In efforts to kill time one day I found my self wandering into a martial arts weapon store in Richmond. I was overwhelmed by all of the different items they had from swords to bows, nun chucks to throwing starts and many other things I had never seen before. The swords however were the first thing to catch my eye. An entire wall dedicated to swords of all types, purposes and designs. The first ones that I looked at had a bright fire red handle with a sheath to match, a golden dragon head coming from the butt of the handle, and gold tips on the sheath and hand guard. The entire sheath and handle carved to look like the scales of the dragon.
There were many other swords that were so very decorative and eye catching. It was almost overwhelming. As I worked my way along the wall looking at these swords, one set stood out at me. In amongst all of these intricately designed swords stood one set, black, traditional samurai handle plain sheath. With only one carving on it. “
” meiyo (Honor).
I stood there, just looking at it, in awe. This set of swords said so much to me. The way it was so simple but seemed so powerful compared to the other more flashy swords. Not needing to show something fancy, bright colours and intricate designs, just its presence and a simple word seemed to overtake all of the other swords on display.
I did not go into that store with the intention of buying anything, but I can out with a set of swords that meant something so deep to me, it is impossible to put it into words. I came out of that shop with a set of swords that meant something, not just a show piece.
I think the reason these swords meant so much to me compared to all of the others there was its similarity to Kyokushin Karate. Simple, elegant, direct; no fancy, flashy facade. There are a number of people that I have trained with that have a presence, an energy that they emit, it is hard to explain but it is just this, silent but so powerful it is impossible to not notice.
One who is sure of himself need not prove anything.
The swords sit on my fireplace mantle along with the kyokushin kanji and kanku, as a focal point to my living space, as it has become a focal point in my life.
