The Application of Aikido
Essay for Yondan

Mark J. Norton

Nov. 27, 2000

After twenty years of practicing and studying Aikido, it is difficult to isolate the influence of Aikido on my life. It has had a deep and profound impact on many aspects of my life, and I apply to many situations that I find myself in.

The study of Aikido has given me a new way to look at problems and relationships. When we practice in class, the encounter is different every time. Different people, different times, different moods, different energy all have an impact on the dynamics of practice. As such, I no longer have expectations on how people will react in a given situation (on or off the mat). Instead, I try to be alert to what is happening an any given moment and then act in an appropriate way. Aikido has given me the ability to react very quickly in constantly changing situations. These reactions are not only physical, but mental ones as well. I have more insight into body language now and I can often tell how a person feels before they have expressed an opinion or make a statement.

In general, the skills I have learned in Aikido give me an abiding sense of peace and tranquility. Having been exposed to some extremely violent situations, it puts everyday life into a different perspective. Overall, I am more calm, more centered, and less prone to anger than when I started this study.

Besides the technical aspects of practicing Aikido, I have been a teacher of this art for nearly fifteen years. I have not only learned how to perform techniques, but teach them as well. My teachers have been a lasting influence on how to communicate what I know to other people. I have applied these teaching skills to many areas outside of Aikido and will continue to do so. I have learned to be comfortable in front of large groups of people (950 was the largest), and take mistakes in stride.

Finally, Aikido has given me a deep sense of confidence and belief in myself. I know that I truly can do anything I set my mind to doing. This confidence and perseverance has served me well in my career, business, and other ventures that I’ve been involved in. This is tremendously powerful, if tempered with good sense. As such, I would credit Aikido with contributing to much of what I have accomplished in the past two decades. I am very grateful to all of the people who have taught and guided me in this wonderful journey of exploration.