We've been asked to prepare a fifteen minute presentation for an Aoinagi Karate-Do exam on June 23, 1996. My physical health was a little lacking at the time I started preparing for this exercise, and further discussion of the assignment called for something that could be presented in brief chunks of time throughout the testing day.
I've elected to write mini-essays exploring my involvement with Aoinagi Karate. Some are intended to share light-hearted and amusing aspects of its influence upon my life that may not always surface at the dojo. Other discussions attempt to share how I apply principles of Aoinagi Karate in my daily life, and why I'm still around and interested after more than fourteen years of training.
If an Aoinagi Karate test is an attempt to accurately assess how a student is progressing along the path of learning and personal growth, I figure these essays will be kind of like a handwriting-sample. I'll do my best to present honest and interesting material given the three hours on Saturday I've set aside to write. Beyond my control, these essays will probably reveal aspects of my personality, attitude, and development that may not be obvious from watching my Kata or talking with me.
Welcome to a window on my brain, through which I'm showing you a few things on purpose but you're probably getting a glimpse of a whole lot more. Now I've just got to figure out how to present these things in an interesting manner beyond just handing you something to read...