As we approach testing, I want to take a few minutes to explain what
testing is, and how I feel about it. I have a couple of articles up
on the website (Articles section) that also help explain testing,
please take some time to read through the articles on Progression in
Aikido and testing. http://www.emoryaikikai.com/articles.html

I have a very classical sense of aikido training. My martial
education was deeply embedded in traditional Japanese culture. I
grew up in an environment that ignores individual achievement and
rewards communal obligation. In my world my obligation is to honor
my sensei, my dojo, and my organization. "I" does not appear on the
list. In American culture, individual goals are generally considered
paramount, communal obligation is fast becoming a thing of the past.

Testing is individual recognition for dedication and committement to
training. Testing is your chance to show everyone how much to know
about aikido. Testing is your opportunity to publically demonstrate
your knowledge and skill.

I do not take testing lightly. Your rank and skill directly reflect
on me, my instructor and my instructor's instructor. The same can be
said for Michael. Emory aikikai represents direct lineage of aikido
that can be traced back to Saotome Sensei. You have big shoes to
fill, and I want to prepare you to fill them. I wholly expect every
student to realize the obligation they have to be the best they can
be.

You'll notice that this entire tirade I have not mentioned physical
skill. Aikido is not about physical skill, it is about sincerity and
truth. I will never judge a student by their skill on the mat, but
you can be damned sure I will judge you on your attitude and
sincerity.

I have said many times that you cannot hide who you are on the mat.
Testing is included in this statement. My advice to you is:
1. Face your test with courage. Testing can be scary and
intimidating.
2. Test with humility. You will not know everything, and you will not
test prefectly, get over it.
3. Relax and breath. You will be excited and nervous, RELAX!!

For those of you that Michael and I have not chosen to test, DO NOT
BE OFFENDED. We have carefully selected candidates for testing. I
promise you we are not insulting you, degrading you, or otherwise
ignoring you. The are many considerations that go into selecting
test candidates, only one of them is your physical skill. We have
our reasons, please trust they are good ones.

Since its no longer "PC" to beat students with a shinai, at least
allow me the courtesy of public ridicule through testing. It is my
honor to pass along what I know to you all, and I hope you are
learning something.