The Lesson

[grim23]

A beautiful piece from a man I've never met, but for whom I have a great respect.

"The Lesson" on Google Video
A dramatic movement piece about an apprentice in a dojo learning her final lesson.

Comments

[peggy-aka-o.livejournal.com]

Interesting video :) I recognized some of the Aikido moves. One thing that I noticed when they first bowed to each other - they did not make eye contact.

I did that early on in my dojo, and was informed my the shodan I was working with that if I did not keep eye contact with them I would end up with my head getting cut off. Obviously they're not going to actually cut off my head at the dojo, but I have no doubt they would do something that would forcibly drive the lesson home. Since then I have always made sure to look at my partner when I bow :) I've been on the receiving end of object lessons enough to know that senpai generally don't verbally repeat lessons - but they make sure you learn them.

I did enjoy watching the video though. Domo arigato gozaimasu.

[grim23]

I noticed that as well. I do know that some styles have no eye contact with rei as a sign of trust and respect, including my current style...but this makes less sense to me. *smile*

Dou Itashimashite.

[viktormaddok.livejournal.com]

Unfortunately I have very limited access to the non-work related interwebz when on the clock, and no access at all at home for the time being.

I am looking forward to coming back to this once the connection gets established at home.

[grim23]

It's worth looking at. *smile* Good to talk to you last night.

[tigresssky.livejournal.com]

This made me think of you and Tam.

And thats all I have to say about that.

*smile*

~Tig~

[grim23]

Yes. Yes, it does. I'd very much like to replay that scene with her, if I get to be with her. *smile in return*

the lesson

[studentofgrim23.livejournal.com]

Wow that is grace, now for me to find some of that grace :-}

Re: the lesson

[grim23]

That's years and years of training, and not many keep this path...but i think it's worth it. I have no doubt you'll find that grace if you train for it, Miss Dolly.

Hugs, Grim

[karlynmeow.livejournal.com]

I cannot describe the feeling this video gave me. It also gave me a different perspective on what it is that you do. The beauty of the movement and energy between them intrigued me.

I am curious though...if she is his student....why do they kiss at the end?

[grim23]

*smile*

I believe that is one of his partners---this is a performance piece, you know.

[grim23]

And perhaps, that's why it is their final lesson.

[tamarta.livejournal.com]

It could be perceived as the final lesson, but I could also see it as a beginning. It was also titled "The Lesson", and not "The Final Lesson." (Is there such thing as a final lesson?) I liked the video, as well, even with some of the missing eye contact. Thanks for sharing.

I'd love to reinact the video with you, as soon as my arm gets better and you teach me some of the moves. I'm looking forward to talking with you tonight.

[grim23]

You are correct in that it could be a beginning as well as an ending. I was simply going by the description that the creator of the piece placed with the clip. *smile* In fact, of what I know of the author, I believe it will be a beginning.

Reinacting the video with you would be a great joy, as would the training and the practice. I'd love to dance with you. As I've said before, I hope your arm heals quickly and well. I'm also looking forward to getting the chance to talk to you tonight.

Love,
Grim

[tamarta.livejournal.com]

Ah - I missed the comment on the side bar of the video. Thanks for pointing that out. I still like to think of it more as a beginning.

Anyhow, my arm is not healing very fast and is the cause of a lot of interrupted sleep. Blasted rock climbing. Ah well - it was worth it. I'll talk to you soon.

[grim23]

Sorry to hear about your aggravated arm and your lost sleep. :/

Love, Grim

[irishkitty.livejournal.com]

I do not know anything about martial arts. What I do know is the dance and that was beauty in motion. Many lessons there for. Thank you for sharing.

Namaste

[grim23]

*bow*

Namaste.

[prairie-kittin.livejournal.com]

You've never met him?? I thought you two were friends.

Is that Sophie in the background in the red dress? I think it is! :-)

PK

[grim23]

Never have -- many mutual friends, though, including you. :>

[prairie-kittin.livejournal.com]

I keep forgetting you aren't a member of Wet Leather. ;-)

So, the next time you're in the area, we ought to have a Call and introduce you to everyone.

Kittin

[grim23]

I'm down with that. *grin*

[j5nn5r.livejournal.com]

That is indeed Sophia in the background.

[aurorawyndancer.livejournal.com]

guess I'm late to catch this... but it was incredibly moving, brought tears to my eyes... it made me think of the dance of Destruction and Creation, and I couldn't help noticing that the person WITHOUT the weapon in hand seemed more in control and powerful during the kumite... it had the energy of the God & Goddess, Shiva/Shakti dancing in it... the give and take of many forms of love. Beautiful.

[grim23]

*smile* You may be late, but you're accurate.

[sienna555.livejournal.com]

This was obviously a performance art peice, although I probably did not find it as moving as someone who actually practices the form might.

As for the kiss at the end, you can see it coming from the opening...or at least I could.

[grim23]

I enjoyed it more because I understood the form and the technique. Yes, the kiss was expected. :>