On Grieving, Dying and Living – Quotes and Resources

Two fathers of adult members of the dojo have passed away.  One, ten days ago in his sleep.  A kind, soft-spoken and gentle figure who would visit regularly to watch his two

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Reflections on Meditation – Part 2: Some Experiences and Catching the Ninja

I reflect on some of my experiences along this journey of meditation.  Like a travel guide, perhaps this may be useful for those starting or considering to start the journey.  Though

“Kendo in Japanese Martial Culture: Swordsmanship as Self-Cultivation” – Jeffrey Dann’s Ph.D. Thesis

I came across some old notes regarding a Ph.D. Thesis which investigated kendo from a cultural perspective that I had read many years ago.  If you are interested in a

A Paper Napkin and Saving $50M – Deautomization and Getting Unstuck

When aware, we are no longer robots. – Young, KendoNotes

Here’s two stories on the topic of deautomization and getting unstuck from automated patterns of behaviors: one about a paper napkin and a second on saving 50 million

The Mirror in the Heart of Master Swordsmen (and Jedi Masters) – Quotes

Many master swordsmen and revered kendo teachers mention the importance of having a heart with a clear mirror.  That with such a mirror, one can intuit the heart and

Awareness and Who is this ‘I’? – Quotes and Resources

What you’re looking for is that which is looking. – St. Francis d’Assisi

Thanks to meditation and many teachers, this mind has come to a growing realization.  That meditation, zazen and aspects such as peace (平常心, heijoushin), freedom from

From Over-eating to Intuitive Eating

A student asked for advice related to eating.  He was struggling with over-eating and its associated complications to his weight, health and ability to do kendo.