How do you get over 100 people up on Sunday morning at 8:00AM? It is the annual new year’s ritual, Kagami Biraki at our Karate School . This is a tradition of renewal, rededication and spirit. Kagami Biraki, literally means “Mirror Opening” It was a samurai tradition dating back to the 15th century.
What is so wonderful about this tradition at our school is that you have over 100 adults from the most senior black belt (Kyoshi Nancy) to the most junior white belt (who just joined 2 days ago). This is the only time during the year that we all practice our Karate together. The energy (and fogged windows) generated by being part of this group amazes me each time I participate.
During the session, we of course do punches, kicks and yell alot, but also do traditional exercises like push ups and situps. Kyoshi Nancy explains to us that these exercises, no matter how difficult they are will not be the hardest challenge we will face in 2004. She asks us to gather our spirit to feed our triumphs and survive the difficult times.
During the reflective part of the morning, we are asked not to make New Year’s Resolutions, but to think about what we achieved in 2003 and what goals we have for 2004. It is a time that we recommit ourselves to what we want to accomplish in the coming year. I am determined to learn one of our karate style’s pre-arranged set of moves, Pinan Kata #2 (a tough one) and advance my rank to green belt (if I can survive!).
