Satori

                                                            Enlightenment or a Dream

To achieve "satori" is a personal experience based on awareness through our dedication and commitment to our training. Satori can only be experienced by accepting who and what we are in relationship to our existence in the Universe. It is through an unselfish understanding of life and the importance we place on our morals and values. Many a sacrifice has to be made, to achieve even the fundamental principles that lead to the proverbial "enlightenment".

Spiritual enlightenment cannot be taught or explained in a classroom or dojo. Following a religious order, gives many the chance to experience this concept of overwhelming love and rapport with the Universe. This path requires individuals of a special aptitude, capable of sacrificing a major part of their "earthly" lives to meet the demands of their chosen vocation. Religious vocations are not the only "paths" for seeking enlightenment but the essence of altruism must be present in whatever "way" we have chosen.

Martial arts may appear to contradict the morals and beliefs that we place on life. We are conditioned to believe that “martial" ways are an excuse to justify destroying life and developing individuals to become physically stronger than our fellow human beings. Physical strength is a quality for the survival of mankind but not at the expense of the weaker members of the human race because then it becomes a selfish acquisition. This "conditioning " has created a world of confusion, apathy, and aggressive attitudes with demanding expectations. We now take for granted the media reports of war and destruction that permeate every corner of the world. We accept the political and religious conflicts that leave the heart of human nature bare and exposed to further degradation. We have created a monster of drugs, violence, and dishonesty that is running amok in our own backyards. We find it easy to lie, cheat, and betray our morals because we have lost the strength, courage, and will to perceive the real us. Many cling to false hope and faith to survive the day and deny the existence of their spiritual selves.

The world may be in turmoil but it still survives and perhaps the balance of nature may not be perfect, there is still hope in the fact there are individuals who yearn to seek themselves and face the truth of life. They realize there are hidden "paths" that once discovered offer a chance for self-realization and therefore reach out to dimensions well above the acceptance and understanding of so-called normality. Most of these paths tend to be of Eastern origin and have maintained certain fundamental principles through their cultures which have resisted the dynamic advancement of Western concepts. Their evolution is like a great river that meanders calmly but with immense power as it flows through the forest of life. Whereas modern perception of life is like the mad rush of the proverbial rapids ferociously tearing away at the earth and rock, continually changing the environment of humanity.

It cannot be denied that most, if not all of the Eastern paths we understand tend to have a strong "martial" influence but they have their roots embedded deep into religious origins. In the early days, the discipline of these traditional beliefs required a physical approach. Certain techniques were developed to strengthen the body and promote good health. It was believed, that a healthy body promoted a healthy mind, leading, to a better understanding of the spiritual self. If the mind, was to be cultivated, then the body had to be refined.

Over time, numerous "techniques" were developed and became profoundly important in martial "ways". These movements became so refined that they were adopted by the military and slowly a significant change occurred that allowed the true essence of the spiritual side to be isolated. The legacy of these changes was inherited by the modern-day budoka, as they too tended to perceive the martial arts as a way to develop the physical self. They see martial arts as a way of self-defense or a means to indulge in the competitive aspect to acquire egotistical acknowledgment. Many feel that reaching the black belt level is the apex of their training. The spiritual side has become an unrealistic dream, only related to stories of the great warriors of the past.

Because today, much emphasis is placed on the physical side of martial training which is a sad reflection on the value we place on our existence. People appear to measure their worth on a materialistic level, which in turn, demonstrates the shallowness of our thoughts and actions. People want to take and never give unless there is a selfish motive.

No matter how sincere one's motives may be, it's difficult to find a dojo, that allows one to search past the superficial benefits of modern martial arts. However, there is a definite undercurrent of change as individuals begin, searching for the deeper meaning of budo and perhaps for a better understanding of life. True budo is not about defeating or conquering another.  It is not about winning or testing our competitive spirit. Budo is normally accepted as the study of "martial ways" however, in reality, it is the study of love, peace, and harmony. It is the study of life and the existence of the Universe.

The greatest budoka of this century was O’Sensei, Morihei  Ueshiba, founder of Aikido. He chose the name "Aikido" to emphasize the "essence" of his art. Ai means love, unity, and harmony. Ki means the essence of life in all its forms and the spirit of the Universe. Do, profoundly defines the philosophical path or chosen way. like many others, both before and after him, O'Sensei's initial training began in the study of the military arts, hence why so many techniques are so easily recognized by the martial arts practitioner. Sometimes this recognition quite often takes people off on a tangent. However, these techniques chosen by O'Sensei were for a reason, in the latter part of his life, he allowed his religious beliefs to mingle with his perception of "budo". Skeptics sometimes label Aikido as a form of religion as opposed to a martial way. True, Aikido can easily be referred to as a religion but it is a religion that is not a religion. It is a religion, with no boundaries - a universal concept that enhances all "religions" and beliefs.

O'Sensei, when he experienced his divine inspiration realized that through their spiritual enlightenment in budo, there was a way for every human being to seek their own enlightenment. He had no set rules or demands for others to follow "his" Aikido. This belief made aiki an open door for individuals to go through and perceive what they wanted to see. He realized that each person had their own "enlightenment" rather than copying his "path" and losing their, own individuality. It is this freedom that gives Aikido its uniqueness when compared to other "martial arts". It allows Aikido to grow and adapt in an ever-changing world while allowing the individual to make Aikido their "Aikido". It is not restrained by "style" or trapped in a rigid frame of techniques that restrict many other martial arts from flowering to full blossom. Takemusu is a term that aptly defines these principles when related to aiki as it means "the infinite fountain of creativity...". This humility and humbleness gave his followers the courage to have faith in him and what he represented by being loyal and devoted to the path of aiki.

He found a way for individuals to hone their characters to become better human beings. He never promised an easy route of self-discovery but left us a method of acquiring certain goals. He was humble and realistic enough to realize that if this was a true path, then he had to maintain the freedom of individuals to expand the philosophy of aiki - by allowing succeeding generations to continue to be more creative and hopefully steering the world off its path of self-destruction. Aikido is now practiced worldwide with different approaches and methods of guidance. Even the closest of O'Sensei's followers have adopted their "own" philosophies to promote Aikido but most have retained the essence of his original teachings. Some have brought in a competitive element; some have concentrated on the Ki aspect while others have retained the original jutsu techniques, as a basis for their study. Many place great emphasis on the sword because the roots of budo evolve around the symbolic and profound meaning the sword played in the evolution of Japanese culture. These are not wrong - because they still follow the teachings of O'Sensei in one way or another. As individuals, we have to choose a path that best suits our needs but unfortunately, we don't, in reality, have this choice and have to accept what is available. This is a hindrance, to how far an individual can be guided in their search for spiritual knowledge and experience. There is also a rivalry between schools which is sad because if we claim to do Aikido, then we should respect and accept all "styles" of Aikido. He represents the tree, we are the branches and the sap is the spirit that keeps the tree alive. To deny the tree we deny our existence.  Each sensei will endeavor to nurture their dojo to flourish and grow in "their" way, yet they will realize, that without the main trunk whose roots are embedded deep into the earth, they are nothing. One day every branch will spread to its limits and the tree will reach a new dimension as aiki will spread to cover the whole proverbial forest of life.

We are the seeds carried on the winds of human despair, pain, and an instinct of survival, taking responsibility for bringing new joy and creativity into a world so barren of inspiration. All who take and experience the wonders of aiki must have the courage, strength, and motivation to face, firstly ourselves before attempting to face the truth of life. We must first understand the true meaning of "ai" or love before we can even begin to understand the spiritual love that O'Sensei discovered and experienced in his "divine inspiration". we must cleanse our bodies, minds, and consciences of the negative emotions that have made us prisoners within ourselves. Aiki is only a path or way to reflect and lay bare our souls. It is then up to us to deal with ourselves with honesty.

Aikido "techniques" are important but only if we can look past the physical and apply the psychology of the technique to our lives. This is where we need the courage and honesty to understand who and what we are. Most aikidoka can reach a high level on a physical plane and strive in their faith and loyalty to their sensei to acquire the philosophy and psychology of "physical" movements. Those who are afraid of themselves or are unable to relate to trust and love will never be able to go past this stage and no doubt will find ways to justify their inadequacies. Unable to face the truth about themselves they will readily manipulate time and space to rationalize their existence, thinking they can mask the truth from everyone else. Hopefully, in time they may have to face themselves and return to the path of aiki, because if they don’t, they will destroy themselves and those close to them. By having faith in oneself, we can have faith in one's teacher who will use his knowledge to bring each "student" when the time is right, to a level of understanding so they too can contribute to the experience we all crave.

As mentioned, it is a difficulty that all teachers face trying to unite the concepts of body, mind, and spirit in a way that the students can relate to and appreciate. This is where psychology, patience, and perseverance are stretched to the limits and where the true motives and morals of the student are exposed.

The implications are only those whose morals and consciences are pure and who lead lives that borders on the sanctimonious, will have a chance to discover their inner selves. It doesn't mean, they are incapable of making mistakes, as long as they are made with a clear conscience and can face their mistakes. We have to learn from our mistakes to better understand rather than retreat into a cocoon of self-pity or try to defend our mistakes with self-righteousness.

Western or modern concepts tend to isolate the body, mind, and spirit as separate qualities, hence it is difficult to cope with the non-materialistic side of life. We can, up to a point, survive with these three qualities independent of each other but at what price to ourselves.

Perhaps a diagrammatic explanation will help to give a better understanding, of how one can perceive the importance of seeking "oneness" and therefore an acceptance that there is a way.

Let’s look at these three concepts....

BODY = PHYSICAL = Physical training through Aikido techniques to develop posture, flexibility, strength, coordination, etc.

MIND = PSYCHOLOGY = Evaluation of the physical and applying psychological elements that relate to who and what we are, i.e., distance, space, timing, commitment, the relationship between uke and nage -- trust, cooperation, compassion, etc.

SPIRIT = SPIRITUAL = The hardest to explain but as individuals understand the bonding of the body and mind in honest realization to experiencing the opening of the spiritual door. This can only be achieved by recognizing the faults and virtues of one's own self.

Most people can reach a physical peak and even accept the mental aspect, leading them to appreciate there could be a link between the three concepts without really grasping for the potential that lies within their grasp! A situation that gives individuals a confused perception of who they are and what they expect in life. A good teacher will be able to guide his student's understanding on a personal level to recognize the importance of bringing these three concepts together as one. Bringing all three concepts together as one - the physical, mental, and spiritual self then we begin seeing ourselves as a "whole" person

Another way of getting a better understanding is using the Yin/Yang symbol which shows that everything has an opposite and complementary side. There is a positive and negative to everything that exists in the Universe and none so profoundly as humanity. Female is the opposite of males just as night follows day, even manifesting in our emotions and attitudes. Listed below are several human emotions and virtues in their positive and negative form representing Yang and Yin, where M (positive) represents Yang and F (negative) represents Yin.

Another way of getting a better understanding is perhaps using the Yin/Yang symbol that shows that everything has an opposite and complementary side. There is a positive and negative to everything that exists in the Universe and none so profoundly as humanity. Female is the opposite of male just as night follows day and this even manifests in our emotions and attitudes. Listed below are several human emotions and virtues in their positive and negative form representing Yang and Yin, where M (positive) represents Yang and F (negative) represents Yin.

 

In the diagram below representing opposite and contrasting emotions, there, is a line that separates the Yin and Yang. If these emotions are too intense and refuse to recognize each other there will always be this separation. They might want to join but it will not be a complete symbol as shown in the following diagrams..

It would appear, that the above emotions would make a stable relationship impossible yet there has to be something there to make, the "Yin/Yang" symbol complete. A basic understanding of Yin/Yang philosophy might be useful in following the diagrams; however, I will simplify the explanation.

We know that love is a creative emotion and its opposite is destructive hatred. Attacks on love can be made with the emotion of hate. Love can defend truthfully with love but how can hatred justify defending against an "attack" of love? Likewise, one can be loyal to one who has betrayed but how can a betrayer relate to someone they have betrayed? This theory can be applied to all the positive and negative emotions respectively, leading to an interesting result. Basically; positive emotions can justifiably defend against any negative attack but negative emotions can't realistically defend against a positive "attack".

There has to be a common ground where Yin and Yang can marry and become "one" and the only way that can happen is for both to have a mutual understanding of the other, in other words, the little "dot" of the opposite.  If there was no common ground Yin and Yang would not be complete and grow in the opposite directions. Yang will rise and Yin will sink, one gets stronger and the other weak.

In the diagram representing opposite and contrasting emotions, a line separates the Yin and Yang. If these emotions are too intense and refuse to recognize each other, there will always be this separation. They might, however, want to join, but will not be a complete symbol as shown in the diagram above.

Using the emotions listed before, let’s take the word LOVE and its immediate opposite HATE. There has to be an emotion that relates to the two, an emotion that fills the shaded area in the diagram. JEALOUSLY, for example, can be the negative emotion of love but not quite the opposite. To experience JEALOUSY in HATRED implies that there is a "love" perhaps in a small way but then that can be a positive emotion of HATE. so, jealousy can be the "dot" that makes the Yin/Yang symbol whole by uniting the two extreme emotions that could replace "jealousy", depending on individual characters and personalities.  to reinforce the explanation let's take another word, for example - HONESTY and its opposite - LIES. If we make even the smallest of mistakes, we feel guilty, and then guilt becomes the negative "dot" of HONESTY.  However, if we have just the slightest feeling of guilt after LYING then it shows that there is a small chance that we have some honesty within us and guilt becomes the positive "dot" of LYING.  The common factor has to be an emotion that bonds the large positive and the large negative to form the whole Yin/Yang. It must be remembered that each person will have a different configuration of emotions that relate to the balance of Yin/Yang which is continually changing.

A true relationship between a man and a woman is related to this eternally changing balance of Yin and Yang. There could be times when the woman or the Yin may have to be stronger as she supports the weakness of her partner. Using the male/female analogy helps to get the point across but it is not to advocate that the only way to seek this "oneness is to find a partner! Just like in Aikido techniques, we have to look beyond the movements we share with our partner but it has to be an experience for ourselves too.

The love referred to is the spiritual love that encompasses the whole Universe but manifests in the souls and hearts of human beings. It brings an understanding of the Laws that govern the existence of life with our partners to make our earthly life complete (kimusubi), but we have to be complete within ourselves. We can, through each other love the world around us and live in harmony with nature (musubi).

In conclusion, evaluate ourselves through our emotions, attitudes, and personalities. This can be done with the true meaning of budo. Once we can accept the unity of body, mind, and spirit we have the key to opening the door of spiritual enlightenment, otherwise, all we have is an unrealistic dream.