Start by Assuming Nothing

I've always admired a team who shows great spirit regardless of fancy uniforms or elite status. A group of hard-working individuals looking to find the best in themselves. Humble in demeanor and resolved in their commitment. Noble qualities.

What if you could find a pursuit that goes even deeper? One that cuts to your very core and reaches into every corner of your life. As difficult as it may be, you would be lucky to stumble onto such a path. The challenges you encountered could be welcome teachings in uncovering your highest potential.

Aikido is not a Japanese martial art, but rather a martial art from Japan. The distinction is an important one. It has been transplanted here and awaits people of character.

It is a living art whose heart and soul are in the people practicing. You must search carefully to find your school. You must search to find a teacher who inspires you to challenge yourself, who wakes you up and breathes life into you, not one who supports old habits and pats you on the back while quietly lulling you to sleep.

You will get fit with this practice, but if your intention is only to lose weight, I suggest you join a gym. You will be learning a martial art, but if your only intention is self-defense, then take a self-defense course. This is a path that can be a lifelong endeavor.

The beginning is so important. The hero's journey begins by stepping out into the unknown. After all, we can't know what it is we need to learn, else we would not need to learn it.

At the start, we only have our gut feelings and raw courage to guide us. Still, I believe that on some level we can sense things that we know nothing of.

 Pay attention, listen carefully to your intuition, and look for your group, your teacher, your dojo.

The ancients say, if you spend three years looking for the right school, your time will not be wasted. Upon beginning, your skills will grow, but this original openness to the unknown is what will keep you awake and alive.

I admire people who are seeking. This is a noble quest. It's not an easy one, but once you've begun, you might find it even more difficult to turn back.

George Lyons
Chief Instructor
Bucks County, Pennsylvania