Issue 4 - March 2008 - International Chito-Ryu Karate-do Federation ...

In the study of karate we are
taught that when we enter the
dojo we follow the instructions of
the sensei without question. The
natural process of entering and
leaving the dojo relates to many
other aspects of our martial
training and if studied diligently
will foster the correct manner that
is required in all areas of training
both inside and outside the dojo.
It also enables Chito-Ryu Karate-
Do to be a form of Budo that
brings people together of all
ages, gender and backgrounds
into a situation where everyone
encourages one another to grow
in all aspects of budo.
Learning is a lifelong pursuit and
to maintain a natural beginners
mind is essential if we are to
continue to grow in every aspect
of our lives. This commitment is
not an easy one and a struggle at
the best of times. This is why I
would like to suggest that the
“Gates of Budo” is within all of
us. It is that place within our
humanity where genuine growth
occurs, where we confront our
emotions, control the ego and
listen to our bodies. It is a place
where we intrinsically grow from
the inside out and connect with
our centre, breath and nature.
The one thing that is clear is that
just as we have all entered
through the “Gates of Budo” one
day we will all leave.
Generations of karate students with Soke Sensei at the site of O’Sensei’s first dojo. 60th Celebrations 2006.
River of Knowledge – Autumn 2008 14