Today, I’m speaking with Jonathan Tucker, 3rd Kyu.
Weiner Sensei: What led you to Aikido?
Jonathan-san: I did a lot of research. I had a lot of options I but I knew for sure at 30 years old I wasn’t excited about punching bricks and kneeing anything. I watched a lot of Steven Seagal when I was younger so I dug a little deeper and I found Aikido. Loved it ever since. Something new for me in my 30s. My pops taught me how to box when I was younger. He taught me The Hands quicker than eye, how to knock somebody out, etc. Survival instincts any young black kid should know but this something much different.
Weiner Sensei: How would you describe class at our dojo?
Jonathan-san: To be honest it’s warm, very pleasant, fun, and stress relieving.
Weiner Sensei: What are your short term goals as a student?
Jonathan-san: Break falls, Try to dedicate more time with Ed on the weapons and continue making it to class.
Weiner Sensei: What are your long term goals as a student?
Jonathan-san: Black Belt of course but I know it’s much deeper that. Continue on my peaceful journey. Pray that everyone I cross paths with on this journey understand that what works for you may not work for me. Same journey different paths.
Weiner Sensei: What does it take to be a committed student?
Jonathan-san: Your commitment builds when you start putting your personal life to the side (sacrificing your time with your family and everything else) That’s the 1st biggest commitment. It begins with etiquette. #RESPECT! I show up late but when I get their I’m 0-100 I’m focus I leave it all on the mat.. It’s so amazing! When I get done it feels like my day or night is just now getting started. So much energy! It feels like I come to life again. Like an addiction…5 years strong I’m not plan on stopping anytime soon.
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