Today, I’m speaking with Amber Riles, 6th Kyu.
Weiner Sensei: What led you to Aikido?
Amber-san: I’d been in karate for 8+ years before I found Aikido. My father is a passionate man and collects martial arts books, he’d tell me about different fighting styles leading me to pursue answers on my own. Aikido struck me as beautiful, smooth like water, rooted like a great oak, and worth pursuing.
Weiner Sensei: How would you describe class at our dojo?
Amber-san: Class in the dojo is refreshing, everyone united for the same reason and seeking to better themselves; a task that can only be done by growing together. You work closely with everyone in the room that a mutual trust develops and it feels like family.
Weiner Sensei: What are your short term goals as a student?
Amber-san: As short term goals I’d like to better myself in that day; to take something, anything away from class that I can remember and use for the next challenge.
Weiner Sensei: What are your long term goals as a student?
Amber-san: As for long term, I’d like to master the basics; as silly as it sounds you can’t build a house if the foundation isn’t firm. Like water all the techniques flow from the basics, once I’ve mastered that there’s no limit to what I’ll be able to do.
Weiner Sensei: What does it take to be a committed student?
Amber-san: To be a committed student you need a purpose; you can’t start Aikido on a whim, you need a fire in your belly, a purpose to tie your belt, a reason to fall and get back up again.
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