While traveling this spring, Chuck Pailthorp visited Weidenaudojo in Siegen Germany, today one of the few Yuishinkai dojos in Europe. The chief instructor, Stefan Leiendecker, treated me like a visiting family member. He and his partner, Gunda Hoier, were welcoming, generous and delighted that our dojos now have direct contact. Chuck practiced at their dojo one evening, and found the similarities and differences instructive. Among other kindnesses, Stefan and Gunda showed him a few books they currently enjoy, ones they thought other Aikidoka might value. Dance with Heaven & Earth: Life Lessons from Zen & Aikido by Anna Sanner is one he would like to share with you. Ms. Sanner offers beautiful, practical reflections about what it is to practice Aikido well. Her book is written so that one can read a page or several, set the book aside, and bring her suggestions to one’s time on the mat and to everyday life. Chuck has added a copy of her volume to our dojo library.
By Chuck Pailthorp