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The Letter and Spirit of the Art by Michael Aloia ASA Dojo Cho
What is the distinction? How does this affect the way we train, how we teach others, how we understand?
First we need to distinguish the difference between the two. The letter of the art is those particulars that define what aikido is, how technique is properly executed and how we conduct ourselves. For some, these are set in stone. For others they may exist only as guidelines – a solid base. Which brings us to the spirit of the art.
The spirit is more like the latter – guidelines. These guidelines are merely a footing from which to build on, allowing situation or circumstance to create the rest. The letter states what is right and the spirit feels what is right. The letter represents a one-dimensional point of view where there is no compromise. The spirit shows us that if we are adhering to the principles, the essences of the art, we can and will function in any environment.
An understanding and balance between the two will enable the practitioner to truly explore the limitless bounds and possibilities of aikido. Thus growing exponentially.
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