The pure joy of a good practice

Last night's aikido practice was a welcomed return to normalcy. After missing a few sessions due to the flu, practicing last night was pure joy. Folks must of thought I was crazy for all of my attacks (as uke) were definitely 'sincere.' I threw a little extra energy into each exercise. And when it was my turn to be 'nage' (the thrower), I tried my very best to execute each technique perfectly; focusing on form and movement and blending and redirecting the energy offered by my partners.

I am reminded of George Leonard's book, Mastery, and of the chapter where he states the true path to mastery is many time found when we are enjoying the pleasant performance plateau of repetitive practice. Practice, practice, practice ... Surrender to the discipline ... and then practice some more.

Life should be filled with more moments of simple practice -- more moments of aikido or dance or just spending time with friends.