Peace and Enlightenment

Rey N. Robles (Southern Maryland Aikido Center)

To me, Aikido is more than a physical engagement on the mat. I've learned that to fully experience Aikido there needs to be a connection made between the philosophy of O Sensei and the physical lessons taught in the dojo.

Early on in my training, I jumped head first into Aikido. I had a very limited understanding of Aikido's approach. All I was aware of was that Aikido was different and it looked very fluid. I thought I understood what it was all about. It was not until I started reading the writings of O Sensei that I could see the man and his vision. I started to understand the man and his approach. Many of the reasons why we train in a certain way were answered by his philosophy.

O Sensei said that Aikido is an art of peace. O Sensei was a man of peace who followed his spiritual and philosophical vision. He taught that the martial arts should be used as a means to live in harmony with the earth, ourselves and others. O Sensei developed Aikido to the less violent and gently flowing set of techniques. O Sensei's writings are full of wisdom and his approach in developing Aikido is geared towards Peace.

"As soon as you concern yourself with the "good" and "bad" of your fellows, you create an opening in your heart for maliciousness to enter. Testing, competing with, and criticizing others weakens and defeats you."

"In the Art of Peace we never attack. An attack is proof that one is out of control. Never run away from any kind of challenge, but do not try to suppress or control an opponent unnaturally. Let attackers come any way they like and then blend with them. Never chase after opponents. Redirect each attack and get firmly behind it." From Morihei Ueshiba's The Art of Peace

The idea of peace may seem to conflict with the practice of a Martial Art. You need to take a closer look at Aikido. If you take a close look at Aikido, you will notice that Aikido does not violate or conflict with any of the Philosophies or principles of O'Sensei. Aikido strives to be at the highest evolution of self defense. The Aikidoka does not initiate aggression. Without provocation, the Aikidoka strives to neutralize the situation with no harm inflicted on themselves or the attacker. The Aikidoka exercises control of themselves and the situation. They always strive to bring harmony to conflicts. Without this understanding Aikido can become empty and meaningless.

O Sensei took a lifetime to gain enlightenment. Enlightenment is a peace and calm of harmony between the physical and spiritual. O Sensei understood that conflicts are futile, life is precious and a harmonious life is a life well spent.

The next time you look at or train in Aikido, think about O Sensei, the man of peace. Look for his thoughts and philosophy in the techniques. Strive for an enlightened life.