What is Soke "really like"? Well, in listening to him discuss everything from literature to politics, I always learn something. To me, Soke is a tremendously funny, well-educated, well-read, timeless Japanese man, with a free-spirited tie collection. Okusama and he are perfect complements. I admire his intellect, wit, warmth and ability to tolerate utter nonsense. He is an incredible teacher (he won't admit it), who operates on long-term personal relationships. I lived in Japan for 3 of the past 10 years, training 4-6 days a week. The best part of my last stay was 3 months in Noda, recuperating in the shoyu-drenched spring air, just existing. I will go back ASAP.

One phrase given to us by Manaka-sensei is "Kuroi nuno ni karasu wo nui, shiroi kami ni sagi wo kaku." I take this to mean that we must learn to perceive what others do not: the crow on black cloth, and the white heron on the paper. Equally important, we must also learn to sew a crow such that there appears to be only black cloth and sketch a heron while preserving the emptiness of the paper. In addition to the obvious Taijutsu implications, we must appreciate the subtle imprint left when we act. Furthermore, art is determined not only by the artist, but by the materials she chooses. In Japan, they say a student-teacher relationship lasts for 3 years to every 1 of one's parents. Thus, "Kuukan" refers to the quality of the Bujinkan, the balance of mutual obligation and responsibilities. Therefore, I especially want to support women's training. I urge all shidoshi to train with women to learn, not just to be "nice."

Shidoshi Regina Brice's primary life skills are in law (int'l corporate and family) and Japanese translation. She uploads legal FAQs to rec.martial-arts (a newsgroup on the internet) every few weeks. "A Martial Artist's Guide To American Law" (560 pages) is now $50; those who've already bought it will receive the first-year update free. She translates letters @ $25/page and does seminar interpretation @ $250/day + expenses. She will also paraphrase Japanese books ($50 per original page) but Soke's works are for individual instructor use only. In spite of her "slacker " front, a training group has re-formed on Sunday AM; she's flexible if you're out that way. She may be contacted via E-mail: Happo@ aol.com, or write Regina Brice, P.O. Box 87, Oberlin, OH 44074.