Testimonials
April 20th, 2010 // 2:20 am @ Dana Abbott
A Testimonial From Dane S. Harden:
In the world of warrior arts we hold dear the concepts of duty, honor, and the value of the martial ways. As a soldier, I look at martial art from perhaps, a different perspective. I often hear the term “budo” tossed around in conversation among martial artists. I have rather strong views on what is and what is not “budo”. My experience teaches me that individuals who train hard eventually develop the rare warrior ethos and strong “budo” spirit, which can be difficult to find in mainstream martial arts. I recently had the distinct pleasure to meet and train for several intensive days of sword work, with Abbott Shihan. After a hard day of training, I spent my evenings reading and sleeping on the dojo floor. The experience reminded me of some of the more intense and most rewarding military programs I have participated in over the last thirty years.
To say the experience was a positive one, is an understatement. Many times in my career as a professional soldier and career officer, I have undergone the rigors of twenty hour days filled with physical exertion, mental stress, and demanding training. It is this type of experience and training that helps us grow. The instructor who is out there with you, leading by their example are the instructors we most want to train with. The bond developed in training with realistic criticism, guided development, and a disciplined approach are lifelong. True student teacher humility and mutual respect for both roles is very “budo”. Without the student, there can be no teacher, but as the saying goes…when the student is ready the teacher appears…
For those interested in learning at a physical and spiritual level, in my experience; there is no better instructor of the samurai sword than Shihan Abbott.
Respectfully,
Dane S. Harden
LTC (P), SP
Senior Flight Surgeon
United States Army
Category : News
