Miyagi Chojun Sensei 1888-1953

October 8th marks the passing of Miyagi Chojun Sensei, founder of Goju Ryu Karate. It's been nearly 60 years since that day, and, for better or worse, much has changed. As contradictory as it may seem, tradition and evolution appear to coexist in the curriculum of many well respected Okinawan Karate practitioners. It's a slippery precipce that balances Goju Ryu while keeping it true to its origins and, at the same time, in search of its future.

What would Miyagi Sensei think of Goju Ryu today? Innovation in training methods, from Junbi Undo to Kata, is a clear example of his own eclectic approach. What if time and technology merged sooner? What would Miyagi Sensei's blog and YouTube channel look like? :)

As I continue to train, I'm left with many questions. Some will surely be answered with sweat and time. Others will probably remain as questions. In any event, today is filled with reverence and gratitude.

Domo arigato gozaimashita Sensei