Shodan

One of my husband's interests-- more than an interest, really; more like an avocation-- is aikido. This is a martial art which originated in Japan; but it's unlike Tai Kwon Do, or others you might see on TV. There are no sudden strikes, punches or kicks; no training for attack, unless one is acting as uke (the designated attacker for practice). You won't see this covered on ESPN, either, as there are no competitions in the discipline. Yes, it's still both serious and effective-- as his sensei says, they can put the "harm" in "harmony" -- but that is not the focus.

A couple nights a week he drives down to the dojo and works out, flinging and being flung with a certain joyous abandon. He really enjoys it-- both the discipline of the art and the people with whom he shares it-- and has gotten to be quite good.

Next Saturday, March 5, he'll have the opportunity to see just how much progress he's made over the years, when he takes his shodan test. That's the Japanese term for first degree black belt, and is very much a milestone. The test will be during a seminar weekend at the dojo, and will be at the end of the afternoon training session that day. Visitors and spectators are more than welcome. So if you show up roughly around 3:00, you'll be able to see him in action.