Aikido in Modi'in

The Aikikai dojo in Modi'in is hard to beat - both challenging and kind. "Are you going to stay?" was the first question I heard. I had to say no, just visiting. Still, in a one-hour class, I felt that Jose Magal sensei and a group of friendly, enthusiastic training partners drew out my very best Aikido. I didn't say perfect, just my very best, all the spirit and energy I had. They were very welcoming to a visitor and I got a taste of some interesting blends, sometimes different to what I'm used to at home, sometimes the same. From time to time I kind of wanted to say "We do it different at home," to excuse myself for not getting something right. But I didn't say it. I think people understood very well.

Aikido is one of the universal languages (even though it comes in different dialects), and because it's unavoidably about connecting to another person, it's a very honest one.

Sensei after class showed me a picture of his sensei, with whom he has studied for 30 years, and told a few stories. His sensei lives in Brazil. I'm amazed by the energy and commitment that has gone into developing his practice, keeping it alive, and building their beautiful dojo. As I left I was given an address of another dojo in Jerusalem, and I hope to meet up again with some of these same people before I leave.