Monday, January 26, 2009

New Hampshire, Part 2



Hanshi Richie Bernard came to Steve White's studio as Jack Nilon and I were wrapping up our seminar on the six-step problem solving process which we illustrated through scenarios based on two-man attacks. As we taught how to take a standard technique and apply its parts by splitting them to handle the attack, Hanshi Bernard was patiently waiting in Steve's office.


He came out as we were bowing out the 50+ member class and Mr. White asked them to sit. He introduced his guest as a tenth-degree black belt in traditional Japanese karate and that he had a special recognition for me, one surprised instructor. I should mention at this point what a Hanshi is. The organization he belongs to is the Shidokan International. Shidokan translates as the "House of the Scholar-Warrior who follows the Way". The following description is from his group.


Shidokan International recognizes the growing experience of its members using the traditional teaching titles found in Japan. These titles are earned through dedication to karate and to the dojo, and are recognized around the world:
Shidion
“Assistant Instructor” - One who assists the teacher on a consistent basis. May be attained below Black Belt.
Sempai
“Senior Student” - Typically a Black Belt responsible for teaching a class.
Sensei
“Teacher” - Not only a teaching title, but the most often used term in Japanese to denote teacher.
Renshi
“One who Knows” - An internationally licensed teacher who takes on major responsibility within a dojo. Typically 4th Dan or higher.
Kyoshi
“One who Teaches Teachers” - A teacher who goes beyond his own training and teaching, and helps develop other teachers and other dojos.
“One who Teaches” - Usually 6th or 7th Dan with 20 to 25 years of experience, on the way to becoming a master.
Hanshi
“A Model for the Whole” - Reflects mastery of the physical side of karate, but also the understanding and ability to teach at all levels. This title also recognizes the master's lifelong commitment to living the karate code of conduct in all situations.
Chief Grand Master Instructor-minimum Rank in most cases Kudan (9th Dan)


The recognition was that he appointed me as a Hanshi and performed the traditional ritual that accompanies such an appointment. It is too long to be described here but it was recorded and some of you will be able to see it in the future. What I can tell you is that it came at a significant time in my life and is one of the highlights of my martial arts career. I never aspired to or expected such an honor and it staggers me to be designated as the Shidokan International group is recognized through the Japanese Ministry of Education.
The ceremony was laden with tradition and many points hit home, especially in the light of what has happened with the collapse of the Ft. Myers school here. Hanshi Bernard said that of the five demons that protect a dojo, the biggest, ugliest one is inside overlooking the floor because the biggest threat to a school comes from the inside.
This was a highlight in my martial arts career. Words are not enough.


1 comment:

Unknown said...

Congrats Sir! You deserve it. You have do a lot for the Kenpo community and for martial arts in general. Sorry I keep missing you in Connecticut, but at least I was able to meet you the first time. Hope to see you in March.