The First Set of Keikogi

Beginner students came dressed in their brand new keikogi.
Somehow it doesn’t feel settled in…
 
But everyone started out like this.
 
When we try anything new that we challenge ourselves to take on, we all start the beginning of a long journey in a new endeavor with a mixed feeling of excitement and clumsiness.
 
This set of worn & torn keikogi was brand-new when my older sister bought it for me when I was 14 years old after having begged for one for so long.
 
She said to me, "Don't quit halfway through." Her words still stay with me.
 
The keikogi was of a larger size because she knew I would grow taller and bigger quickly, and I had to wear it for a while with the sleeves and the pant legs rolled up. I think I wore my-first-ever-keikogi for about five years. I still remember the excitement I felt when I put on my brand new keikogi for the first time.
 
“Never forget your shoshin (初心; a beginner's mindset with an attitude of openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions).”
 
I have been practicing Aikido for over 60 years, and I remain always willing and eager to share my decades of experience in Aikido with you.
 
Autumn classes for Beginners will start soon! 
 
Gaku Homma
Founder & Kancho, AHAN AIKIDO NIPPON KAN