07/06/2024
Continued : Yasuhiro Konishi
The grand master never neglected the sparring techniques (Kumite) in all forms of sparring (Konishi Karate was well-known as the so-called Jissen Karate, which focused on combat techniques. “Techniques in real life situations “
At the end of each rigorous training session, Grand Master Konishi would gather us in the traditional seiza position, our feet growing numb as we listened intently to his words. His lectures delved not only into the technical aspects of his techniques but also the philosophical underpinnings of Karate and its application in daily life. He emphasized that Karate should never be used recklessly but rather as a last resort for self-defense or the protection of others in dire circumstances.
It was a day etched in memory, in the heart of Minato-Ku ward, where our main dojo stood tall amidst the bustling streets. The year was 1978, a time when the essence of Karate permeated every breath we took. On this particular day, I found myself immersed in a local tournament, a stage where warriors tested their mettle under the keen gaze of the martial arts community.
As the tournament unfolded, the venerable Grand Master Konishi Yasuhiro presided as the chief judge, his presence commanding respect and admiration. Upon completing my role, a surge of reverence drew me towards the main judge's desk, where the grand master sat in serene authority. With a heart filled with humility, I offered my respects, only to be met with a whisper that stirred the depths of my being.
"You still do not know what is Karate," his words, soft yet profound, resonated in the depths of my consciousness. With a humble nod and the traditional response of "Osu," I acknowledged the wisdom bestowed upon me by the master. Little did I know, this encounter would mark the beginning of a transformative journey.
In a moment of serendipity, Grand Master Konishi extended an invitation that would alter the course of my training forever. "From tomorrow, I will teach you after the class hours," his offer, a beacon of enlightenment amidst the shadows of uncertainty. With gratitude swelling within, I accepted the opportunity bestowed upon me, recognizing the rarity of such an honor.
And so, under the tutelage of a true master, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and refinement. Each hour of rigorous training became a testament to dedication, as I immersed myself in the timeless teachings of Konishi Kihonwaza. With each repetition, under the watchful gaze of the grand master, my movements found grace and precision, carving a path towards mastery.