Funny acronym that. SAD.
SAD, not the emotion (like an emo on the mat with black eyeliner) but instead whether that person on the mat is a Student, an Apprentice, or a Disciple. Which are you? More importantly, if you’re the Sensei, then what is that person on your mat (which S.A.D) to you, the smooth operation of the dojo, and the dojo’s future.
Being Sensei means many different things ranging from being a marketing expert and salesman, accountant, counselor, risk assessment manager, psychologist, and task master (just to name one or two). However, it also means being an evaluator of a person’s potential for learning and how serious they are (and dedicated to) the learning process; or in other words, do they want to learn and will they strengthen the dojo and be an acceptable and positive influence. This classification (of the person who just walked in the door) should come to bear in deciding how that person is viewed and taught the ryu/system.
Are they a student. Do they come to class (mostly) and do they pay attention. Do they train only during class times, or do they come early and stay late for extra work. Do they have a long-term goal in mind for their martial arts study or appear to only be checking off the boxes on their punch list.
Are they an apprentice. Do they come to class faithfully and pay attention to everything the Sensei says, does, and teaches; remembering that a Sensei is giving life lessons and strategies and not just or only teaching techniques but they only work toward achieving the requirements of the training without working to excel and grow beyond that.
Or are they a disciple. Are they not just a student or a learner or apprentice, but a follower; one who applies what he has learned and works to continue the teachings. Would you look at them and believe that they will someday teach and continue the work and preserve the ryu.
Important considerations when Sensei is having to ration time and focus where it will do the greatest good and avoid being sad at wasted effort.
L.F. Wilkinson Kancho
The Aikibudokan
Houston, TX
October 19, 2022
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