If we were training for a fight, Ian, we would not be training at the dojo. It would be in the garage and basement with relatives and friends or on the street for something a little emphirical.And if we really were training for a fight, I think we'd do it differently.
Who owns The Holy Grail?
Moderator: Available
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Allen M.
Who owns The Holy Grail?
<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote
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f.Channell
- Posts: 3541
- Joined: Thu Oct 21, 1999 6:01 am
- Location: Valhalla
Who owns The Holy Grail?
The thing which I find most interesting about reading the history of the masters is how healthy and long lived they are. Look at Toyama sensei photos in different books and you'll see a man in his late sixties in outstanding condition. there are numerous masters who live into their 80's and 90's in excellent health. Who doesn't want to do great katas in their 80's? Heres a reason to study their training habits, how they blocked, kicked etc... Toyama sensei is a role model for us all.
f.
f.
Who owns The Holy Grail?
<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>But...boy did Rich catalogue some "differences." Most of them were niggling details, like whether you supinate vs. pronate on the arm rubbing exercise at any one point, but this "version" was bizarre from my standpoint. And why did his son, Uechi Kanei, not do things the same way? Why would Toyama sensei do a wauke with arms almost completely out, and Kanbun's son do it with elbows closer in? Or for that matter, why would Uechi Kanei not breathe out with his sanchin strikes? Or essentially state that people should do what is natural?
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Bill sensei:
Have you asked Gordi-Sensei these questions?
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Bill sensei:
Have you asked Gordi-Sensei these questions?
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Bill Glasheen
- Posts: 17299
- Joined: Thu Mar 11, 1999 6:01 am
- Location: Richmond, VA --- Louisville, KY
Who owns The Holy Grail?
Panther
I wish you were around to work with my Tony. There aren't many big boys like him, and you sound about right. I'm one of the few who can really let Tony cut loose, but he hurts me now and then when I'm not careful (try stopping a 310 lb. plus coordinated beast some time...). Anyhow, he spends lots of time in another state these days from job considerations, but maybe we can get you guys to have fun at a camp in the future.
On the subject of "big", a funny thing happened once recently. We were working out, and someone came into the room and asked if they could borrow a piece of equipment. They had the most sheepish look, and walked cautiously to and from the equipment area. The reaction seemed...strange. I don't try to look intimidating if someone is being polite and respects our space and time. I don't come across as a thug, being built a lot like Gary, affable, and maybe an inch or two shorter.
And then I went back to working with...Oh yeaaaa...Tony! I was so used to him being just "Tony", that I had forgotten what a beast he really was. Yes, size has its advantages. Nobody ever broke into my apartment when I had my Great Danes, never mind the fact that they'd probably pee on themselves if someone ever broke in.
Oh and the bit about the music...you are warming my heart! I'm a big believer that music has a positive contribution to the practice of a martial art. There are so many parallels that I lose track at times. When I start working with people, I can always tell who has played an instrument (or sang or danced) and who never broached the subject. Some things - like impeccable and complex timing - are difficult to teach strictly in the venue of the karate dojo.
In general...
I really like the thought processes going on here. I tend to agree with much of what people are bringing out. And the comments by Lenny about working out under less-than-ideal conditions strike a chord. One of the more revealing things I take note of is how people respond to prearranged kumite going awry. I take pride in the fact that I can react appropriately and in an unthinking manner to an "incorrect" move in a bunkai, or nail someone right on the target (and not stop there...) when they make the wrong block to my prearranged attack. So often you see people hung up on the sequence and not the fundamentals, or attacking the blocks. Somewhere...somehow...you start to internalize it all and things just happen as your intent dictates. Yes, it's important to be "forgiving" of new students that need to learn. But at some point, the best prearranged kumite and bunkai are the ones done among advanced students where the attacks are real, things go wrong, and the whole thing continues on as if that's the way it's supposed to be. It takes a long time to teach people to make that leap, and I'm not sure where my spontaneous responses come from when they do happen as they should. But boy does it feel good when it happens!! That's what people should be focused on at the next level. It reminds me a bit of the old analogy of the moon vs. the finger pointing at it. It also reminds me a bit of the jazz musician who can take the theme and run with it - in perfect harmony with the band around him/her.
But along the line of being in harmony, I find that at times there are junctures in the style where one truly creates...issues. For instance, I've had a bit of an epiphany in the last two years about traditional blocks and blocking. I've seen people rarely use circle blocks in their "sparring". I've seen Gary's explanations of it in person (and video). I think he's on to something, but I disagree with his final conclusion. I've been exposed to the whole kyusho crowd, and hammered in the adage that blocks can be (and are often) attacks. But...not really the same way some folks think when they try to do a wauke as if they think they're ripping your arm off.
And then we get to this whole kotekitae thing...
I feel like a s***, but I am in quiet rebellion with my instructor. Something so tiny and niggling as how you do the first movement in arm pounding. I feel like I have to humor test boards and do the first movement as they do it - as a lateral block/strike done the way of the traditional chudan uke. But...nobody really "blocks" like that either when they spar, do they? No, they...parry. And then of course they try to score the point and win the match. Sheeesh, no wonder we never really learn this karate stuff.
As I see it, the parry - quick and effective - sets up this motion that others call a "block". And what it really should be is an "attack" (as in the traditional chudan “uke”) or a grab subsequent to control and destruction (as in the wa - "uke"). So what does that have to do with kotekitae? Well...I like to parry, and then do the first hit. And interestingly enough, I see the Toyama people taking it to the next level, where they glance down the arm (exciting a long stretch of the radial nerve) as opposed to just smacking the radius.
So what does that do? It creates a dilemma where I have to be quietly different and grumble under my breath. I am so indignant because I think the rest of the karate world has missed the point and/or the Okinawans de-fanged an important piece of our karate regimen to keep the gaijin from learning the good stuff.
And I know I'm not alone on that quiet indignance, am I?
Forget the specific issue. There's a time to be broad minded and a time to sense that differences are substantive. There's a time to accept a broad collection of interpretations, and a time where one is truly hitting on or missing the point. There are many things that can divide us on the practice end. Some things should, and others shouldn't.
- Bill
I wish you were around to work with my Tony. There aren't many big boys like him, and you sound about right. I'm one of the few who can really let Tony cut loose, but he hurts me now and then when I'm not careful (try stopping a 310 lb. plus coordinated beast some time...). Anyhow, he spends lots of time in another state these days from job considerations, but maybe we can get you guys to have fun at a camp in the future.
On the subject of "big", a funny thing happened once recently. We were working out, and someone came into the room and asked if they could borrow a piece of equipment. They had the most sheepish look, and walked cautiously to and from the equipment area. The reaction seemed...strange. I don't try to look intimidating if someone is being polite and respects our space and time. I don't come across as a thug, being built a lot like Gary, affable, and maybe an inch or two shorter.
And then I went back to working with...Oh yeaaaa...Tony! I was so used to him being just "Tony", that I had forgotten what a beast he really was. Yes, size has its advantages. Nobody ever broke into my apartment when I had my Great Danes, never mind the fact that they'd probably pee on themselves if someone ever broke in.
Oh and the bit about the music...you are warming my heart! I'm a big believer that music has a positive contribution to the practice of a martial art. There are so many parallels that I lose track at times. When I start working with people, I can always tell who has played an instrument (or sang or danced) and who never broached the subject. Some things - like impeccable and complex timing - are difficult to teach strictly in the venue of the karate dojo.
In general...
I really like the thought processes going on here. I tend to agree with much of what people are bringing out. And the comments by Lenny about working out under less-than-ideal conditions strike a chord. One of the more revealing things I take note of is how people respond to prearranged kumite going awry. I take pride in the fact that I can react appropriately and in an unthinking manner to an "incorrect" move in a bunkai, or nail someone right on the target (and not stop there...) when they make the wrong block to my prearranged attack. So often you see people hung up on the sequence and not the fundamentals, or attacking the blocks. Somewhere...somehow...you start to internalize it all and things just happen as your intent dictates. Yes, it's important to be "forgiving" of new students that need to learn. But at some point, the best prearranged kumite and bunkai are the ones done among advanced students where the attacks are real, things go wrong, and the whole thing continues on as if that's the way it's supposed to be. It takes a long time to teach people to make that leap, and I'm not sure where my spontaneous responses come from when they do happen as they should. But boy does it feel good when it happens!! That's what people should be focused on at the next level. It reminds me a bit of the old analogy of the moon vs. the finger pointing at it. It also reminds me a bit of the jazz musician who can take the theme and run with it - in perfect harmony with the band around him/her.
But along the line of being in harmony, I find that at times there are junctures in the style where one truly creates...issues. For instance, I've had a bit of an epiphany in the last two years about traditional blocks and blocking. I've seen people rarely use circle blocks in their "sparring". I've seen Gary's explanations of it in person (and video). I think he's on to something, but I disagree with his final conclusion. I've been exposed to the whole kyusho crowd, and hammered in the adage that blocks can be (and are often) attacks. But...not really the same way some folks think when they try to do a wauke as if they think they're ripping your arm off.
And then we get to this whole kotekitae thing...
I feel like a s***, but I am in quiet rebellion with my instructor. Something so tiny and niggling as how you do the first movement in arm pounding. I feel like I have to humor test boards and do the first movement as they do it - as a lateral block/strike done the way of the traditional chudan uke. But...nobody really "blocks" like that either when they spar, do they? No, they...parry. And then of course they try to score the point and win the match. Sheeesh, no wonder we never really learn this karate stuff.
As I see it, the parry - quick and effective - sets up this motion that others call a "block". And what it really should be is an "attack" (as in the traditional chudan “uke”) or a grab subsequent to control and destruction (as in the wa - "uke"). So what does that have to do with kotekitae? Well...I like to parry, and then do the first hit. And interestingly enough, I see the Toyama people taking it to the next level, where they glance down the arm (exciting a long stretch of the radial nerve) as opposed to just smacking the radius.
So what does that do? It creates a dilemma where I have to be quietly different and grumble under my breath. I am so indignant because I think the rest of the karate world has missed the point and/or the Okinawans de-fanged an important piece of our karate regimen to keep the gaijin from learning the good stuff.
And I know I'm not alone on that quiet indignance, am I?
Forget the specific issue. There's a time to be broad minded and a time to sense that differences are substantive. There's a time to accept a broad collection of interpretations, and a time where one is truly hitting on or missing the point. There are many things that can divide us on the practice end. Some things should, and others shouldn't.- Bill
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Bill Glasheen
- Posts: 17299
- Joined: Thu Mar 11, 1999 6:01 am
- Location: Richmond, VA --- Louisville, KY
Who owns The Holy Grail?
Lori
These were strictly rhetorical questions, designed to make people think and to promote thoughtful discussion. Nevertheless, I understand when you communicate without communicating. Thanks, "radar."
To All
It definitely has been a full moon. Other than the fact that life has been chaotic for me and I've barely gotten on my own forum (much less others' until just last night), I noted an interesting news story last night. Apparently on Tuesday evening (with I believe the full moon and a lunar eclipse) there was an Emergency Room admission crisis in the greater Richmond area. The pattern of disease wasn't remarkable other than the fact that there were so many calls and - of course - we are deep into influenza season. It was the first time they initiated an emergency ambulance triage system that rerouted ambulances to the ERs that had space. And of course there is always talk about the relationship between the lunar cycle and the level of activity in the ER.
And so I come in this morning to see traces of what appears to be a mess. No...I don't blame things on the moon, although it is tempting.
Things are never as simple as they appear on the surface, and this situation is most definitely no exception. Nevertheless, groups are rarely functional unless individuals are willing to be accountable. I will not erase the thread above as I believe the topic is valid and I would like any doubters to read it intact. Those who know me will understand my sincerity. Those with sensitivities will see things differently. Nevertheless, appearances and sensitivity are issues that a responsible person must attend to.
This thread is about issues, and not about individuals. These are extremely important issues that never go away in the martial world. Because individuals are involved and the topic is contemporary, it is pointless to discuss without reference to those who already are topics of discussion in the martial world. Because the issues affect us all and the way we will practice our karate in the future, I feel compelled to participate. I will continue to voice my thoughts where I feel I can make a positive impact. But it is very clear that - in this case - I am guilty of poor execution.
I sincerely regret any harm I have caused.
I welcome any comments from those who may have questions about the topic, or issues with the way I have handled things. And thanks to Lori, one other e-mailer, and George for some very productive communication. Without that, we are all lost.
- Bill
These were strictly rhetorical questions, designed to make people think and to promote thoughtful discussion. Nevertheless, I understand when you communicate without communicating. Thanks, "radar."
To All
It definitely has been a full moon. Other than the fact that life has been chaotic for me and I've barely gotten on my own forum (much less others' until just last night), I noted an interesting news story last night. Apparently on Tuesday evening (with I believe the full moon and a lunar eclipse) there was an Emergency Room admission crisis in the greater Richmond area. The pattern of disease wasn't remarkable other than the fact that there were so many calls and - of course - we are deep into influenza season. It was the first time they initiated an emergency ambulance triage system that rerouted ambulances to the ERs that had space. And of course there is always talk about the relationship between the lunar cycle and the level of activity in the ER.
And so I come in this morning to see traces of what appears to be a mess. No...I don't blame things on the moon, although it is tempting.
Things are never as simple as they appear on the surface, and this situation is most definitely no exception. Nevertheless, groups are rarely functional unless individuals are willing to be accountable. I will not erase the thread above as I believe the topic is valid and I would like any doubters to read it intact. Those who know me will understand my sincerity. Those with sensitivities will see things differently. Nevertheless, appearances and sensitivity are issues that a responsible person must attend to.
This thread is about issues, and not about individuals. These are extremely important issues that never go away in the martial world. Because individuals are involved and the topic is contemporary, it is pointless to discuss without reference to those who already are topics of discussion in the martial world. Because the issues affect us all and the way we will practice our karate in the future, I feel compelled to participate. I will continue to voice my thoughts where I feel I can make a positive impact. But it is very clear that - in this case - I am guilty of poor execution.
I sincerely regret any harm I have caused.
I welcome any comments from those who may have questions about the topic, or issues with the way I have handled things. And thanks to Lori, one other e-mailer, and George for some very productive communication. Without that, we are all lost.
- Bill
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Scott Danziger
- Posts: 929
- Joined: Thu Sep 17, 1998 6:01 am
- Location: Long Island
- Contact:
Who owns The Holy Grail?
I guess being a kyu, knowing my karate *****, and having no real political bias towards any Uechi group, subgroup or whatever, I never thought of Bill's "original" post to be insulting towards anybody. I read it as an internal thought process trying to examine the differences in the techniques between different groups and why they exist. How did it get that way.
I too would like to know why Toyama's Uechi style is different from Kanei's. Maybe Kanbun taught it differently to different people.
If I was taught by any one of you seniors one on one or in a small group to perform katas or whatever techniques a certain way pertaining to my body size, ability, or whatever parameter you deem fit, wouldn't it be possible I may teach it that way to someone else?
Now to really piss somebody off (Though that is NOT my intention).
How does anyone on this earth even know if Kanbun taught karate the way he was taught by Chou Tzu Ho? Most of you "seniors" have studied with your own teachers longer than he did with his. And even that has evolved over the years. Is your karate the same as it was when you guys were shodans or nidans?
Kanbun was in China for only 10 years. And, if the stories we read are true, he was not being taught that entire time. He went out and taught on his own. When he came back from China he didn't even teach for a while. So who was correcting him?
Another point to ponder (while pissing someone off I'm sure)...
Many of you have studied for so many years that you may even have more study hours under your belts than some "masters" on Okinawa. Why do we hold Okinawa as the know all of Uechi karate (or any style for that matter). Is this a genetic thing? Heck... GEM has been studying for more years than I have been. And I'm 42. In 30 years from now when George may finally retire, do we rename the style to Mattson ryu? Why not. We don't call this Shushiwa ryu. And why is that anyway?
As for differences, I like to think of GEM's baseball analogy. Why do most players pitch differently and swing a bat differently? Why do different teams use different strategies. If they are playing the same game shouldn't they all be doing it the same way. Look at some of them batting stances. Does anybody run out onto the field and tell them "Your stance is too wide, don't choke up, step closer to the plate, don't bend your knees so much"? They do what is best for them. So why is Uechi karate or any karate so different. You are taught to punch in the most effective way just as a baseball player is not taught to swing his bat into the ground if he wants to hit a ball.
So.... when someone of 30 years experience, or 2 months experience has a question as to why this is this way for this group and another group does it that way, why is there this sudden implication of insult or disrespect?
That's where the bridges get burned. Too many damn egos and feelings of superiority. Sometimes it's like reading a kungfu movie here. (I believe I mentioned this years ago).
"What? You dare question my kungfu? Your kungfu is not even fit for dog. I'll show you. And I will close your school and kill your master."
I may be wrong on this but my thought on the title of "Who owns the Holy Grail" was kind of obvious. There IS NO HOLY GRAIL.
As has been said all along. There are only differences.
I do hope the information from Okinawa on the history of Uechi ryu from Toyama sensei's perspective keeps coming through. I do find it fascinating. However, we all have every right to ask questions because this is after all new information most of us have never had access to. Sort of like A Catholic being exposed to other forms of Christianity like Protestants, Lutherans, Pentecostal, Baptists, etc... you get the picture. Put yourself in that group and wonder why do "they" do "this" when we were taught to do "that". Isn't it the same God? All believe in the same Jesus?
And one more rant...
Why, if some of you seniors have been studying and teaching for so many years, haven't come up with some new innovations to the style. Kanei did it. Didn't also Takamyagi and a few others? How many years were they studying for before they did that? What about what they passed on to their students. Just like I read on the UVa site about Bill's kicking drill being added. Won't those students pass that on to their students and so on? Hey the engine in a Model T was great when it first came out too. Want one in your car now?
I apologize for my soapbox ranting and rambling. Unfortunately, I do not have the same articulate skills Lori does when trying to express myself. I just get pissed off when people demonize and censor the opinions of others where there is an absence of personal offense. Just a perception of one.
If the written word cannot be understood the way it was supposed to be presented... I can always digitize any audio you want to submit and we can post our messages that way.
Scott
------------------
VISIT:
Uechi-Ryu.Com Streaming Video & Audio
The Uechi-Ryu.Com Hotlist
Taking Charge - Cable TV & Video Martial Arts Show
I too would like to know why Toyama's Uechi style is different from Kanei's. Maybe Kanbun taught it differently to different people.
If I was taught by any one of you seniors one on one or in a small group to perform katas or whatever techniques a certain way pertaining to my body size, ability, or whatever parameter you deem fit, wouldn't it be possible I may teach it that way to someone else?
Now to really piss somebody off (Though that is NOT my intention).
How does anyone on this earth even know if Kanbun taught karate the way he was taught by Chou Tzu Ho? Most of you "seniors" have studied with your own teachers longer than he did with his. And even that has evolved over the years. Is your karate the same as it was when you guys were shodans or nidans?
Kanbun was in China for only 10 years. And, if the stories we read are true, he was not being taught that entire time. He went out and taught on his own. When he came back from China he didn't even teach for a while. So who was correcting him?
Another point to ponder (while pissing someone off I'm sure)...
Many of you have studied for so many years that you may even have more study hours under your belts than some "masters" on Okinawa. Why do we hold Okinawa as the know all of Uechi karate (or any style for that matter). Is this a genetic thing? Heck... GEM has been studying for more years than I have been. And I'm 42. In 30 years from now when George may finally retire, do we rename the style to Mattson ryu? Why not. We don't call this Shushiwa ryu. And why is that anyway?
As for differences, I like to think of GEM's baseball analogy. Why do most players pitch differently and swing a bat differently? Why do different teams use different strategies. If they are playing the same game shouldn't they all be doing it the same way. Look at some of them batting stances. Does anybody run out onto the field and tell them "Your stance is too wide, don't choke up, step closer to the plate, don't bend your knees so much"? They do what is best for them. So why is Uechi karate or any karate so different. You are taught to punch in the most effective way just as a baseball player is not taught to swing his bat into the ground if he wants to hit a ball.
So.... when someone of 30 years experience, or 2 months experience has a question as to why this is this way for this group and another group does it that way, why is there this sudden implication of insult or disrespect?
That's where the bridges get burned. Too many damn egos and feelings of superiority. Sometimes it's like reading a kungfu movie here. (I believe I mentioned this years ago).
"What? You dare question my kungfu? Your kungfu is not even fit for dog. I'll show you. And I will close your school and kill your master."
I may be wrong on this but my thought on the title of "Who owns the Holy Grail" was kind of obvious. There IS NO HOLY GRAIL.
As has been said all along. There are only differences.
I do hope the information from Okinawa on the history of Uechi ryu from Toyama sensei's perspective keeps coming through. I do find it fascinating. However, we all have every right to ask questions because this is after all new information most of us have never had access to. Sort of like A Catholic being exposed to other forms of Christianity like Protestants, Lutherans, Pentecostal, Baptists, etc... you get the picture. Put yourself in that group and wonder why do "they" do "this" when we were taught to do "that". Isn't it the same God? All believe in the same Jesus?
And one more rant...
Why, if some of you seniors have been studying and teaching for so many years, haven't come up with some new innovations to the style. Kanei did it. Didn't also Takamyagi and a few others? How many years were they studying for before they did that? What about what they passed on to their students. Just like I read on the UVa site about Bill's kicking drill being added. Won't those students pass that on to their students and so on? Hey the engine in a Model T was great when it first came out too. Want one in your car now?
I apologize for my soapbox ranting and rambling. Unfortunately, I do not have the same articulate skills Lori does when trying to express myself. I just get pissed off when people demonize and censor the opinions of others where there is an absence of personal offense. Just a perception of one.
If the written word cannot be understood the way it was supposed to be presented... I can always digitize any audio you want to submit and we can post our messages that way.
Scott
------------------
VISIT:
Uechi-Ryu.Com Streaming Video & Audio
The Uechi-Ryu.Com Hotlist
Taking Charge - Cable TV & Video Martial Arts Show
Who owns The Holy Grail?
Scott, I empathize. I suspect it ain't only the kyu's that may be confused by all the tension going on but the non-kyus, dans and nondans too. I fit right in there. 
<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Is the grail useful full or empty?
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Can I quote myself? We are the grail. Some of us have filled our cup or near it. And it it works, then that's fine. Some are still filling and are opened to mixing other drinks/nectar/vinegar in there. That's fine too.
Think of what and why you're practicing. Has it worked for you? Yes. Great! Respect that. But respect that it may work differently for someone else. Allowing for differences doesn't diminish the efficacy of what one knows and has experienced for oneself. If you suspect there may be a better way for you, ain't no harm in exploring either. Again, that doesn't necesarily diminish what you were taught nor the person who taught it.
Ooh... The moon is up. Gotta go howl.
david
I suspect it ain't only the kyu's that may be confused by all the tension going on but the non-kyus, dans and nondans too. I fit right in there. <BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Is the grail useful full or empty?
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Can I quote myself? We are the grail. Some of us have filled our cup or near it. And it it works, then that's fine. Some are still filling and are opened to mixing other drinks/nectar/vinegar in there. That's fine too.
Think of what and why you're practicing. Has it worked for you? Yes. Great! Respect that. But respect that it may work differently for someone else. Allowing for differences doesn't diminish the efficacy of what one knows and has experienced for oneself. If you suspect there may be a better way for you, ain't no harm in exploring either. Again, that doesn't necesarily diminish what you were taught nor the person who taught it.
Ooh... The moon is up. Gotta go howl.
david
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gmattson
- Site Admin
- Posts: 6073
- Joined: Wed Sep 16, 1998 6:01 am
- Location: Lake Mary, Florida
- Contact:
Who owns The Holy Grail?
It takes a lot of guts to admit you made a mistake and correct it. We all err, but some of us are unable to swallow our pride and admit we are human and capable of screwing up.
Bill's unintentional wording in the initial post was not appropriate. We have been attempting on these forums to mend fences and demonstrate our willingness to embrace different concepts and interpretations of our Uechi-ryu. Certainly, we can discuss issues and our feelings about techniques, applications, mindset and thousands of other topics. But we should be very careful when linking our views with any individual in a negative manner. This will cause an justifiable uproar among those who interpret the post as a criticism or political slam. When this happens, the issue becomes secondary to the inappropriate although unintentional slur.
I hope everyone will interpret Bill's editing his initial post as a genuine attempt to right what was a regrettable error of judgment. Eating humble pie is difficult for us macho warriors. In my eyes, Bill's admission was the right thing to do and I thank him for his effort.
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GEM
[This message has been edited by gmattson (edited January 12, 2001).]
Bill's unintentional wording in the initial post was not appropriate. We have been attempting on these forums to mend fences and demonstrate our willingness to embrace different concepts and interpretations of our Uechi-ryu. Certainly, we can discuss issues and our feelings about techniques, applications, mindset and thousands of other topics. But we should be very careful when linking our views with any individual in a negative manner. This will cause an justifiable uproar among those who interpret the post as a criticism or political slam. When this happens, the issue becomes secondary to the inappropriate although unintentional slur.
I hope everyone will interpret Bill's editing his initial post as a genuine attempt to right what was a regrettable error of judgment. Eating humble pie is difficult for us macho warriors. In my eyes, Bill's admission was the right thing to do and I thank him for his effort.
------------------
GEM
[This message has been edited by gmattson (edited January 12, 2001).]
