Jodo Gasshuku in Corsica
from October 14 to 15, 2006
from October 14 to 15, 2006
As it was in the past already, this Gasshuku left us with plenty of nice souvenirs and a healthful fatigue. It is not worth mention it anymore, but Jean-Claude was really brilliant in terms of simplicity, commitment and generosity, and he was well assisted by Gilles.
We already have nostalgic feelings about this fantastic weekend and we are quite satisfied that everything went well. This year, we had to move to another training facility because the usual one could not welcome us due to construction works. That's why we went to another place about sixty kilometers to the south of the eastern coast where Françoise found a really nice holiday camp.
We could choose between training on the lawn in the sun or under arbutus trees (very beautiful and very old arbutus trees) or even on the beach where we could admire during the last years beautiful sunrises while training before breakfast.
The theme of the Gasshuku "Jûnanshin" was experienced by us with weapon and mind. Jean-Claude suggested - contrary to our usual practice - to use different forms with certain kata or to try kesa giri when we normally do shomen.
In the early morning, we studied kihon tandoku on Saturday and sotai on Sunday, whereas the Saturday afternoon was dedicated to kenjutsu during which our newcomers could experience their first steps with bokken. During the remaining time everybody had the opportunity to study different kata series according to his/her level.
Kudos to Ariane who after 4 hours of practice did not hesitate to participate in this Gasshuku where she brilliantly stood out not only for her delicious cakes but also for her assiduity and seriousness when she did kihon alone. I think that everybody could benefit from this intensive practice with our two instructors who took care of everybody.
Of course, there was also something else beside the training with meals that were really copious served in an agreeable atmosphere. As usual, everybody brought some specialty from his or her region in order to enjoy it with all the other people. Maurice was so nice to let us taste from his first honey which was something he had always dreamed about, and the honey was really as good as his dream.
Marie-Ange Orsini, from Corsica
Fédération Européenne de Jodo / European Jodo Federation