The Amatsu Tatara Tai Kai 2009 was introduced by Martin O’Reilly and he spoke at some length of ancient cultures across the world all having a legend of good defeating evil, light against dark – he also spoke of the monuments and landmarks that cultures such as the ancient Egyptians left – what was their intended message with these monuments? What were the ancients trying to tell us?
Whilst visiting Egypt in August this year, our Egyptian guide, who had a doctorate in archaeology, explained that the Pyramids at Giza were in alignment with certain planets and stars. He explained too, that the geometry of the great pyramid was such that the air within it de-ionises naturally and funnels upwards from the tip of the pyramid; also that within the inner chambers of the pyramid food substances stay fresh, metals stay sharp and do not rust, that in effect the pyramids aid the mummification process and preserve the artefacts placed within them.
What then were the ancient Egyptians aiming to achieve? We can only guess at the purpose of these great monuments, but it would appear that they were not only preserving the material remains of their kings and queens, but also realigning the energy of the earth itself when one considers the de-ionised air that emits from the apex. This could be described as similar to the process of acupressure or shiatsu for the planet – realigning and healing the Earth’s energy / Ki.
Tanemura Soke, who is the 58th Grandmaster of the Amatsu Tatara Bumon Shumon lineage, spoke of much during the 3 days of Amatsu-Tatara lectures and I will not attempt to provide a summary here, but rather encourage you to attend and participate in a lecture if you have the opportunity in the future. However I will aim to describe what was for me the ‘key’ message. Soke asked us, or urged us to ask ourselves: ‘Why are we born – what is our purpose here in life?’ If we are to use our time correctly whilst alive, we must realise what it is that we must do.
This question can feel overwhelming, but Tanemaura Soke suggested a good place to start is by cleaning up our approach to life and our own personal body/mind/heart.
We can do this by the following means:
· Training in this martial art.
· Eating and sleeping well.
· Good virtues – but not so that we get recognition or praise or something material in return for our ‘good deed’. Also you cannot force kindness on someone as this is counter-productive, the best way is discreetly or anonymously.
· Reflecting on your actions, thoughts and emotions – ideally at the end of each day and acknowledging anything negative. Don’t worry if you have had negative emotions such as anger or jealously that have in turn led to negative actions, instead acknowledge them and think about how you might have gone about things more positively. Make amends, if you can, and endeavour to learn from this scenario so that you do not repeat yourself.
· Most importantly we need to have gratitude and regularly make space to give thanks (inwardly and outwardly) for this life.
Visiting the beautiful ancient monuments at Tara, County Meath, Ireland with Tanemura Soke and other students from all over the world was extremely special and also gave more insight into Tanemura Soke’s purpose, not only is he cleansing his own soul / energy, he is helping others to do so too.
It was whilst visiting the monuments that the initial introductory comments made by Martin began to fully make sense, Tanemura Soke’s energetic focus and attention at these specific ancient sites was great to experience.
When we were standing on the mounds at Tara a fellow student commented that she was unsure what to do with herself - a natural reaction perhaps!
Yet we do not need to feel unsure and overwhelmed, it is enough for us to focus on our own lives and in so doing we will influence everything around us positively.
It is also enough to be outside on a hill, under a dramatic sky, in the fresh wind and observe the beautiful landscape, in the company of others and give thanks.
TARA GRANT
MYOJO DOJO - SANDAN
