Isshinryu Karate - Madison

May 30 is a day that we who study Isshinryu take special note of. We honor the founder of our style in different ways but we reflect on what Isshinryu Karatedo has meant to each of us.

Every class begins and ends with a show of respect to those who have preceded us and paved the way for us to begin our journey. Shimabuku Sensei provided the tools for self-exploration and self-improvement to those who were interested. We know some of his thoughts through his kihon, kata, kumite, some through his words and some by how he expressed himself in other ways. Shingitai.

When you bow in to your dojo, or to begin class, or to a training partner take an extra moment to think about Isshin. Think about how “All bottles are good” might apply to our everyday lives. Think about the Kenpo Gokui and how important that was to Shimabuku Sensei and why, especially the first verse. That is how we can truly show respect to Shimabuku Tatsuo Sensei and Isshinryu Karatedo.

On this day it is also especially important to remember that without the dedication of Advincula Sensei much of what we sometimes take for granted would have been lost.

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