Wednesday, September 9, 2020 by C. Michial Jones
If the last two years have taught me anything, it is that the path of Budo is rarely a straight line. It is a series of peaks and valleys, and lately, the ride has been a roller coaster. From organizational shifts to a global pandemic, here is an update on the major changes within our dojo and my personal journey.
The Storm Before the Calm: 2019
The year began with high expectations as we prepared for the 65th Anniversary of the Okinawakan. However, as the months progressed, the landscape shifted beneath my feet.
The Loss of the Dojo In July, shortly after hosting our annual gasshuku, we received devastating news. Our landlord decided to expand his own business into our commercial space. After five years and a significant personal investment in remodeling, we were forced to move. Unable to find a comparable space, we returned to our roots: the original Yushikan located on my family property.
Organizational Shifts Simultaneously, financial and political tensions with the Hombu Dojo in Okinawa reached a breaking point. I had to make the difficult choice to do what was best for my students and my family. I resigned from the Okinawakan Hombu, stepped down as President of Okinawakan International, and ended my 21-year tenure as Vice President of the Dentokan. These were not easy decisions, and they came with the heavy cost of walking away from rank opportunities I may never see again.
Seeking the Source: Okinawa
Despite the resignations, my students and I traveled to Okinawa in the fall. It turned out to be the most comprehensive and detailed training I have ever received. We spent two weeks training:
- Uechi-Ryu (Konan Ryu) & Matayoshi Kobudo: Under Josei Yogi Sensei.
- Dento Gojuryu: Four hours daily with Kenei Shimabukuro Sensei and Hiroshi Ganaha Sensei.
- Gojuryu & History: With Tetsuhiro Hokama Sensei.
I returned not just with new knowledge, but as an official Shibu Dojo (branch dojo) for both Shimabukuro Sensei and Yogi Sensei.
A New Foundation: Sekai Budo Hozonkai
Upon returning to Indiana, I reorganized my international association into the Sekai Budo Hozonkai (World Martial Arts Preservation Society). After 40 years in the arts, I wanted a venue that supported the full breadth of my training—not just Karate and Kobudo, but also Jujutsu and Iaido. This organization is built to preserve the fighting arts of Okinawa and Japan while providing a direct avenue for my students to earn authentic certification.
The Pandemic Challenge: 2020
As we looked toward a fresh start in 2020, the world changed again. The COVID-19 pandemic forced us into lockdowns, and our student base was hit hard, dropping from 50 students to just 10. Several of our branch dojos were forced to close their doors.
However, every “crap year” has its silver lining. The lockdown birthed the era of the Zoom Seminar. I have been able to train virtually with masters like Sakumoto, Fujimoto, and Hokama, and I’ve enjoyed weekly classes with George Mattson Sensei. These sessions have kept the flame alive during a period of isolation.
Looking Ahead
I am nearing the completion of my dual bachelor’s degree, which will finally free up time for my other passion: writing. I currently have five books in progress—covering Kobudo, Jujutsu, Gojuryu, and Uechiryu—and I am determined to get them across the finish line.
The physical dojo may be smaller, and the organizations may have changed names, but the spirit of the Hozonkai—the preservation of the way—is stronger than ever. Thank you for staying on this ride with me.
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