Merry Christmas.... (And it's message in Kyokushin term).

Hi Everyone,

I still can't believe how quickly a year flies by.

We want to thank people who wish to remain anonymous but has continually supported me personally and Honbu.  You all have been struggling with your own definition of what truth is and I really appreciate that you  shared them with us, aside from being in separate organizations. That we had the chance to speak, the emails sent to us and as we wrote to you individually, it truly educated us and made us even more aware what is abundant and what is lacking in Kyokushin-Kai  today.

Thank you for embracing us  while we visit you overseas. I know some had bad experience in the past and it is hard to separate the "sloppy information" or gossip shall I say, to what actually really is.

Thank you for sharing with us all your love and dedication to Kyokushin Karate. Sosai always, always, always, had tremendous sense of gratitude that people trained his Karate, all over the world.

Sometimes, he would sit in his office late at night, just gazing at the 「極真」Kyokushin World Map . He said it was hard to believe that his karate extended beyond, ethnicity, religion and into so many countries!!!! He sometimes chuckled how some belittle him and said he was insane for wanting to publish an English version of his karate text book, thru a publisher in New York City! He said it only took a few who believed in him and most importantly, he believed in himself.

Today I want to share a little about (asteya) non- stealing.


When my father's idea of karate was hardly accepted or acknowledged (after he won the first all japan karate championship in Kyoto after WW2) he did what yogi's refer to as "non-stealing" . (Asteya, non-stealing, is one of the moral codes we practice along with the physical postures).
He educated and learned and self- taught himself by choosing a perfect teacher, Musashi Miyamoto as well living masters of karate and other budo.

He made himself competent by training, learning and self- inquiring. He made his own method and
system of karate and how the class ran within an hour and a half of training. He named it Kyokushin Karate and referred it as the society of "Ultimate Truth" on his Dogi or uniform. He trained his students, picked one's he felt was dedicated enough to share his teachings and expanded with hopes of his karate helping the individuals as well as people around them. He made many mistakes along the way and each time he fell, he brushed off the dust and moved on. He became so competent to handle his teachings that eventually, the word Kyokushin became synonymous with being the
strongest karate. Actually, that was the slogan of his movies based on Kyokushin and it's evolution.
His work exceeded the norm of success and became a brand.

Today, people use the brand but not all are competent. When any teaching is handled wrongly it leaves a ripple effect of negativity with the students. It scars them, scares them and inhibits their growth. Some prostitute the naming, the teaching worse is some do it intentionally. That is their incompetence that is hurting the essence, devaluing what Sosai and his original students had dedicated their life to.

My father's belief is so strong that even after his departure from this world, he is still leaving a strong message and influence.

Let's pray from this Christmas onwards to have his guidance so we may become competent as he
wishleads us to be.

Let's  represent his karate in a way that uplifts everyone, for that is what his karate stood for. (Not for selling and buying dans and shopping from group to group. Thank you ) .

Thank you.

In case I don't get to come back here and wish you all a very Merry Christmas, please let me wish you all Happy Holidays.

"A hundred times a day,

I remind myself that my inner and outer life
Depend on the labor of other people,

Living and dead,

And that I must exert myself
In order to give in the full measure I have received
And I am still receiving."

Albert Einstein.


Thank you so much for supporting Honbu. Even personally, I have been touched by so many
gracious gestures.

Have a great rest of the year!

Blessings,

K

Two Promises.

Hi guys,

Just sharing some thought here....

During my annual yoga conference and semiar where the instructors are being "re-evaluated" so to speak by senior teachers, I was given these wonderful advice.

1) DO NOT EXPECT FROM YOUR DAILY PRACTICE. Whatever we do, start each practice as the first and last practice, with no expectation. My teacher said, don't think oh, I did this better yesterday, or oh I am more flexible or  stiff today etc. Our mind is like a drunken monkey he said. lol. Needs lots of training to keep it still.

2) DO NOT TAKE CREDIT FOR YOUR PRACTICE. Don't think oh "I " did this and "I " did that.

What the hell is "I " anyway??? he said. Which was funny in a serious sort of way, because it was very true!


Have a great training or practice today!!!!

Om, Osu

Bloom.

"AND THEN THE DAY CAME

WHEN THE RISK TO REMAIN TIGHT IN A BUD

WAS GREATER THAN THE RISK IT TOOK

TO BLOOM."- Anais Nin

I came across this quote while I was visiting the States this year at a small shop downtown NY. I thought it was so sweet and it resonated a little with where we were heading, I felt, as an organization. I don't really like to say organization because often it is misunderstood as it being binding. It actually is not. Just like learning any art, musical instrument, yoga postures etc, we all learn the disciplinary side first. Without the discipline, there would be no real and true interpretation that you can express. It will bring chaos and confusion with out it. I feel very fortunate now to witness people rising from the chaos, which they originally had no control over, and embracing the responsibilities to benefit the whole. 

Interestingly my husband left for NY this morning. The up and coming Branch chief, Raul Dueno organized the trip for Kancho Suzuki. Raul, who has been training a long time and who has watched the birth of Kyokushin karate in New York is taking a step forward showing love of Sosai's Kyokushin Karate. It still astonishes me to this day, to witness how pervasive and influential my father was. It really touches my heart.

An end of a beginning. A beginning of an end.

This year was crazy!

Getting officially married to Suzuki after 17 some years is for one. The ups and downs we shared as family and building , protetcing Kyokushin was always our singular focus.

It was especially challenging when people who have no idea what is going on spread their opinion as if it is truth or blatantly lies about us.

But this also showed us that their take on other's are just as prone to delusional and flailing opinion... Lol.

So I learned to let it slide by. It was also great because it gave people the chance to once again speak to us in person.

It also taught us a great lesson. This whole process gave us the chance to know who we truly are and how we are utterly dedicated to Sosai 's Kyokushin, whether it is by our own choice or not.

I feel time is changing now in Kyokushin. The whole atmosphere is moving towards some form of "conformity". Being fake can only get people so far when something more deep, solid and truthful starts to arise.

Not all is  receptive to this change understandably, as this may not serve their own goal. But taking a step back and re-examining how the work is shifting, I think Sosai is directing it in the way he sees fit.

When things fall apart, there is only but one way- to go back up again, stemming from the same foundation.

I don't know why but I just feel it in the air.

Holiday Season (already????)

Wow how quickly time flies!

The highest knowledge.

Krishna said to Arjuna in one of the verse from the Gita.

"You know Arjuna, although your words are wise, they are not based in Truth. You really should not be grieving for these people you know, because those who are truly wise do not grieve for anyone- either living or dead. "Chapter 2:11.

I felt a lightening bolt strike my imaginary brain!!!! This verse helps me again and again, I stupidly forget you see? But this one verse contains the whole message of....  the most sacred knowledge. Because we are silly it will take me lifetime to fully absorb this and even oversee it most times, something dropped on me today. Change the view point and your world changes.


So, I just wanted to share with you all.... nothing new but it certainly made my day a lot better!

I hope everyone is having a fulfilling and joyous time preparing for the holidays etc....

My take on H.

Hasegawa Shihan.

People mention to me of his reign as the All Japan Champion.

I know that, I am aware. That was the whole bells and whistles of the Union.

Mr.Hasegawa was working for my mother and with her at the first floor office where the administration still takes place today. And so did Terutomo Yamazaki, the first All Japan Champion under Sosai. And there were many others. But other's do not use their title in a way that gets tarnished by their actions.  They certainly protect it and honor it to this day. Which is a contrast to what Mr. Hasegawa is doing, in my opinion.


Many great Kyokushin practitioners went their way and became independent.
And from what I can observe they are so grateful to Sosai and mother because they had to trod and pave the path that never were walked before. They are far more grateful to Sosai than those who still cling to the brand value of Kyokushin and abuse it.

My mother spoke fondly of Hasegawa.
That is why it disappoints us to see him do what he does today.

He was pivotal role for the Union with people. He was in the place to make a difference. And he was aware from the very beginning, not to have certain member's of the Union take part in the core decision making process.  Many advised him of his poor choice and selection but he ignored it.


And perhaps worse is he never seemed to have the gusto to make the change. That let the slime get around every corner and crevasse of what could have been a great concept.

And now for him to hop off to next. Where is the sense of accountability? Where is the responsibility ?

I can go on writing about this but...  There is no point.

Just quickly letting you all know where we stand, watching them.

No more abuse please.

"The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing." - Albert Einstein

What Hasegawa and Ooishi breaking up again and again, and again making another group using the name of Kyokushin is wrong, wrong, wrong. There is no justice no matter how well versed they speak about karate.

Someone illustrated their mess as an "ordained priest being a pedophile." Just because they are ordained does not equate them as being a saint.

Just because they were SOSAI 's student and branch chief in the past, it does not automatically make them righteous human beings.

It truly makes me sad to see the waste. And meanwhile unassuming students are being lured to them.

(>:<)

A Moral Obligation...

Long ago, when my father passed away a Japanese politician named Oouchi gave an interview to NHK and Asahi TV here in Japan.

He commented of Sosai's passing as one that:

"Japan lost one of the important cultural representative. Masutatsu Oyama was a man who not only thought of Japan for the Japanese, but thought intently of the Japanese Budo as a gem that passed down  but also was borrowed from future generation. He epitomized karate as the Japanese Budo to the world and extended into something that has never been done- at least not on the same par- as way of communication which broke all traditional barriers, as well as a path for self discovery. He introduced Kyokushin Karate which transcended race, religion, social status and most importantly, reminded us of what we Japanese were forgetting- to live with fervor of one's belief. He learned from everything, he was a sponge. He lived with much awareness- almost fearfully on missing out on something which flared with more passion to achieve his goal- to realize the ultimate strength in one self. Through all obstacles presented to him, he believed in fate. He was born to do what he had done and left. For Oyama Sosai, this was achieved by the karate he created, Kyokushin Karate. I will never forget his desire to help others who were as or more in state of deprivation. He was not born privileged but has given so much privilege to others through his karate. I have never met a man who was as openly imperfect and unbelievably personable as he was. And his perseverance and dedication and focus was astounding. I have never met a person who was so diligent with perfecting his belief and also so generous in sharing his accomplishments. He was such a charming man with an amazingly powerful aura, we were all energized in his presence. He changed the way I see myself and how I live my life. Masutatsu Oyama Sosai taught us to be proud wearing Kyokushin kai Dogi's even if we were not really karate-ka, as if it were something innate in us all. That the Budo was innate in all of us."
(Ouchi Keigo is a politician and former minister of health and welfare. He was one of the many politicians and writers Sosai had as board members of IKOK).

After years of being in court no amount of verdict, favorable can do justice for Sosai Masutasu Oyama's work of life and his influence to the people, both in and out of Kyokushin. It is just a stepping stone to making something better.

I cycled today to the Ministry, and I remembered what I loved about my Dad and my family. It really has so much to do with Kyokushin.

So signing up Sosai's writings and all of his creative work at the Ministry of Culture is a way of giving back to his Kyokushin again.

While I was cycling, I recalled one summer.... I think it was 1992 Summer Camp before the World Tournament in Yugawara Camp site. All the A-class fighters back then were there and I was so happy to see my father happy. I went the the onsen (hot spring) near by with Mother while they did their daily regime- including those endless, endless hours of just.... what seemed like twirling and kicking to me lol. My father watch so intently. It was his life- in moving form I guess, doing accordingly to what he- the God Hand the founder of those movements- were asking them to do. It is almost as if, there were no separation because Sosai understood them as someone on a path of fighting. I do not think his mindset was ever on sport competition... to him it was devotional fighting of the spirit. That can at times be present in tournaments.

If I shift my focus on that which brings me most joy when I think of my father and Kyokushin, I think all the nonsense will eventually evaporate. At least from my world. (^;^)

Blast back from Canada.

Ok, ok I know.

I will get my laptop and website going... Please be patient.

Just a quick update. Kancho and myself went to Canada this passed weekend!!! We had a great time with Shihan Joe Addesso and Sensei Laurier from Ottawa.

For more picture and information please visit Kancho Suzuki on his Facebook (Yoshikazu Suzuki) and Honbu website at Mas-Oyama.com

Hopefully I will get things going soon,....

Oh my GAWD I had this sitting in my draft box when I thought I already posted it!!! So sowwieee everyone.

Spilt Again???

Hi Everyone!

I received quite a few "updates" on a news that Japan Union Rengokai is splitting again, this time into Hasegawa/ Ooishi group. It is so interesting because they hated each other from all the years I have known them.

I am wondering what their purpose is. Motivation other than for their selfish, irresponsible reasons to make meager money and the consequences are always dire on the students. (And the one's who has to be responsible for the actions.)

To make the matter even harder to comprehend, they recruited the people who not just left Honbu, but has been expelled by Honbu. Cameron Quinn and few others. I guess they will recruit and grade anything, which always were the case with what I observed with the Rengokai over the years.

It is sad that little lessons been learned by these  people. They caused and continues to cause so much trouble in Kyokshin Karate and the in world of Kyokushin. The worst part is, they have no qualm about doing it.

Hasegawa and Ooishi were one of the key people who originally made the Union, stating many legal inaccuracies to lure members. However back then, we all hoped that they will do some justice... (Sigh).

I was certainly jubilant they tried to win their independence on their own. I felt they were trying to earn it, instead being handed to them, or more like, taking it is not theirs!!!


Rengokai had a nice mission statement which we wanted to believe in but did not take long for them to change course. We are no fortune tellers but it would not be difficult to predict similar pattern of behavior from these men.


"There are no short cuts to success."  - Will Smith.

Time Honored Remedy.

Hello everyone!

The past month and a half we were super busy organizing the memorial tournament of my father. As all the students arrived, it struck me about the word pilgrimage.

I left for India soon after my mother passed away in 2006. I needed my soul and my spirit to heal  .
What  I found with my visit to my Shala where Guruji resided was more profound that what was originally intended.

This year in particular I felt a stronger sense of unity within the organization.

Since the dawn of history, spiritual seekers have been making pilgrimages to sacred places often by traveling long way from home.

I watched the students pay their respect to where their teacher or their teacher's teacher had trained in, graded at and for others, though they never set foot in before but knew they always belonged to. The floor so many had sweated upon and time and again bled and cried, where right beneath their feet. Some opt to sleep in the Dojo with their sleeping bags feeling the need to nourish themselves in the presence of the shrine Sosai had it specially built for Honbu and Kyokushin Karate. It has the God of Creation, God of Intellect and God of Justice, as well as Sosai and Mother resting right where everyone trains.

A pilgrimage is not a stopover at some famous tourist spot. A pilgrimage is a journey of self-
discovery and the nature of that discovery is shaped by the site itself. We select that special place
because we look for a specific kind of experience, one that can only be spoken by those who experienced it. Just like Sosai always said, 実戦 is the key to everything. 

Share the LOVE. Mas Oyama Memorial Tournament.

What can I say? My father created such a great belief system that I am surrounded by wonderful people, because of him!

I've been running on too much coffee though...

There was something slightly different this year than the other in the past. There was an air of confidence in all the Honbu Committee members and the Branches and the Dojo's.

It was so nice to meet everyone. And the effort they put in to support the tournament, take the grading and really be proactive member of Kyokushin kaikan was so moving.

Mas Oyama Memorial Tournament....

Hello!

I am sorry for the missing in action. We are preparing for the September 16th Mas Oyama Memorial Tournament and we are just sooooo crammed with everything from tournament draws to visa applications to wiping the floor and reserving futons .... I feel like I am drowning...!
Not to mention Kancho Suzuki 's schedule is worse.... It is killer schedule and plus training....ha.....

Will keep you all posted in the coming days.....

Thanks for all the support.....~~~<

Time is....

"If you can count the amount of time you spent on each project on your fingers, you haven't spent enough time on it. You have to spend time on each of your project until you feel you can't count any longer.
You will hear many criticism,  negativism and hear "no" repeatedly.
It will get worse before it gets better. That is why I say don't ever give up. Focus on your emotional strength and learn to, if you dont have it, to cultivate emotional maturity. "


Advice given to moi, from The Boss at G. S.


Looking on my college days I wish I had enrolled in some class that could have backed me up in th situation I have been immersed in today!!!!! Fortunately, my employer, aka, The Boss, advised me this over the summer when I tried to take a "holiday". Lol.

Work Ethic.

"Gentleness doesn't get work done unless you happen to be a hen laying eggs."
              Coco Chanel

 It has been like going to law, business and charm school rolled into one for me! The education I have been receiving after my formal education finished, I owe so much to those who love and respect Kyokushin Karate through and through. Just a quick thank you.... 

A Beautiful Time....

Half of the year is already gone! Wow, it just seems like yesterday that we were doing Kagami Biraki (New Year Dojo opening held on January 11th).

The year has been quite interesting with great challenges and great rewards. It is learning about new methods and tactics and each day is a fun!

I am sorry i am not sharing picture's here... i am still working on my website but it is hard to do it along with billion other plans! 

it is still an uphill road but I am happy where I am right now. 

I went to visit my parent's grave and it reminded of all the experience of the last 18 years wash over me. .. it was kind of surreal and I felt so much gratitude. Which is strange, I know as I had some hard knocks!! 

Anyway just writing a quicky to let you know the small comments and email I get really motivate me and thank you for being all so sweet. 

"Blaming others does not solve anything. I take responsibility for everything I have created in my life. I am the creator of my life and my experiences." Louise Hay.

Have a great summer holiday!

Happy Fourth of July~~~!

Blessings to you all...! In any culture, our ancestor worked hard and paved the path for us to continue. I am giving my thanks to my parents for all the blessings they lefts us...

You Carry Who.

Hello everyone,

I just wanted to jot down couple things before going off on my day! Thank you so much for the supporting messages... it really helps me get thru tough times.

Remember you carry who you are in and from the dojo, the organization or any work place to personal space.

We had one member that was expelled last year. He continues to try and make his case. how he was done wrong. He goes on about his experience and what he did the last 30 years. yaddy yaddy ya... how he sent over 2000 emails for Honbu.

The funny thing is and that was pointed out to him was he did not pay ARF, did not have a dojo (but still called himself a Branch chief) and basically did nothing other than the "help" he was referring to. So we said EVERYONE, every branch, every dojo works hard for Honbu. It is wonderful and it is not just him.

 He was expelled for a very good reason; insubordination and having sexual relationship with the students mother. Ouch right? Well it happens and if there was remorse and reflection, Honbu would have been lenient I think.

Then he says the sexual relation he has is "personal" so it was not Honbu's business. Considering his student was a child in his kids class and the father always drove the son to the Dojo, this showed us his immaturity and had no concept of consideration.

The Honbu Committee revoked his status immediately had court injunction to have the Kyokushin banner removed and MOST importantly, Sosai's name and picture and the Dojo -kun removed from the premise where it was formerly known as his "Dojo".


You can't build your reputation on what you are going to do. ha....

The six's and Mother's memorial....

Hello everyone, Today is exactly six years since my mother passed away. She passed away on June 6th,2006 year of the Dog which was Sosai's Chinese Astrology sign! Exactly 12 years after my father passed away. I wrote an essay when she passed away which I will post it here later.

Why is "IKO Sosai" so small.

Hiya everyone,

Someone got worried reading the gossip in the cyber space! I told them not to worry but here you go....

One main reason is,  my mother always told me to respect my father's Branch chief's. Not the person but my father's choice. And she demonstrated this to me even when "respectable shihan's" (sorry, I can puke really saying it lol.) were lying in her name to collect money and speaking ill of her. My only thought about them was l-o-s-e-r-s.

So although we had many people here in Japan, under the older Shihan's make membership inquiries we did not want to take them, until we knew it was okay on their (the branch chief's)  side. Which was not very often.

And not like they helped us. But my mother showed me very intensely that we did not have to do what they do. We did not have to be one of them. And she did this with ease and grace.... while I was fuming and kicking the sand bag- mentally attaching their picture on it. (lol)

She also gently pointed out to me that 99% of them had nothing else if not for Kyokushin Karate. Although I think some of them take advantage of their "short coming", she was right.

However they did not "get it" that Mother was being lenient with them! They probably don't get it because it is not intrinsic to them. What can I say... even Jesus had Judas....(@+@)

Time change and nothing stands still. Everything must be experiential to make it your own and this was a great big lesson and a gift from my Mother to us.

The students at and the current Dojo Operators and Branch chiefs of Honbu is about experiencing"us". As we continue to respect my father and my mother's wishes, that will be what they adopt and adapt to. That is how the lineage is passed on.

Talking (and typing) "honoring Sosai" and "loyalty to Sosai" sometimes is done for their own promotion. That is why we surround ourselves with those who work to tread the path no one has treaded, rather than riding on coattail of other's and bicker to grab the credit.

The summation is, it is best to have one dedicated friend/student than a hundred that are clueless.

 It is a two way street of understanding and the goal is always one, for Sosai. (^^)/

What pushed me through....

Hi everyone,

 I get many emails about my blog posts but no one leaves comments!

That's ok, I guess I mostly have secret reader's... Hehehe...

 Whenever I got down and was close to giving up, I read what my father wrote in his book (of course) just like a lot of you. He was really about perserverance and knowing what is true.

 I also had this quote by Salma Hayek, the actor. She said this in one of her lecture and posted it in my office, up on my wall so I can look every time I felt discouraged.

 "How do you fight this level of ignorance? You don't- but if you are right, eventually you will over ride it. And if I don't, the next generation will. But you can never fall into the trap of thinking like them or putting importance on them. Embrace adversity with everything you have because it is your greatest teacher. Embrace with everything you've got. And learn from it. If they still try, ignore them, they don't know what they are talking about anyway. They will be proved wrong- as soon as someone takes the chance."

 I hope this inspires you too. It really helped me put things in perspective. Have a nice day~~~!

Finally, a start of a new beginning!

"In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity~ " Albert Einstein

Hi everyone~~!

 Finally I finished the very first baby step of IP's Protection and management which is enforceable to the full extent of the law! Now I just need to start working towards unifying the common threads .... I was so happy and excited I really could not sleep!

 I really want to thank all the people who just believed in me and supported Honbu regardless of what others said. If it were not for them and my family, I would have backed down long time ago.

And of course, my yoga. It will take as much time to finish the next phase but a thousand mile journey starts with a single step. I know I will be chugging along ....(:^^:)/

About Holland and "IBK".

Hello everyone,

I really want to write about the daily things in my blog! so sorry that it is now mostly about Kyokushin-related-political issues being addressed here...

I believe it is best that I have it straightened out than fabrication walking around, misinforming people.

Okay so about Holland and Mr. Jan de Bruin.

He left last year because Honbu appointed someone else as the representative of Holland. He tried to return stating that he was misled by another person's misinformation but simply it was not the right timing anymore.


The  fact is we always told him it is best to stay with what he knows because IKOK is far more strictly structured and it won't allow him to have "best of both worlds". He asked for a chance  and  promised he'd commit and will abide by rules. He was supposed to come to Japan but never did during his interim as Dojo Operator which was mandatory.

When we announced Willem's (the Dutch representative) new role, suddenly I was getting prompt emails from Jan and Nico. But Honbu did not see it fit to change Willem's role.

I wish him and Nico W, and  best of luck and hopefully the stories will not mislead people.

Also, I did not know what IBK was until I met Jon Bluming. And his explanation was it stood as international budo kai and had nothing to do with Kyokushin. See how easily fooled I was back then.

Just saying though, I liked Jan a lot the few times I met him. It is just one of those things that was not meant to be.

Mahalo~~~!

Q and A from USA.

Hello sorry for my MIA. I just wanted to straighten out some facts about the time when I resided in the US.

I lived with my sister while I was in high school. The only person who knew our address and met with us often was Jacques Sandalescu.

I wanted to write this because some people are insinuating that they "knew " me or my sister while we lived there but this is not true. Well,they may have heard of us but that is not really knowing us.

Sosai was very protective and only allow very few that he chose to know us and what we were doing.

Words of my perfect teacher 6.

Even our personal virtues, such as patience and our sense of ethics, are all developed in dependence upon others.


Dalai Lama....! 

If scheduling could kill....

Sorry !

I have been absolutely killing over my schedule.

I will be back soon and hopefully by that time I will have some good, healthy and happy news to share with you guys!

The Memorial Day.

Today is the 18th memorial of my father. Can't believe it, it feels like just yesterday Sosai was still with us.

Some picture's from the gravesite.

Sensei Anferov from Russia...

The memorial service is held this Saturday at Honbu. Because the next Buddhist ceremony is 23rd year, we have Shinto Ceremony every year at Honbu o(^▽^)o

WOMPT.

Love is the energizing elixir of the universe, the cause and effect of all harmony.

Rumi

Remembering the Battle.

I was just speaking to a friend after yoga, which oil is better for our skin, argan oil or emu oil. And I told her to opt for argan oil as it works on same things like your skin and maintaining healthy hair etc... but cruelty free. The emu must be killed first for the oil to be obtained.

This kind of reminded me why I am always trying to go for cruelty free products.

I recall one of the first (followed by many more) court hearings, I remembered it was so brutal. The other side basically comes in to verbally annihilate you and character assassinate you. It literally is the battle of words.

What was most surreal to me at the time was in one of the cases, which was up against Matsui San. At the time, everyone supported him and his case.  -_-
bTheir lawyers were all too prepared to kill off my mothers credentials. This case was about the Honbu building and that it belonged to the family, not him. It was weird. He was my father' s student and watching him interact with his lawyers with stack of proof on their desk, which looked more like an encyclopedia because of it's thickness, really hit me hard. It felt almost cruel. (He may sound like he is the only villain but that is not the case. Many supported him when it suited their needs. )

When my mother took the stand, his lawyers were all fangs and claws. What saved my spirit at the time was the Judge's humanness. After slightly ignoring the mockery made on my Mother by the defense, the Judge waved away the stack of "proof", he turned to her and asked in a gentle, kind manner. "Mrs. Oyama. Can you tell us who built the Honbu Dojo?" and she replied with a smile, "my husband and I did." and he just nodded in agreement with her.

It was such a humane way how this Judge handled the case as well as how he handled Matsui's lawyers, that I was thankful there was that integrity in the judicial system.

We can try and opt for cruelty free as much as possible in all areas of life. Even if there is a time when you have to fight, there is a way to do it- cruelty free. Even in the case of cosmetics. (#^.^#)


This is lettuce wrap with portobello mushroom... Vegan. From a burger place in Brooklyn ,NY.

Not Worried.

During my recent trip, I was asked if I worried because "shihan" status people left Honbu since last year.

It never occurred to worry, primarily because they did not do much. Few of them were actually hindering and stalling the younger one's in an effort to keep them in line. Each of us have our own to tell so I can't speak for them but for me, I feel more aware of what is happening because now we are able to speak directly to the grassroots.

It is always easier to leave than to make things right. So quitting midway is kind of a loser mentality in my opinion. I hear stories now, after their departure, that their reasons differ to what was discussed to us. But that just comes to show they did not have what it takes anyway.


Sometimes, things do not work out for the best... And that is okay too. (^^)/

I Heart New York....

Hi everyone!

Sorry for my absence here but I traveled around a bit since last month. Lucky for me, the final destination was NYC.

As you may know, I heart NY like my second home. I lived there since all through my highschool and university years. Having a Dojo in NY means a great deal to me even though I separate my work from Kyokushin activities. This time I met up with Honbu Dojo's and I had such a great time! It reconfirmed that it never is quite the same to know someone over the internet. The wholeness is not the same of meeting that person and seeing them.

Here are some picture's... I'm going to
post what fasting I did this time on another blog so please check that as well(#^.^#)


                                       Sensei Raul and his wife Rachel. They are so cute!

Sensei Bill Brown and his wife Sharon. Such lovely people. 

At Brooklyn Dojo.

Me at the pier.... photographed by Raul Dueno.

Torii and the calligraphy of Kyokushin kai.

Sosai's favorite....

This is some random trivia but I wanted to share with you all. I was at one of the 喫茶店, it is a classic style cafe that is hard to come by nowadays in Tokyo. My father loved stopping at one of those on our way to the movies, which was quite frequent.

Anyway this was one of his staple choices- cream melon soda! Yes the coloring is wow!

He also like strawberry short cake set, which came with coffee. He did have sweet tooth... (^^)

Graduation.....!

Akira graduated his Jr. High school today. We are so proud of the work he put in his schooling.... Dad looks so proud...(^O^)／

Democracy Handicap?

I recently had an interesting opportunity to observe "human conduct" in Kyokushin world regarding agreements.

The people that came from what was considered "democratic" countries, have huge problem signing contracts. They feel bound and some go to the extent of falling silent or quitting without asking or offering a suggestion.

The Dojos that are from a republic or formerly a communist country is surprisingly very easy to work with. All work together to see how they can conform and adapt to the contract with their voices also implemented in the agreement. And they don't do this from some obnoxious I-am-equal theme and argue just for the sake of arguing. They keep in the line of command from Honbu and offer suggestions that will work best for them, which we will never know until we are told about!

It became apparent the ones that rambled on about "freedom" etc were very sloppy with money as well. It almost reminded me of what the factories that made fake brand goods used to say when they got persecuted for infringement.

The irony here is the merchandise is karate not handbags!!! It is one big headache but it made us really appreciate those working hard, and who are sound enough to offer suggestions! Without silly questioning or inane diatribe, I must add.

Missing my mother....

My mother's 7th memorial ceremony is going to be held this coming June and I am just shocked how quickly time flies by us!

While I fuss around for preparation, I realize how much I miss her （；＿；）

So I called my aunt , mother's younger sister- and took her out to lunch.

The beautiful street is right by her house. The city had been preparing for the cherry blossoms and usually has a festival by the river but it's been delayed by a month or so due to the weather this year... It's just starting to bloom now.

Spring......

I loooove spring. It is my favorite time of the year.

I always think of my father around this season....maybe due to his memorial date is close by but also because he always loved driving under cherry blossoms. Some roads have miles of the beautiful tree and he would always open the window of his car so he can feel the petals falling.

It is not the cherry blossom season yet in Tokyo but I will take some pictures where he liked to travel around when it blossoms!

Remember....

"Remember to inhale life and exhale fire."

Time flies by. It is already one year since the 3-11devastation here in Japan and there is so much more still that needs to be done !

As my father taught us, where there is will, there is hope.

Muchas Gracias.....!

Waaaa I am so blessed. Life is giving me a lifetime work to do for Sosai and Kyokushin... I have such strong team of people working for Honbu. (#^.^#) And how things work around for you is just amazing....!

This curry is from the South Indian restaurant, is one of the best curry out there and they also happen to sponsor MOC Unity Funds for Kyokushin . It is a must try for anyone visiting Tokyo and loves Indian food!

WOMPT.

I looooove Audrey Hepburn and one of the beauty she left us was her witty thoughts.

"Nothing is impossible. The word says it clearly- I' M POSSIBLE" (^o^)

39 year old school teacher.

Who is also a "Shihan" of Taekowndo in Tama city Tokyo, Japan was arrested today for assault and robbery.
The man jump-kicked the lady and kicked her few times in the head area, stealing her bag which had one- thousand yen in. The man claimed he assaulted her because when they almost bumped into each other she did not acknowledge him. " TBS News.

Ouch.... I think it was his soul that wanted the simple acknowledgement.

My father always made a point of apologizing first if he bumped into someone or almost came close to bumping in to someone on a street or a public area. He was extremely polite and made sure I did the same. Now I am glad he instill that in us!!! (^^/

Chances.

I always believed in faith and had faith in life.

I met with my brother here in Kyoto and he asked me,"Are you still doing it?!" meaning are you still doing what I believe to be true. I said of course, adding that if we are not pursuing it he wouldn't be running a dojo with a Kyokushin banner(￣▽￣) lol.

Intuition tries to stop us from failing. It is in our instinct but conversely, it is a barometer for feeling the opposite. If we don't pursue what makes us happy we will regret it rest of our lives. I may change courses but generally I don't give up. Now, doing anything Kyokushin related like I do now, almost as a full time job with hardly any monetary benefits does not sound like happiness. When I started to help and take after my mother and my sister's, that alone gave me a sense of purpose. Especially for my mother because when my father passed away, too many things were taken away from her. Including what students meant to her. The most active one' s that led Kyokushin to break up, quit in middle of the feud they started ! Amazing really. And they still have the gall to make their students call them shihans and make them buy and wear Kyokushin Kai Gi when the karate is called something else!! Funnily no one is suing his "bleep". Which makes me think, maybe that is my job?(~_~;)

A story I recounted on this trip to the media was about not giving up. They asked what makes me continue. And I thought of this young man who is with
Midori now but came to Honbu almost everyday while he was in Japan for their tournament last year. He was like five years old when the whole break up happened and even then, he was begging to train where "Sosai walked and trained". It sheds a different light on where my focus should be.

Finding your authenticity....

Find your authentic self. It generally means not fitting into every social casts but it is so liberating when the criticism is taken in stride.

Kyoto (^O^)／

I'm in Kyoto now, partially for a business that is going to be launched this year!

This is the large incense pot placed in front of the main temple. 

Kyo- veggies. Streamed and lightly salted with buck wheat noodle at the bottom. 

Plum Blossoms at the ToDera. 

Soba Tofu! It was so delicious...

This is Soba Dumpling. This was my favorite.... (^^)

Gojo tower. 

Kyoto Gion street Starbucks. Talk about the comfort of known brand!!!

February 29th and snow.

Hello !

Yessssss finally exam is over and we both passed! Yaaaa!

And also February 29th comes once every four years too!

This is what we all ingested to prepare for the finals and exam.....(^^)Hehehe

Confusion or perception...

Most people who train seems to confuse the ability or the length of training (such as dans) equates character and integrity.

Many people seems to overlook Sosai lost most of his titled black belts when they went independent from Kyokushin in the early days.

Some did the way with no regrets and some did it in a way that left some regrets. I know the ones that had regrets actually came to Mother after Sosai had passed, to put a closure in their... relationship to Sosai. One can never know what it is like until you get there but I know they all had unfinished
conversation with Sosai that they closed it by speaking out to Mother.

Even when they were "legends" they still had things to work on- and they readily admitted them. Perhaps that is why they were able to go independent without using the name Kyokuhin.

WOMPT ....(sorry I forgot the number!)

My mantra nowadays....

"I can heal anything by healing my beliefs first." Wayne Dyer

I believe in myself and abilities. I have unlimited potential when I trust in the universe and believe in me.

Smile!

Donut of kindness.

Our neighbors made Akira a congratulatory home made donut for finally finishing his exam.

It was so yummy I had too many of them lol.

Spring~~~!

Spring theme is all in the air here in Tokyo but the weather is still really cold compared to the usual climate around this time of the year.

Here is the Hinamatsuri- the Girls Day celebration which is on March third. E each year.

And the snack line from Starbucks, pink lollipop cake....

Mike.

A tribute to M.B who passed away on the 14th.

Mr.B

Thank you so much for coming and visiting us at Honbu almost every time you came to Japan.

I hold the memories of you showing me "how to box" and your memories of Sosai. You watched his DVD's and made such kind comments. You were open and so personable to our students as well as the neighbors, you fixed the chair when the elderly neighbor needed a hand.

We will miss you. The world of K1 will miss you.

Blessings....

Standing up for yourself...

My employers are frantically going thru the interview process for the new- faces coming on board this April. And I had a really interesting account to tell you all that happened during one of interviews.

There are hundreds of job applicants and they wait hours just to get to the board room where one of the final interviews begin. I watched in awe of how the interviewee's were put through series questions, got their linguistic and language proficiency checked, grilled for their concept of what the future of the firm and the company is etc/....

In one of the group interviews, there was a woman (I think it was a woman) who actually physically blocked the rival so she could not speak. I sat in awe to see what she was going to do next... and nothing happened!  I looked over the board members and one of the lady (sharp as hell, she is one of my idols) curiously asked, "What do you have to say about what just happened here?" And woman did not reply!

There was a person deliberately blocking so the she could not speak and she did not do a damn thing! And more over, when she was asked point blank what she thought of the incident, she just folded like a tent. She was just too embarrassed to be put on spot like that.

Did the firm hire them? No. Which one was worse in their eyes- the rude one who shoved the rival aside or the passive one who refused to defend herself?

The boss answered, "The who did not defend herself. Who will do it for you but you?"

I rest my case. Haa...

F.o.c.u.s

"Follow our course until successful.... "

I found this acronym by accident and I loved it, I had to share with you all.



This is the Chinese Restaurant that held
the after party for All Japan Tournament during Sosai's time. I stopped by for lunch today in case anyone is interested lol(#^.^#)

Moon and Star.

I think this picture is pretty(^○^) I am bogged down with paper and errands.... But as the saying goes, Stop to pause and wallow in the beauty of nature..... Hehehe(*^^*) it makes Honbu look pretty too.

Italian by Suzuki(^○^)

Tuna and tomato sauce home made and cabbage salad with home made onion dressing....!

DEATH. (WOMPT7)

*This is one of my FAVORITE piece of writing. Please enjoy.



Some day you will die.

Lying on your sick bed about to breathe your last, you will be assailed with every kind of pain, your mind will be filled with fears and anxieties and you will not know where to go or what to do.

Only then you will realize you have not practiced well.

The skandhas/ aggregates (matter, sensations, conception, impulses and consciousness) and the four elements in you will quickly disintegrate and your consciousness will be pulled wherever your ancient twisted karma leads it.

Impermanence does not hesitate.

Death will not wait.

You will not be able to extend your life by even a second.

How may thousands times more will you have to pass through the gates of birth and death.

If these words are challenging, even insulting, let them be an encouragement for you to change.

PRACTICE HEROICALLY.

Do not accumulate unnecessary possessions.

DO NOT GIVE UP.

Still your mind, end wrong perceptions, concentrate and do not run after the objects of your senses.

PRACTICE DILIGENTLY.

Be determined not to let your days and months pass by wastefully.

"Encouraging Words".

Happy Lunar New Year!

😄May everyone have a great 2012 and fulfill your New Year Resolutions!

You can see Mt Fuji waaaaay back in the picture.

Coffee Shop.

This coffee shop is no longer around but it was Sosai's andy family's favorite coffee and tea cafe.

The owner brought coffee for all meetings、branch chief meeting too.

Right before the 3/11 last year he moved to Nagano after retirement(｡-_-｡)

They had great coffee and sandwich toasts.... Miss them a lot.

Gratitude to Uchideshi.

Growing up, I have always known how my father felt about people training his karate and in particular, the Uchideshi.

I really feel how happy my parents are in Heaven, to have this person return to Honbu.
He came back from this year to Honbu. He trained as Uchideshi and graduated, finishing the three year program. He was also the Dorm Chief for few years.

 Honbu must be a special place for him because he met his wife here too. (^o^) This return of the "Uchideshi" (^@^)  as I call it is really so sweet because I can see how much it means to him. The personal journey is always so sacred and I almost can feel the conversation he has with his teacher in his heart.

It is moving to witness someone wanting to be and is being, the change they want to see in the world. (of Kyokushin that is.)

Om Shanti

Reiterating the Advice...

One of the Best Advice... (^;^)

May. 14th, 2009 at 8:58 PM

When I was in primary school, I was bullied A LOT by one group of kids. It was so bad that I do not remember my 4th grade year. There was one kid in particular who bugged me. I did not tell my parents about it especially in the beginning but it was really eating me alive, affecting my school work.

So one day I refused to go to school and locked myself in my room. When Sosai came home, (more like walked "up" home since our home was just above the office and the dojo), my frantic mother obviously had spoken to him.... I did not speak all during dinner nor next morning. Or that whole week I think... Sosai did not say anything significant in relations to my refusal to go to school either.

As time passed by I felt myself slip out of my protective shell and just as I started to relax (or forget) about my brutal treatment from my school mates, (some were older) he gave me one of the best advice- in life I guess too.

He said, "Who's is bothering you?" (He never asked nor did I speak about my refusal going to school, which is interesting),.

I said, "Everyone". (In reality it was only 4 or 5, as I recall)

He stared at me a bit (which seemed damn long for me...) and he said, "Is this boy or a girl?"

I said, "both".

He stared at me intently... I remember he was really looking serious... and was really taking in

what I was "speaking" to him.

He said, " I will tell you what. Next time any kid bothers you, take the nearest thing- a rock, a book, a pencil case... (I guess a blunt object) and lay him or her out".

I was shocked of his suggestion... so I was silent.

And he went on, " Just do not hit on the head and do it away from the ear, aim the jaw".

I was still silent.

Next day I went to school. I felt very quiet. I guess when I look back now, I was preparing.

So I did it when the next incident came around.

To my surprise, I actually "felt" good. And it worked.

I got in trouble, my parents were both called in the principal's office. Sosai was scolded by the Catholic sister's of the school. He apologized to the boy's parents too. But he turned to wink at me.

On the way back in the car, I put my head on his lap and slept all the way back home.

Since that incident, no one bothered me anymore and I made life-long friends.

Though I won't advise my child to do the same, it was a great lesson for me that stuck with me all through my life. Someone had invaded my "space" - my being and I learned that no one will stick up for you if you don't do it yourself.

Many years later, when my mother was used a bill board- we felt so invaded and claustrophobic. To learn to be honest and strong enough never allow oneself to deviate from what we choose to do was the hardest thing and sometimes, being "nice" is the worse deceit of all- especially to one self.

All choices we make should come from most truthful place of our beings and that is what I learned from Sosai. I am still learning of his advice and to this day it had helped me through the toughest cases. Regardless of the outcome, he had shown me that the only way is to never deviate from what is most true in our hearts and we have to protect it with all our being.

(｡-_-｡)Time Out。

I need my time out ducking the killer schedule....

What do you all do to wind down？

It's so cold now it Tokyo I am sleepy actually...(*☻-☻*)

This is Sosai's new book that was published last year.

Love my Cat.

And the penguins.....! Actually they were presents from my Dad when I was leaving for college!

My laptop (tears).

                                                   I am trying to resuscitate my laptop.....

But maybe it might be wise to get a new one..... what do you think? My laptop is named "Snowy" from my niece,  is missing his "T" lol. I must have been typing away furiously at times...(^^) 

First snow in Tokyo！

But it doesn't show on the pic!(*?*)"

It is cold though .,.. I mean in comparison to the cold in Tokyo…

Okay the second photo shows a teeny bits of the snowflakes... I love the cool air though... I dislike cold。(｡-_-｡)

Gift from Bali!!

Ya！thank youuuu Ulurike。
It's perfect for summer brunches (^○^)

Words of my Perfect Teacher 6

"How do one fight this kind of ignorance? You don't. But as long as you keep going and you are right, they will be proved wrong."

Salma Hayek.

This one struck a chord with me a lot while I watched her interview in.... 2002? Everyone said we were the terrible one's.... lol.

WOMPT 5.

If man understood that "what I create has nothing to do with what anybody else is creating", then he not be   afraid of what others are doing. -A. H



It is an eternal challenge to find ingredient that makes people get along especially when they don't like each other! but this quote can perhaps help those who are struggling... (^^)

WOMPT4.

"To sin by silence when we should protest makes cowards out of men."

Ella Wheeler Wilcox.

Words of my Perfect Teacher....3

"Success is a journey, not a destination. The doing is more important than the outcome. Not everyone can be number 1. "

Arthur Ashe.

A Special Day.

Today was a quality day for me. I got to spend some time with a person whom I had struggle identifying with for the longest time.

It is never easy to conquer a wall built by your own characteristic tendencies but it is always a joy to feel the evolvement of your soul. (^-^)


I am also contemplating on deleting my Facebook account. I am swamped by friends requests which i am not responding. I think I will merge my other interests and my yoga so I don't have to feel so schizophrenic!!!

My haven for the day is ..... Starbucks just close by Honbu at Marui (^^)

Pure Decadence.....!

Gift from my staff at the store I work for now..... Aaarrrr I won't be able to do my twist poses!!!

Old Pictures....

Sosai when he traveled to this United States.


The mosaic just outside Honbu of Sosai's bull-fighting portrait.

Favorite Salad.

I am currently addicted to Thai Papaya Salad.....(｡-_-｡)

Quote of the Day!

"Embrace adversity with all your being- it be your greatest teacher if you can embrace it fully with everything you have. And you learn from it. "

Salma Hayek

Inspiration of the Day.....!

"Life always gets better when I treat myself better." Robert Holden. With the hectic lifestyle we all tend to have it is so important to stop and bring all the awareness back to yourself . Just simple breathing helps me get thru the commotion! This quote always helps me understand what is easily overlooked. My father always took time to do calligraphy, some reading and journaling to wind down. It left an lasting impression on me to see how he conducted his day. And he was a very popular man(^^)!

WOMPT.....2!

"Just because they say "ACTION" doesn't mean you have to do something."

-Marlon Brando (Actor)

WOMPT. (Words of My Perfect Teacher).

"First practice with yourself what you want to teach others." Swami Muktananda

I got this quote the day before I taught my first class. (^^)

Random Pic

From the top.... My colleague from Shanghai and Korea. The Poland Dojo and Sensei Tadeusz at the Chinese restaurant (^^). My cat and my jumbo Penguin....