty-five yearactivity of Master Photrg, a period filledwith pain and difficulties. Many otherpresents were offered to Sensei Phongby the Aikido Delegations to welcomethe elebration In partiarlar, Mrs. CathieI-e Minh Anh offered a very beautifulportrait of O'sensei Morihei Ueshibawhich she had painted in color on silk.

She brought it from Paris as an offeringto the Federation from a student to the

Mother Dojo. All members who hadcontrlbuted their labor and their meritto the Federation since its foundationwere issued certificates of appreciation.

We then witnessed out-standing Aikido exhibi-tions by the Aikido dele-gations. To begin,SenseisKim PeuserandHoa Newens of theAikido Institute inOakland performedincredibly with their stu-dents. Then Sensei

I

James NakayamaMori-taka and his studentsfrom Chushinkan inAnaheim presented anamazing enhibition. Thiswas followed by SenseiTruong Van Duong andhis students from theFort SaskatchewanAikido Club of Alberta,Canada Finally, the hostAikido team from SenseiDang Thong Phong'sTenshinkai AikidoFederation Headquar-ters in Westminster fas-cinated the spectatorswith its admirableextribition. The ceremony ended at 1'1,:30a.m.

In the afternoon an Aikido seminar foradults was held. About 70 Aikidomembers from various dojos enrolled,and the Senseis took turns teaching Aikidotechniques to the participants. EachSensei demonstrated his or her specialmethod, showing his or her own way ofrealizing the Aikido art. Aikido mem-bers of each dojo realized immediatelythat the proverb "MIGHT IS RIGHT"is wrong. Small people, usually seen asweak, could see their inferiority com-plexes vanish immediately. Furthennore,they felt themselves flytng in the air.They had the feeling that their limbssuddenly became light and nimble. Theywanted to participate in the "Aikidodance," the dance of cranes, of peacocks,of Phoenix spreading their wings lei-surely above all the brutal attacks of life.

-6-

This could be seen by their mirthfullypassionate countenance. A fact deserv-ing everybody's notice was that NOSHOUT, NO ROAR was heard in thedojo that day as is often heard in someother l\dartial Arts schools. All the'TE s,'

the "WAA's" and the "LJKEMI's" wereperformed through soft and gentlemovements in a peaceful atmosphere.The spectators had the feeling of beingin a dance hall, not a Martial arts studio,although the glitter of daggers were veryoften seen.

On the next dty, at 2:00 p.m. sharP, ablack belt awarding ceremony was heldat Tenshinkai Aikido Federation Head-quarters Dojo. Most of the guests wereparents and relatives of Dojo members.Sensei Dang Thong Phong emphasizedin his speech the important daily duty ofthe black belt holders to exchange tech-niques with classmates or partners inorder to develop and grow. Attainingthe degree of black belt is only the firststep on the stairs leading to the thresh-old of the door to the Aikido commu-nity. Black belt bearers must sense andunderstand their duty toward the Dojoand toward the community. They must

cooperate with the Board of Instructorsto teach and help new students in orderto propagate as soon as possible thisnoble art to all classes of the society.

Sensei Dang Thong Phong read thenominative list of practitioners who hadjust passed the lst and Znd degree blackbelt examination. First degree blackbelts and hakamas were official$ awardedto Mr. Au Duong Di, Mr. Chan Sam Wayand Mr. Ngo Chien by Sensei DangThong Phong, os President of AikidoFederation. Second degree black beltswere awarded to Mr. Nguyen Minh Haiand Mr. Cao Xuan Chieu. This was thefirst time in the United States that theTenshinkai Aikido Federation had is-sued second degree black belts. A ses-sion of Aikido exhibition took place afterthe black belt ceremony. This exhibitionwas performed exclusively by the Tensh-inkai Aikido Federation HeadquartersDojo members. The exhibition went onin an enthusiastic atmosphere.

After two days of celebration, the 25thanniversary of the foundation of theTenshinkai Aikido Fbderation ended witha toast of cocktails offered by the Fed-eration to all assisting memben and guestsin a friendty, merry atmosphere. It markedthe affirmation that the Tenshfurkai AikidoFederation has attained a stable posi-tion in the international community ofAikido and has shown itself to beworthyof admiration and respect.

A gitt of Osensef portrait by Mrs. Le Minh Anh, Paris, France.(Above)

A demonstration by James Fis her and Jim Ogborn.(Below)

Shodan advancement, Mr. Au Duong Di(Below -Left)

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Ai kido-Ai, Whittier, Cal iforniaby Frank McGouirk Sensei.(Above-Left)

Aikido lnstitute, Oakland, Californiaby Km Peuser Sensei and Hoa Newens Sensei.(Above-Right)

Fort Saskatchewan Aikido Club, Alberta, Canadaby Van Duong Sensei. (Above)

Chushinkan Dojo, Anaheim, Californiaby James Nakayama Sensei. (Right)

A demonstration by members of the Aikido lnstituteand Km Peuser Sensei. (Below-Left)

Nidan Advancement,Mr. Cao Xuan Chieu and Mr. Nguyen Minh Hai.(Below-Right)

-8-

Seminar by Frank McGouirk Sensei.(Above-.Left)

Demonstration by James Nakayama Sensei(Above-Right)

Seminar by Dang Thong Phong Sensef(Above)

Demonstration by members of Tenshinkai Dojo(Right)

Demonstration byVan Duong Sensei(Below-Left)

Shodan Advancement, Mr. Ngo Chien(Below-Right)

-9-

Memory of theSilver AnniversaryCelebration

By Darrel E. TantonFort Saskafc hewan Aikido Club

Recently fellow student returned from a re-

warding seminar in L.A. with Sensei Dang

Thong Phong. Some students were im-pressed atthe skill level of the L.A. Aikidoistwho endure regular, rigorous training, as

well as enhanced technique delivery speed.

This is fine, if a student has obtained a high

level of skill and conditioning enabling him

or her to respond and react to this type oftraining. This skill level is not attained over-

nightl For instance, before attempting to

deliver a technique fast you must developtiming, coordinating, control and concen-

trdion. without these skills speed only leads

to an iniury. Once a student develops tim-

ing, coordination, control and concentra-tion, he then has achieved speed, or shall I

say controlled sPeeds!

Our goal as students must be to acquire a

high level of skill to implement techniquesswiftly, correctly and with total considera-tion forthe uke, who must respond accord-ingly. There are many variables to considerwhen discussing the path to hard trainingand controlled sPeed !

lwillstate Somefactors I believewe must be

aware of when training in Aikido. First of all,

months oryears of training does not consti-

tute a high skill level. Knowledge and skill

attained and retained are most impoilant.This requires continual, repetitive practice

both physically and mentally. We musttakenote of the various physical capabilitiesand inabilities of others. Some may not bein good health, may not be as flexible ormay be suffering or healing from previousinjuries. Size is another interesting factor, asmall stature or light frame may enable oneto achieve greater speed, agility and flexibil-

ity. This may also be an advantage whencompleting various break falls. Age brings

other areas of concern such as less flexibil'

ity, less endurance, brittle bones, or possi-

bly reduced speed. Another variable to

consider is prior skills and training. Peoplewho have backgrounds in other martial artsor sports may adapt quicker than others.We could also consider the weather, -30degree Celcius could cause people to ex-

perience arthitic pains or other ailments.Longer warm up exercises may be neededin extremely cold weather. Another impor-tant item is the training area, specifically the

mats. Judo mats may be too hard and less

shock absorbing as compared to other

training mats designed to soften the fallfrom various thrcwing techniques. We mustbear in mind that the harder the landingsufface, the lesser the amount of repetitivefallsthe human body canwithstand. Finally,we must have a good, sensible attitude andbe enthusiastic.

We are all students of Aikido; we must helpeach other ! There must be continual con-cern for our uke's well- being. We should

always respond, react and harmonize with

the uke. Thus lessening the chance for

injuries!

Remember, we train for fun, fitness, as ahobby, a vocation and then self-defense.We are not in competition, we do not spar!

The definition of Aikido is the way to har-

mony with Kl. Kl is the life force, the univer-sal power, the power which lies dormant inmost humans and waits to be awaken.Therfore, there is no competition in Aikido'only harmony! lf one wishes to be competi-tive, he or she should be practicing an art

that encourages competition, tournaments,and sparring such as Karate or Tae KwonDo!

Hopefully in time we will achieve high skillsin Aikido which will encompass applyingtechniques and responding to techniquesproperly. A good uke must react and flow

with the technique appropriately. This couldbe in the form of breakfall, backroll, frontrolletc. .. Most importantly, the techniques mustbe applied correctly with concern to the

skills level of the uke. This is critical in order

to prevent iniuries. Please understand iniu-

ries take time to heal resulting in setbacksor permanent disabilities. Iniuries also couldprevent a person from working, resulting infinancial catastrophies. Therefore, please

try to develop the basic techniques, skillsand awareness. Everything else willfall intoplace!

I conclude by stating, "Do unto others asyou would have do unto you!" Try to re-

spect Aikido, your sensei and fellow stu-

dents. Be concerned for their health and

well being. With hope, luck and persever-ence, we can be together for many years

enjoying Aikido as well as sharing the art ofTenshinkai Aikido with future generations!

TO BE A STUDENT...By Robin SaracFort Saskatchewan Ailcido Club.Edmonton, Alb ert a, CANADA

To be a student of Aikido requires thatone possess certain attributes, includingpatience, dedication, humility' and awillingness to helP others.

In my case, patience was the first traitthat was put to the test during the initialstages of my Aikido training. Havingtaken Karate, Iwas used to seeing an im-

mediate practical end to everytechniqueI was shawn. While many Aikido tech-

niques can be very practical, these are

usually taught later in the training proc-ess. The Aikido student must be willingto practicbasic techniques overand overagain until they fell natural and fluid'This takes me to the next imPortantquality, dedication.

Any student, newcomer or veteran' will

require dedication. Dedication to put in

the many hours of training required to

perfect the foundamentals of Aikido that

make it look so very graceful, and make

it such a potent form of self defense.In addition, a students will need to grownin humility to accept instruction andcriticism from fellow students as well asyour sensei--regardless of their rank'

Humility to realize that we are all stu-dents we must work together to achievethe harmony that is the heart and soul of

Aikido. This brings me to the final qual-ity I will disscus: the willingness to help

others.

Aikido is not about competition, it cen-ters around harmony. To achieve thisharmony, students of Aikido shouldpossess a willingness to help othen. Theymust strive to help other students prog-

ress and gain a solid knowledge and

understanding of the philosophy behindAikido. Aikido is not just a set of move-

ments designed to neutralize or project

an attacker, it is a PhilosoPhY: A WAY

OFLIFE.

These are by no means the only qualitiesrequired to be successful in your Aikidotraining, but they are some of the mostobvious in life. In

10 -

^It tras been a long, busyweek atwork. Theweather has been veryinclem_ent: three weeks of continuous stormsand showers in the middle of a record-cold winter. r was still recovering from a'throat infection that Friday evening, yerIwas excited about our trip to westmin-ster.

Upon leaving work, I grabbed a sand_wich and caught a ride with some Aikifriends to the airport The rain was pouringdown. There was standing room only aithe airline gates. The plane was an hourlate. When we landed the storm wasthere to greet us too. But despite thisominous start, it proved to be I heart_warming and memorable weekend.I was

when Sensei phong arrived in the unitedStates, he was 52 years of &go, was stillrecovering from the effects of phpicaland mental abuse from the communistprisons and reeducation €mps and hardlyh1d any material possessions. Shortlyafter reuniting with his wife and twochildren after a 13 year separation, heundertook the monumental task of re-building his Aikido life from scrarch. Hestarted a dojo, which had to be movedthrough several locations, and after fiveyears, attracted a student roll of over170. In addition, he revived the Tensh-inkai Aikido Federation and rallied manyof his former students who were scat-tered all over the world, sensei laboredhard to fulfill his Aiki mission. r heard

from the studentsthat it is not un-usual to find himin the dojo at4:00AM or11:00PM.

During thisvisit tothe TenshinkaiHeadquartersDojo I saw the fiuir

I thought that for a relativelyyoung dojoto organize such a major event wittroutany noticeable glitch, the students musthave been guided by an impeccableteacher. I do not recall having seen asimilar case of successful dojo leader-ship throughour my twenty-six year Aikidocareer.

Not being one who rests on his laurels,Phong Sensei intends to open a branchdojo in a nearby town. He also has avision of going back to Vietnam someday and helping revive Aikido there. Anormal person would shudder at suchthgughrs: going back to teach at the placewhere one was so atrociously persecutedjust five years ago.

Reviewing Phong sensei's rife thus far, Ican only marvel at the powerof his spirit.Indeed, being a physically diminutiveperson, Sensei must be endowedwith anunusual spirit in order to overcome thenumerous trials and tribulations that havecome his way.

Because Sensei's life struggle has takenhim in and out of the darkness of com-

An Impeccoble Spirit4 Hoa Newens,

Ailcido Institute, Oakland, Califomin

looking fonvard to this day since threemonths ago when phong sensei told methat he was planning the zsth anniver-sary celebration of the Tenshinkai AikidoFederation in Janu

"ty, rgg3.That would

be the first reunion of renshinkai mem-bers outside of Vietnam since the warended in 1975. I could not miss this atany cost, especially since Sensei hadformally invited our dojo to the event.The members of our parry, which in-cluded our chief instructor, were alsoeager to meet again with this man whohad left such a powerful impression onthem when he came to give i seminar inOakland last October. Rain or shine, wewere determined to attend.

In reality, attending was both a lessonand a boosr to my sluggish spirit.

of Phong sensei's unceasing effort in thepast five years. I knew that sensei was averydetermined person with an unbend_ing spirit and so I expected to see won_ders in his dojo. What I sawexceeded myexpectations and was so spiritually up_lifting that it instantly cured me of myfive-week-old cold and made my wifesuspicious about my jubilant mood uponmy return.

Iwas impressed notonlyby the technicalproficiency of the students, but also bytheir buoyant training spirit and theiresprit de corps. In addition to the classesfor the seminar, the program included along list of demonstrations and @remo_nies. Yet everything went like cloclavorkThe guests, including chief instructorsand students from several dojos, wereextremely well taken care for.

- 11-

munist jails several times and to a differ-ent continent, it is hard for one whocomes into contact with him recently toget the proper perspective on his life andrealize the steadfastness of his spirit.

It is my hope that all his students and allthose who come across his path under_stand the worthy cause that this man isconsecrating his life to and join handswith him wholeheartedly.

I am most grateful to Sensei for invitingme to this special event, for it allowedme to witness the extraordinary accom_plishments of an impeccable spirit andrenewed my faith in the Aiki path.

r

In teaching brown and black

belt students, Sensei Dang Thong Phong

said: .We can learn werywhere, and ftom

everyone, ftom high ranking black belt

and ine beginning white belt students.

Irarning is promoted when the brown

and black belt student takes the oPpor-

tunity to teach and share with others. In

fact, tne student who teaches will learn

much more because teaching is learn-

ing.-.tt

Sometime sgo, when I first heard these

words from sensei Phong,Iwas puzzled.

her mind is, the rcalization comes that

this is just a small opening. In addition,cultivating a sincere and concentratedheartwhich regards our strong andweakpoints is necessary for improvement' It

is in this way our selfishness is shaped'

I find that it is dangerous when facing an

opponent to focus primarily on his or

ha; weakness and not regard his or her

strengths seriously or vice versa. There

is a need to see both in order to obtain a

complete evaluation for the benefit of

everyone involved.

ent viewpoints.

Patience can be learned byevery student

simply by training daily. Howeyer,-I have

to confess that sharing with the begin-

ner, and especiallyyoung children I learn

wonderful lessons about patiell@. There

are times when I think to myself that I am

very patient or'aery cool." Ibelieve that

noining can shake my calm. In fact I am

ready to prove it by expecting-some-thing, anything big to happen' It does

not takelong. An unexpectedmoment, a

)oung child shatters my "ool'and teaches

me how easily I can lose my patience'

I admire all of my friends who are shar-

ing their knowledgewith children. They

are not only patient, they are very crea-

tive with theii ability to capture and hold

a child's attention. Theyteach me agteat

deal by their examPle.

There is a story that demonstrates my

case. Yoritomo Tashi told a tale of Lao

who is one of his students, who is very

dedicated to folow the way of calmness'

but had not yet grown to a higher level of

calm.

onedayhecametoseeTashiandsai.d:"...Sensel I tisten to your teaching and

practice very hard every day' Noy I thinkl-have

gotten everything right' I am com-

ptetety in controt of mysetf. today I would

like to show You mY resttlts'"

"Lao, you better be careful' Do not fallinto the snare self pride and of being over

confi^dent. You should lotow that in order

to reach the fullest calmness people have

to stand on top of alt obstacles. Anything

no matter how big or small?"

"Sensei, I alreadY lotow that' Right

now, I am wiltingto try any ofyour tests to

prove it. "

Tashi aske$ "Are You sure? Have Youwon over att of Your feelings?"

Lao resPonde4 "f am very sure' I

b eliev e t hat ev en if the s lcy w ouldfall on my

head I would not shake mY calmness'"

Tashi responde4 "AIl right, if you in'

sisf, thenwhy don'tyou sitdown overthere-

Learning Through Sharingby Qtang Hai NguYen

I thought the only place learning oc-

curred was at the dojo or school and

nowhere else. Besides, who are the quati-

fied teachers of Aikido and how could a

student learn everywhere? When I wanted

to learn something I wanted to learn

only from high ranking students and

teachers, from "the best." It would be a

waste of time to be involved with "nov-

ices." They could not teach me!

Fortunately, after a period of practice I

found these thoughts were short-sightedand selfishly driven. It was like Sensei

has said: "In practice we provide the

time for the lessons to sink in and be-

come part of our behavior." There have

been many times in the past when I was

practicing and suddenly understood more

lnan the technique. I realuedwhat Sensei

had meant, ffiY surface understandingwas deepened and actions changed'

In learning, a Person must oPen and

clear the mind so he or she can be recep-

tive to new ideas and actions. However'

it is important to understand that as

open anb clear as a person thinks his or

The benefits of learning ftom high rank-

ing students or "the best of the best"

cannot be denied, however' many times

I did not understand clearly what the

"best" was talking about or demonstrat-ing. Sometimes the gap was too great

benveen my level and "the best." Mean-

while, many things close by offered much

to learn as longas therewas awillingness

to learn. I found when I did not restrict

myself by any learning situations or per-

sons and simply seized the moment' I

learned!

When I was a beginning white belt and

intermediate student I thought I made

the most mistakes of anyone. In fact,

am still making mistakes. Now when

see the opportunity I can share what

have learned.

As different as people are in size and

shape so are the mistakes. When a stu-

denl asks me what is wrong or why is it

not working I may not instantly have the

answer unless I have made a similar mis-

take. To obtain the answer I have to put

myself in his or her position. In so doing

I also learn valuable lessons from differ-

-12-

Iust be silent andwaitformy test. I will seehowyou are goingto handlethis incredibletest. "

Tashi then called one other student andwhispered something into his ear whichmade him look terrified Afrer that Tashisaid aloud; "Sit down next to Lao, there isa good chance for you to learn anotherimponant lesson, too."

Tashi sat4 "LAo is a son of a very richand high class famity. He wears expensiveclothes many of which are beautifullydecorated" Tashi instntcted Lao to layhis coat next to where he was sitting Theother student walkedtoward Lao in orderto sit down as he had been instructed by hissenseL On the way to sitting he pretendedto acci^dentalty step on Lao's clothingwithhis dir-ty shoes. Lao, not wasting a second,and lookingveryupset hunidty pushed theother student out ofthe path of his clothingandyelled: "How careless you are!"

Tashiraised his hand and said, "ThAt,senough. I do not needto testyou any more,Lao. You made two mistakes.

First, you were forced to break yoursilence by this awlcward situation. Seconeyour anger overtook and controlled you.These are two very important mistakes ofthe srudent of calmness. There is a thirdmistake which you s hould avoid; allowingother people to suddenty shakeyour calm-ness. You did not lotow how to prepare forthe unexpected I understand if there is anrmed mnn wln wanldwalk in and tlneatmyou he would not take awoy your calm-ness. Or whenyou hear terrible news suchas the earth almost blew up. It may notshake your feelings of calm. Vl/hen I toldyou be prepared for an incredible test, byintention was to make your mind uimag-ine you will see something big brry bit tohappen. Butyou did not expect to see somesilly and funny thing like that to defeat allyour training. You must memorize this les -son."

"...Teaching is learning. And ifwe learnwith the intention of teaching in thefuture, and spread the wonderful art ofAikido, our way of learning sure will bedifferent." I-et us do it together. I

The Foundation of Techniqueby GaryWelbom,Ailcido of Nonh Orange County, Catifornin

lfter the initial movement to tionwillresultintheattackerbeingeasilyget off the line of attack, the foundation thrown.of technique is breaking the balance ofthe attacker's posture. Without accom-plishing this, the Aikido technique ap-pliedwill notworkas intended. If theat-tacker's posture remains firm, only theuse of excessive force, with a resultingmechanical modification away fromcorrect movement, will allow you toovercome the attacker. Aikido techniquesapplied in conjunction wirh an underly-ing use of excessive power establishes amechanical flow of movetnent inconsis-tent with the technique, making its re-sults different than what was originallyintended. If you fail to break the at-tacker's posture, you have a fight onyourhands.

To accomplish an imbalan@ in yourattacker, you need to rotate his or herupper body off the line of the origninalattack. This breaks the attacker,s con-nection to the ground, disturbing thestructural integrity of the body, and tak-ing the power out of the attack. Move-menr is initiated either by leading theattacker physically off line ar the mo-ment of contact or by leading the at-tacker through a reacton to do some-thing you do, by influencing his or herpercerption of reality. To lead the at-tacker phpically, you make contact alongthe line of attack and redirect the at-tacker by movements of your body. Thiscan be as simple as grcsping the attacker'swrist, taking it with you as you turn awayor enter. The "something" that you cando to influence the attacker's movementis "atemi." As the attack comes in, youmove off line and respond with a strike(atemi) of your own. Your strike doesnot need to make contact to be effective.Ifyour strike (atemi) is perceived as real,his or her mind will react as if hit and thebody will move away, creating an open-ing as the attacker's mind bounces be-tween what is actual and what is per-ceived. This opening need only to bemomentary, just long enough to allowyour entry. With either approach, oncean imbalance is created, the minimumuse of force applied in the correct direc-

- 13 -

With regards to timing, the imbalancemust be accomplished as an extension ofthe attacker's movement, coming as apart of the attack. Making your move-ment a part of the attack is what I believeis meant by the term "blending." Theattacker needs to be off balance beforehe or she realizes what has happened.The attacker's movement becomes asubset of your movement, losing its origi-nal intent in the overall flow that younow control. The attack loses it's subjec-tive power in the flow of impartial powerand the attacker is nowjust along for theride.

Other items of importance to considerduring the attack and your response arethe distance between you and your at-tacker, lour posture during the entireprocess, and proper breath control onyour part. Distance means maintainingthe correct spacing between you and theattacker, allowing your continued con-trol of the process: Too far and the at-tacker can not be brought into the flowof your movement; Too close and youcan get in each other's way. Proper dis-tance can only be learned through prac-tice as it is personal, different for eachindividual, differing with each attack orattacker. Your posture must remainupright and in balance or you may loseyour advantage" If you need to loweryour body, you do not do so by bendingyour back. Your body should move upand down during the flow of movementas a result of flexing your knees. If youneed to be lower you bend your knees,tall you straighten them. Your breathshould remain calm and controlled.Breathe in as you draw the attacker in,pulling out the attack and strectchingout the attacker's energy. Breathe out asyou turn the attack into your technigue,as you throw or pin. Consider what hasbeen said as you practice; notice whateffect your awareness of creating animbalance in your attacker has in theoutcome of your techniques. f

North of Forty Nine

?he big ne\rn this time is that someof us were South of Forty Nine; in West-minster, California for celebrations com-memorating the Fifth Anniversary ofthe Budo Center. Did we enjoy our-selves?My dictionary describes nincrediblen as:1.. beyond belief or understanding;

unbelievable2. marvelous; amazing.

Any of these terms (butpartiarlarly the later) coulddescribe the hospitality thatour group was shown. Oneof our members commentedthat she now knows howChuck and Di feel when theytravel. From the momentwe left the plane we weretreated like royalty. Not onlyin food, lodging, and con-versation but also in Aikidotraining. Given that SenseiPhong and his students hada major seminar to presentand other guests to look af-ter, we would have under-stood ifwe had to occasion-ally fend for ourselves. Butno, we were always lookedafter--even to the extent ofshopping. A very big'Thankyou" from all of us fromFort Saskatchewan to all ofyou in Westminster whomade our stay so enjoyable.I remarked to several stu-dents from the Budo Cen-ter that I thought our treat-ment was phenomenal andthe recurrent commentwas "That is howSensei Phong is"; therefore, the biggestthanks of all to Sensei Phong.

From our point ofview, the most impor-tant presentation received by our clubduring the celebrations was a certificatefrom Sensei Phong to Van Duong (ourinstructor) officially rerognt zngthe FortSaskatchewan Aikido Club as a memberof the Tenshinkai family. We all valuethat recognition very much but I thinkthat Van values it most of all. When wefirst started the Club, it was Van's fond-

est dream that some day we would beaccepted into the Tenshinkai fami$. Thatcertificate marked the realization of thedream and, in return, we will try to up-hold the good name of Tenshinkai alongthe top of the world here.

I was personally very impressed by thequality of Aikido in Westminster. Somany people took the time to help me(along with other members of our group)and gave such good advice that I had theovenvhelming desire to move to the USin order to further my training at the

tion to you, to come here, So that we cantry to repay your kindness.

Bruce H. MacLeod

The Difference BetweenForce and 56Kitt

I have found with doing Aikido that myability to use my strength has increased.It is not so much musclestrength itself ashow I use my body. For instan@, I couldnot pick up a 100 kg. man in my arms butI can on my hips doing Koshi nage.

Force is the ability to overcome resis-tance with strength. Force is negativeand not helpful to techniques in Aikidounless it is used properly. Force is fte-quently the last refuge of the incompe-tent. Ki is the ability to focus on doingwhat has to be done. Using Ki will allowyour mind and body to act together tofind the best way to accomplish the task.It can give you power in self-defense orthe ability to stay warm in an ice coldriver. The use of force may obscure learn-ingwhile the use of Ki will enable learn-ing.

Aikido has been helpful in my other ex-tracurricular activities such as dancingbecause of the strength and attitudes Ihave developed from it.

Genevieve S. MacLeo[ 12Yr. Old

Seminar in Westminster,California

On January 15,1993, Iwent to train withSensei Phong. FIe and his students arevery good. Some of the students are called"high flyers" and they literally live up totheir name, in rolls and break-falls.

I did a demonstration with one of ourstudents. His name is Calvin. It was en-joyable. The training was very hard; Itried to cope with the seminar but I waspooped. We stayed in a motel. The hos-pitality was great, and so were all thepeople we met there. I hope I have thehonour to go and work with Sensei Phongagain.

Alexander T. MacLeod 9 Yr. Old

Budo Center. It is no wonder to me whySensei Phong's students progress so rap-idly. There is ample opportunity to prac-tice and the quality of practice (if myexperience is anything to go by) is excep-tional. From these aspects alone the tripwas well worth while.

In summary, our visit to TenshinkaiHeadquarters was a memorable experi-ence for us all. We wish to extend ourmost grateful appreciation to all of youwho made it so worthwhile. Perhaps oneday we will be able to extend an invita-

-14-

|lly Trip toTenshin kai Headqu artersDojo

By Beth HallAikido lnstitute, Oakland, California

During the opening ceremotry, our dojowas presented with a poster commemo-rating the event as well as a lovely bou-quet of flowers (which, I must add, Ibrought home to Oakland with me andplaced them on our altar there for ourwhole dojo to enjoy!)

After the opening ceremony there was apublic demonstration in which we werehonored to take part. It was also veryexciting to watch the other demonstra-tions by differenr dojos as well as phongSensei's dojo. Following the demon-stration, the actual classes of the semi-nar began.

The first class was taughr by FrankMcGouirk Sensei from Whittier Cali-fornia. I have known Frank Sensei sinceI was a young girl growing up in South-ern California, and it was a pleasure tosee him again. The next class was taughtby both of my teachers, Kim Peuser andHoa Newens. Then came the last class ofthe d.y, taught by Phong Sensei himself.We had hosted him at our dojo over thesummer, and I know we had all beenlooking fonvard to experiencing his

- 15 -

On January 1,5, my ftiend Nina Beck andI flew down to Orange County to attendthe 75th fuuriversary elebration of SenseiDang Thong Phong's Tenshinkai AikidoFederation. We were met at the airportby one of Sensei Phong's students. Hetook us first to the dojo, where we weregreetd by Sensei, then to our hotel torest before evening class."

later, Sensei's wife picked us up andtook us to the dojo where we had anopportunity to train and meet more ofthe Tenshinkai students before the ac-tual seminar began. Nina and I wereboth astounded by the ukemi we saw.Sensei's students were very strong andgraceful and had some of the most high-flying falls I had ever seen. That was anenjoyable class.

I-ater in the evening the rest of our groupfrom Aikido Institute in Oakland ar-rived. In the morning we had breakfasttogether before heading to the dojo forthe opening ceremony of the day's events.We were greeted warmly by everyone atthe dojo. I know we all felt verywelcomethere.

dynamic techniques once again.

I was pretty tired by the time of the lastclass, but the power and fluidity of PhongSensei's Aikido woke me right up. Weall trained in groups for that session andI really enjoyed getting to practice wirhso many nelv people. All of the Tensh-inkai students were so considerate andhelpful, it was a really enjoyable class.

Phong Sensei and the Tenshinkai dojowere very hospitable, providing us allwith breakfast and lunch, as well as alovely banquet style dinner. I was per-sonally touched by the wonderful senseof community that was so pervasive atPhong Sensei's dojo. All told, it was atruly enjoyable day, and a great honor tohave an opportunity to take part in sucha momentous event.

We, at the Aikido Institute hope rhat wewill be able to host Phong Sensei at ourdojo again soon. We also extend an openinvitation to all of the students of Tensh-inkai Dojo, it is always a special rreat tohave visitors. f

Aikido demonstrations

presented, by Sensei Dang Thong Phong and his students will be on FridayMay 21st as part of the International Martial Arts Festival,

The Sheraton Hotel, Universal City.8:30pm

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8536 Westminster Ave., Westminster, CA 92683(comer of westminster Aue. & Newland, nut to Stater Bros tr[arket)

AIKID(I TRAII{I}IG SCHEDULIMondoy thr. Fridoy8 - 9:SOAIVI Adutts5 - 6:3OPM Juniors6:30 - 8PM AdultsSolurdoy & Sundoy10 - 1l:SOAIVI Juniors11:30 - lPM Adutts