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End of Summer

Time waits for no one

 

End of Summer:

Even though it is really just the end of July, there is still Aug to deal with as far as the calendar. But the End of Summer I am referring to is me and my life. Next month is my birthday my big birthday….more later. I am going into another period of my journey here.   Also next month is the anniversary of our moving into this house and starting a real life here in Japan. Aug of 2013 was the start of being on our own, not living with my mother-in-law. Meanwhile, now this month was my anniversary of becoming a priest. July 13, 2016. I played my Shakuhachi for those gathered in thanks fo their support. Today I gave my first Dharma Talk, not only ever, but via Zoom, welcome to the new world. My talk was on Sounds, Healing, and Meditation. Mostly dealing with how I approach my Chan practice being a Komuso. Playing to people’s energy points, the vibrations of tones, the breath transmission, and morphing of Chi to sound to healing or meditation. I had a lot written down when I printed it out, I would need to read for it to make sense. However, I only read parts, mostly using the print as an outline, and just talked as it came. It was not as smooth as I wanted but it was more natural. Anyway it worked, people enjoyed it, we interacted and it went well for just the right amount of time. I played a traditional Honkyoku for the group at the end. A couple even seemed interested in playing Shakuhachi and asked for links. I did better, I sent my written talk, to cover parts, statements, points I missed, along with various links.   So that was sort of big deal, in my head anyway. I committed to a set of three or four talks, I now start preparing the next. So it was sort of cap to something started back in 2016 when I was ordained.   The Shorin Zazen class has been set for another gathering in late Aug. I need to refund no it a bit more for the next class or changing the length to 1.5 hr. Which is ok, not enough to strain new bees, but enough to get a fuller experience. I’ll decide after the next class and speaking with Osho-san.  

Band Music:

Band #1 of three and our first live house session since the Plague started last weekend. It was a fun session, our first with two new members. We sounded pretty good! Much better than the Original group. Still needs some more practice to tighten up! No idea what is the leader’s plan for the future. Don’t really expect much or care, it is just fun now in my brain. This band will never do anything big, or medium, LoL. It is sort of like what we called a garage band. Fun but never gets any real working gigs. Band # 2 is under the same classification. It was really designed just to play at one club. This will be upcoming in Sept. Band #3 has the potential to do more than just the same limited stuff, but the leader has no vision to really work the band, it is one of many side music projects. We have a live house session also upcoming in Sept.   These live house sessions are on the scary side these days with the virus still raising hell. The second wave has hit Osaka. There is no call to shut down, just wear masks, wash, and try to avoid large gathering, as cluster spots. Which happen to be places like bars, and live houses. It is mostly young people transmitting the virus. When I played the other night, I had my own mic cover, wore a mask when not singing, and left as soon as my band finished. So not to be in a long period contact with anyone in a closed space.  

It is is a weird life now, being safe always on the mind. I guess though mostly because I am of that group hardest hit. Perhaps if this was the spring of my life not the late summer, I would be less concerned. Hmmmm maybe, but younger I would have big goals to want to do, so I would still be careful. Speculation…  

Biking:

 

My “Bike ” is being picked up by the shipping company today. I will have it in a few days. I have it arranged with my Shakuhachi Sensei to keep it there and his place for a couple of days if I need it when the driveway is being repaired. However that maybe not be needed as since the rains have stopped, the work may be done this weekend and finished before the bike arrives sometime next week.   Once it is here, then it is practice, practice, practice. There are two parking lots I will use just around the corner from our house. I can push the bike there or ride a short back road to them. I have been putting in a lot of time watching videos about biking Japan, other riding tips. I learned a few things, even after all these years, also got refreshed on a few. Now I need hands-on. Yosh! Passing this driving thing is my big main focus for the next two to three weeks.

* Announcement *

This will be my last entry on this blog! My space is running out. I had wanted to do this when I reached Yon-dan because that was a big goal for my adventure to Japan. However, with space running out and my 70th birthday, anniversary for moving all upcoming. It is a good time to shift from the Summer of life saga to the Autumn.

An on-line acquaintance posted something about his upcoming birthday and he was going into the winter of his life at 83 but was going still keep pushing. I liked that season image, it is Zennish! So I am going into My Autumn season with a new blog.

Click Here: Zensekai…Japan 2@70  

 
There are some kinks and things to work out on the new site, but still…it is a go!!
Don’t be square, see you there.

Shorinji Zazen

The first session

Yesterday I held my first Shorinji Zazen session. I was looking forward to it. I was pretty calm, only a slight sense of nerves. My first real non-musical Zen-priest event. When I first came to Japan my first job, was teaching meditation at the local mall. I was the Kung Fu Sensei meditation teacher. Not the Priest. At that time I followed the standard path of my Ch’an group teaching the class. This time I set the path.

 

I arrive at the Temple, about 1 hour before the class. I relaxed with Osho-san before some others arrived. He showed me around a bit more. Then we watched a video of his leading major Jodo-shu event a couple of years ago. The Jodo sect, the Pure Land is huge in Japan. They seem to be more “engaged” on a public level Buddhist than the Zen Sect.

Of no matter, just a Radom thought.

Slowly people started coming in. First two, then another two, then a few singles, then more. I was quite surprised to find so many. About 10 in total, 11 with Ooshosan. That was really the Max, due to the size of the room. I had concerns about social distance. The room was pretty open, and the a/c was on. I opened a few windows to add fresh air. What we were doing was not strenuous but did require some serious breathing. I do not want people, including me coming from taking a health boost class and catching the virus.

Class starts, I explain a bit in my weak Japanese what we were going to be doing, my friend gave help when I needed to translate. We started with some basic Qi Gong and little massage and movement to get the body ready to be still.

Then we sat, I explained some more, we did a little chanting. This was totally new for me to lead. However, I rolled with it. In the path at Soto practice, we chanted after sitting, after walking. We chanted the Heart Sultra. I did “Na Mu Ami Da Bu”, instead, so to put the practice more in the realm of Jodo Shu, and not using Amitoufo. Felt a little strange at first I was not sure how to start the chant. I believe there is some Japanese wording said before starting when I have heard Otosho-san start. I just set the tempo and started, some joined, some not all, that at least, that I could hear. No matter.

 

Next, we did the actual Zazen for 15 min, which is a decent time length. After that I explained how to do Taichi walk. My other group adapted to doing it from me. They do it however in the beginning, They do not do any walking between sessions. Felt it would be good to do now, instead of just regular walking in a circle. It was challenging for every, which was good. It is challenging but not un-doable with focus. That is part of the training, and balance, communication with your body. One needs to be totally into the moment to move. I explained, later the meal, it changes the mind and body from Yin and Yang modes. When sitting the body is still and calm the inside is busy, breath, etc, When doing Tai Chi walk the body is active but the mind and spirit are still. Tai Chi walking is the first thing one learns when studying Tai Ch Chuan. At least in my Federation Tai Chi Mantis system.

 

After we finish, we sit again for the final stillness sitting. I cut it to only 10 min as we are running behind.

 

 

It was then over. I thought people would pay Osho-san but he told them to pay me….ehhhh!? Again I was shocked. I will need to return part of it if not all in a donation form, this is the feelings also of my wife.

 

Usually, when visiting I bring something, garden vegetables, wine, something to add to the temple. I am always fed and wined when I visit. One friend of Osho san said he does this as an excuse to have a drinking party!

 

 

After the session is all, done, Osho-san gave out to those who wanted some small gongs. Which I am guessing were donated to the temple rather than thrown away, by some families. I selected a couple to take home. Had brought my own with me, but it is of little value. Some of these were very nice. I chose a couple, a big one and a small one, I like the clear sound. That was another thing, they all sounded different. One chose one the sound as well. I got a couple of replacements for mine, along with new pads. I learned later there are different styles for striking the gong, depending on the sect.

About this time many left at this point.

 

 

 

A short time later the few of us still there made ready for eating and drinking downstairs. This was tea, drinking, eating, chanting time. It was fun. There were some questions about The practice we did, I could explain better under relaxed conditions. There was another friend of Osho-san there who’s English is very good, he is a Doctor, he could translate things nicely.

 

There was spoken of interest of continuing the Zen Practice it was enjoyable and the doctor especially said he benefited, it will help with his medical practice and his own spiritual belief as he did his work on not just a medical level, but spiritual as well.

 

 

So we ate n drank into the evening speaking on this n that, that n this. Then three of us in the group played some Shakuhachi Honkyoku before calling it an evening. I arrived at 1:45, it was now at the end 9:30.

 

Photos and words from the Japanese blog of komyoji
https://ameblo.jp/ensyouzan-koumyouji/entry-12611939928.html

That n This n July II

That n this…July – II,

year of the virus…

That

ok, well that sucked!

I went to do my Motorcycle test today. I had been telling myself this is just a sample test and don’t attach to the outcome. Do not expect to pass.

I thought I was handling it well. That morning though my stomach was wacky, and I did not sleep well. I guess I was internally excited for one for another maybe too much goat cheese for dinner.

I made it to the test center in plenty of time, early. I got to walk around and recheck the course. Looked ok, there were a number of testers waiting by the time the lead person showed up.

Everything was explained in Japanese. I got next to none of it. At one point I was asked if I spoke Japanese did I understand? I said only a little. He made some effort to explain you are using “this Map”. I watched, I heard something beforehand about a test run before the course. I kept waiting for that but never heard/understood any of it. By piecing several things together and asking the test “judge” just before testing I was able to understand I could make a short test drive. Which was go down a runway, turn and come back. That was it! Wow! nothing really helpful!

I sat through everything, listening carefully. I/we had to take another eye test, which concerned me, I passed again. One thing different about the Japan center is the testing people (takers) are provided with cars and bikes. In the States, you provide it yourself. I found out today we pay a rental fee to use. Ohhhhhhhh. Ok, Yeah, that is business and convenient. Ok, the bikes today riders used a couple of standard motorcycles, one Maxiscooter, (like mine) and one small scooter. We were asked in the signup paperwork beginning which did we want to test on. I thought it made a difference in the license because Japan is weird. Since I was getting a Maxi scooter I said scooter. Maybe a mistake!

My turn came, the Bike was almost the same as my new one, but made by Suzuki. Wow, that is good and bad.

Honda Forza

I knew it would feel different, from my old bikes, but it was really different. I had no chance to really feel the bike. I took off on a test lap and then started the course…

I was perhaps the third or fourth person in order for the day so far. All before me failed at the balance beam. All had runoff the platform. I made it through the slalom. It was not smooth and fast but I made no hits. Steering was weird, I was not used to the balance of the bike, feels off. So different from a regular cycle. The Balance point place is lower and more back. I need to adapt. However, I made it, when doing my loop to the balance beam I was off at the approach, so I paused and foot touched for a moment before correcting into the next section. I stopped at the starting point, the next section. I have a mental thing with the accelerator and no clutch. How much is enough? with a clutch, I can control a slow moment and power. With this have not the feel for just a little, how much is slowly… I expected the throttle on this to just kick into go…and the sound is so different to tell how much power has been added. So I am hesitant, too hesitant. I made it on to the balance bar without issue but only a few feet on to it before balance became an issue, I did not have enough speed, did not drive off but feet touched! FAIL! To hesitant with the power. I have ridden big Harleys before so I know I have the balance and skill, but it has been a long time and no practice! sigh…

Oh well, so much for that. I knew going in it would be harder than it looked. There were some Japanese things, like the timing matter. I went up to the window and the Judge told me what I did wrong. Too slow running the slalom. That needs to be under so many seconds! ohhhh! The Balance beam is slow! Touching the feet down is a no!!

Yup, none a surprise except for the timing on the slalom. I thought driving safely was the main concern not how fast one could complete.

It was a learning day as I had thought and told myself. I can do better but the issue is, do I change to another bike a standard which I am used to, would it matter after all this time of no riding/ Once I change I can not change again! Or should I just deal with what I am doing since that is the bike I have, better to be able to ride it decently before I attempt to bring it home and be safe? Doing the test with either has no effect on the license. Getting the license is the target, the Mato.
It is somewhat like the Kyudo Delima. Do I work on doing what I need to hit and pass the test or what will be correct overall and give me growth?

(The i-ching says I should not change)

However, how can I practice? There is no provision for that. I may have to check into a bike class or see if my friend at work can help. He has the same type of bike just smaller, but the balance felt the same. Sigh…Something to figure out before next month’s retest. Wonder if I can make the grade for my birthday. The Yondan thing birthday goal is a big fail for this year. I hope the bike trip is not! I could have had next week’s appointment but that would be silly and costly. I have already missed a week of work due to the rain and the test days are on my workdays, so a costly endeavor…sigh. Depressing, things could be worse. So I must look on the bright side. At least I can have this problem and development a solution…Amitoufo

So anyway, “That” was educational,…fun…not so much!

 

“This”

maybe fun and interesting. This coming Sat, I am doing my first self-formal Cha’n priest thing. I am holding a class on “Shaolin Cha’n” at Komyoji temple, in Amagasaki. My favorite local temple. Pretty much my home temple in Japan. The class will be a mix of Qi Gong drills, chanting, acupressure and meditation, Taiji walking. I have done another event with the temple informal mode but it was a part of the temple ceremony. This is something I am running as myself through the temple. Then kicking it with the Abbot and Jonin-san, an ex Komuso afterward, maybe with other friends.

Another “This” upcoming is my first dharma talk. It will be held via zoom to my home temple in Las Vegas. The month of my Dharma birth anniversary., today in fact here, tomorrow, in the States when this is published. Topic: Music, Healing, and Sound dharma Pretty cool. Hopefully, we can do this safely.

* Update*

I a solution fro the lack of practice has come up. My Bike will be delivered, then I can practice at home. Small street at home plus parking lot! Perfect!

I feel better now, seeing a path to the mountain top.

This n That n July

This n that…July, year of the virus…

 

In America, things are going crazy with the virus, not only the numbers but the people. All so sad, a totally corrupt government, and people that do not see it, or only part of it that doesn’t support their interest, a growing divide among the people, a skyrocket national debt, a loss of face among the world nationals. An upcoming election with a corrupt wants to be dictator, mob leader, spoiled coward rich kid, and a man with a poor track record of helping, who has clear signs of mental failings as the only choices for county leadership. Sigh, total fall of an empire. It is a blessing to be here in Japan watching, my ancestor’s prayers must be working.

 

However, this is not a political post…

 

This is about This N That in the life of a weird expat living in Japan. “Living the life” as it said in the hood! I would and of a blessing considering the state of the States! Oops, I digress…

 

The rainy season has been brutal here in many places, again the sunshine of blessings lights the way. Here.

No rain problems, historically this is a “safe” area. With no heavy major problems.

 

Kyudo

 

I went to the dojo this week, on a different night than my usual night trips. It was almost empty, my friend was there which surprised both of us, and one other person. Later Yamashita Sensei, my favorite was there. A NaNa Dan so always good to hear feedback from him. I shot ok, the first round was the best. As before as I get more into the practice I get less accurate. I need to work on that, wonder is it physical or more mental strength. The high points were three hits in a row. That was after a first shot miss. I need to able to shift that to the first three shots!! Towards the end, Sensei who had said nothing after being there awhile. He had been practicing himself and helping a newer student. He says my right elbow needs to be back more. Meaning my alignment was not right. I pushed harder back, opened my chest more. Bam, it worked after the next shot. Something to work on next practice. I am back to once a week in the dojo while I am working. I will pick that up more once my transportation Improves. My overall average was a little lower than the other night but not by much. I looked back at my shooting history, I am about where I was before the big drop into the 16 and 20% range of hits. The good thing now is I know just what to work on. Before I wondered, is it this or that. Now I know if this, this and this and this…are in place, I should hit! If not o am fairly certain of what I did wrong. Progress!

 

Music : Band

 

The Seiki band is back in rehearsals. We have another new dummy, a young guy. We have a full range of ages in the group. I am the oldest, but only by a tear or two. The drummer is the youngest. We play a range of music types. Including one funk the # 2 guitarist is a big funk fan, the #1 is a big Sam Cook era R&B fan. We will be an opening act for a couple of groups there at the Live House at the end of this month. I hear rumors of something else in Nov. none of which pay. Which I have grown to expect that of most gig here in Japan which this type of band. I have no expectations of making money with this anymore. It is a Hobby. I have lost, set aside that Stateside mentality of this being a business also. It is a Hobby. I am too old to think of it as anything else.

 

 

Music: Shakuhachi

 

With everything getting into a new normal and I am working, The Shakuhachi effort has resumed. The class will be starting next week, I am back to serious practice again.

We had our first Society meeting in a while. It was good to see the group again.
The kneeling stool I made worked perfectly! I could use it for kneeling or as a lift when just on the cushion! Yatta that worked out well.

It was only a small meeting only seven of us. It was held in the old location at a center because of virus concerns. We were able to keep a fair distance spread out. The room had air conditioning but was still feeling a bit stuffy to me. I had a concern about the airflow and the virus. I opened the windows behind us. No one wore masks I. The meeting. I was wondering how that would go. The strong breaths are the issue with expelling the virus. More so blowing the Shakuhachi, even with some distance spacing in sitting. So yeah I wanted the windows open, they were not at first, but I did think so when I checked they were not. I corrected that.

Usually, there is an amount of flute testing. Oota-san only brought in one to show. It had been artificially smoked. I noticed no one played it just looked, although one guy did blow. Another Sempai brought in several he had. He pretty much insisted that I play it. I did a couple of notes then just looked it over. I was wiping down an Oliver asked me did I want an alcohol wipe? I wish he had said that before I blew. Hopefully, I did not catch anything… If there is another time I will just have to hurt his feelings and say not safe. Overall though safe actions were about. I was watching and passed out along with Oliver, alcohol lotion at the restaurant. I was pretty alert most of the journey. It is a weird sense of time to be on alert about picking up something, but still, try to live and enjoy life and contacts. It is not easy being a social animal.

I am reading a book about an old zen master and his teaching of embracing death, then you do not fear it. It will come to all. One more than ever needs some type of training, faith, blindness to live, and continue in the current chaos. The books of Carlos Castaneda state depth is always our companion, deal with it!

 

Biking

 

A few days ago, I was off work due to big rains in the morning, but they only last a couple of hours in the morning. My work friend contacts us and says he will come over and work on the yard entrance for the bike. He and a friend of his show up a couple of hours later and make short work of the stone pillar. Nicely opening up the entrance so the bike can fit in easier. It took them about three hours. We thought there was going to be more work done but the hrs out that it fo the days. Which was fine. It is enough to take care of the major issuer. There is talk of working on the walkway, but that can be done at a late time. With all the rain it is not a good time to put down concrete anyway. There would be drying issues with the cement.

 

A couple of days later a lady from the bike shop called and said my bike was ready. We were expecting it to be another couple of weeks. The woman said the bike was in such good shape not much was needed to be done. I could pick it up when ready. They would hold it in the warehouse until I was able to get it, however long. Cool!

 

A couple of weeks ago I ordered a new helmet. Safety graded for Japan and the States. Several functions the main being the full face section was able to lift up. Handy when speaking with people, taking a drink, or just wanted to feel freer. I was expecting it to be a couple of weeks in shipping. It arrived today. Cool!

 

That is three unexpected coolness right after another. Yatta!

 

Tomorrow is my live driving test. It does not seem that hard, less than California, but Japan has some Japanese things going on differently. I have been watching YouTube instructions from others. Also, I have a walkthrough video I did. So I am as easy as I can get. Still, I have in mind the Japanese testing mind. Therefore I am not expecting to pass the first time, this is a trial test testing run. I will do my best but have no expectations except for me to do my best! I will use the Kyudo mind and pay attention to details. That is how they will be viewing. Yosh!

Ceramics

The class started last week. I took all my self in to be fired. This week I added some glaze to a couple of pieces and purchased some more class. There is no class next month for the heatstroke season of August and Obon. This week coming is the last for this month. I do not expect to have anything fired until Sept. then I will have to wait maybe another month for the second firing. It is a slow process there. I figure around the end of the year I will have all done from this run. I will continue with whatever until then. At the end of the year, I will take another few months’ break from there. Save money and just work on some home pieces. I will stock up on some clay during this time.

So much for “This”, next is “That”

 

 

Back to the Mato

Back to the Mato

 

The other day after checking out some motorbikes, I went by the Kyudojo. I have been just practicing at home during this whole virus thing. A friend who is a go-dan in the States has been giving me some training tips that he can transfer over to the Mato. I have been working on it. Along with the things my sense is had given me before the lockdown something’s I had found on my own.

I was feeling fairly comfortable with the new way of holding the Ya. I also figured out that I really really really need to focus on pressing down my shoulders also when in Kai give an extra push to extend my right shoulder back and stretch my left. It seems to tighten my body alignment for a better arrow travel path. I had not as yet had a chance to test all this out on the full range but only on the Makiwara, and using one inch cut out bulls eyes and recommend by my friend. On the Makiwara, it seemed to help I could hit the mini Mato of alt least come close to it much more consistently.

 

So now with the Dojo open again I could test myself. I found out it was not as crowded as I thought it would be and the entry system was it as complex. I thought it would ebony one person at a time practicing, but when I arrived there were three others and was told even four is ok. So I was able to shoot with no problem. I guess more than 6 is a no-no. Anyway, it was a Sat night when I arrived which is usually not a busy time. There were a couple of classmates there and one person from another school. I greeted my friend and joked with her a bit before getting down to work.

 

I was pleased with my shooting all. It was not great but for sure better. The things were working. There was one thing that needed to adjust, at home a use a different Yumi so I did need to readjust some things for that, still, overall I did well. The last time shooting I was in the low 30% or less, this time I was about 45%.

 

The test will be my next visit. In the past, I do well one day then suck the next! So if I can maintain or do better steadily I will feel like I am improving. Maybe I will try the Shinsa at the end of the year if there is one by then. If not, oh well! The journey is the adventure. Nothing will change in my life passing or not. Other than bragging rights…LoL!

Update, I went to the Dojo tonight. In fact, just came home from a Sat night practice. As I was coming in several Sensei were leaving. Ohhh we said! long time no see! “Hisashiburi”. a few jokes about Americans being foolish about wearing masks, and they were off into the night. That left just Yumi-chan and me. She generally comes in after work on Sat like me to practice cause it is quiet and relaxed. She only stayed for an hour then she took off. Said she was burnt out from work.
So once again alone from a Night practice. My favorite. I worked with my to different Yumi’s to check myself. The corrections I have found on myself are true on both Yumi’s. The total hits for the night were @ 38.48%, the other night it was @ 42.31. So a drop but not a great deal. When I missed I could figure out why so yeah, I am making progress! I am close to breaking out of this slump…Yatta!

Once I get my wheels I will be uping my Dojo time to twice a week. Then three when the Shinsa is in operation again. “Fighto”

Yuki

Snow in the summer

Funny how things turn out, one thing into another once a step is taken. Like Domino falling.

A friend from work, a co-worker a team leader, he let me drive his Honda PXS scooter in the parking lot a few months back. That is what really got me interested in getting a scooter. I liked the style. It was like a mix of a Motorcycle and a scooter. Cool, sporty, yet practical of a scooter.

One day a week or so ago, I mentioned I was getting my license soon and would buy a bike. He had another co-worker take me to a bike shop one day during a long break in between jobs. I was not expecting it and really did not fully understand what was happening. Anyway, the shop was closed! He said he would take me another day since he was free. So the scooter owner and coworker take me to the shop again it is closed, so he tries another, and that was also close. It had been forgotten that most shops and somethings are closed mid-week and open on the weekend. He aid he would take me another time.

That evening he sent me a link to a couple of used bike shops in town. One was a big place well known for big scooters. My co-worker, Sumita-san, said he would take me, but he was going out of town that weekend to Hiroshima. I thanked him!

After finding out where the place was, it was easy for me to get there by train, and not far from where I often go. So I went on my own. I figured to go then stop by the Kyudojo on the way home and just make a day trip of the whole thing.

That part worked out fine. More on that later…

I make it to the shop they have several of the bikes I wanted. My plan was just to take a look and get some measurements from the bike. One thing I was sure was going to be an issue is getting it into our yard for parking and not in the street. I was thinking if the measurements do not work I will need to choose another bike.

I checked out the bike, the salesman gave me the rundown on everything. I could not understand everything but enough. I said I will have my wife call with questions. Once home I told my wife about it and showed her the store and bike ad. However, I also saw the same bike but with lower mileage and ABS braking system at the same store for only a little bit more money. I said this is the one I would really prefer. Please call and ask these questions, I gave her. The shorten the tale. She ended up after the call and us talking recalling the store and making arrangements for a deposit to be made. All that done! A trip to the city hall was needed to report I was buying a bike, done the next day! All the arrangements have been made and the final payment will be made next week. She decided not to finance the bike but to use the money from the government Corona payment and just pay the whole thing! Awww yeah!

Now it is a matter of waiting a couple of weeks or so for them to fully go over the bike and check and replace things that are needed or will be needed soon by factor specs. That is part of their service. Also included is a year riding insurance and a 3 mon warranty, or the option of 6. Nice. So all that fell into place. All I need now is a driver’s license.

There is one other thing that is still an issue. The bike will not fit through our gate. Again Sumita-san steps in. He came by the house to look at what he thought was my repair on our entrance walkway. There my wife was able to explain clearly what was needed, there happened to be a guy there giving us an estimate in replacing the walkway. I thought if I had it lowered the bike would fit through the gate ( you would need to see it to understand), although with some careful effort. Sumita-san says, it is a Bad Idea, the bike will get damaged and it will be a hassle moving it. It is simpler just to remove one of the pillars or cut it. I thought it was some dense rock/stone. He says no! It can be done, in fact, he can do it! Then with more talking, he calls his friend over a pro at this type of thing. They both agree better to remove and replace the pillar, not too difficult. Sumita-san says he can do it and the walkway repair also some spot that needs to have water drainage to stop the pooling of water that is occurring. Wow! Turns out he is quite handy, he built his garage and said he can borrow the tools needed from our workplace. Wow! So all that fill into place as a blessing from the Universe!

Funny how things sometimes just work out. While we were waiting for his friend to show up, we talked, we he and my wife. Found out he is an ex-cop! He worked on several big cases in his time, Also found out about the operation of the job! Some people there are lazy, some of the new people from just a couple of days ago quit. It is not an easy job for wimpy people! They are organizing more now into two groups. The hard work spears are the “A-team”, the slower, weak, lazy workers, are the “B team” they will do more of the park type work, where no one will complain of it is too slow. I am on the”A” team. I do not complain, don’t talk much just work. People notice, someone, is always watching, even though it does not seem like it. I had figured as much anyway. It is anyway my style just to do my job being watched or not! The end shows my effort. However, it is good to know my work is appreciated!

So, anyway, things are going well with the new bike, which I have named “Snow = Yuki”. I am changing from my all black USA biking style gear to white. Like my old Porsche. It looks cool, also easier to see! Finally, I have something to look forward to again. It has been a while. I am already planning my trips. I most likely have said some of this before. With my birthday coming up next month a big milestone one! If all goes well I will do my first trip on my birthday. A gift from the Universe…

A new blog segment if not a new blog. A man, a bike, a Shakuhachi.

….Amitoufo

On the road again – Japan

Getting on the Road

 

Getting on the road in Japan’ has been a hassle. A real pain in the butt.

 

However, first, let’s back up some. One time on reflections of the changes in life and the still-active sadness of losing my boat, I thought well I have no real travel goals now. Boatless in Japan for the most part. That part of the adventure in life is over. Then there was the smallest thought of exploring Japan by motorbike. Later by some twist of fact, it was approved that I could get a cycle! Another bit of fate is getting some government assistance in Japan due to the virus = Buying power with no loan!!!

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Then came the process of getting a driving license in Japan! Yet another big hurdle. We went to the DMV of Japan it was supposed to be a somewhat simple process, maybe for other places but nothing is simple in Japan and government. We spent the whole day at the office. They asked questions, after questions after questions. Things that at almost 70 who could recall from driving since a teen! Yet they wanted to know! How many questions on my test, what did it cover, how many tests, describe the road test process. After all, that was done still I was not approved even though I had done and shown everything they wanted, I needed to prove I was living in the States for at least 3 months after my license was issued! OMG, really?!

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After this setback, I had to contact my former apt manger and get her to write a letter stating I was there for a year, plus had my older license to show that I was there at that time. Luckily I still had it! From that period so I was covered. So I thought!

 

Next trip to DMV they checked stuff again, ok I was good. However, since I had something they could not verify so they wanted me to sign a “new” drivers form which would be marked on my license I was a new driver and subject to intense observation, and points given for a mistake. Fortunately for me, I had an even older license from another state which could prove I have been driving for many many years! This was calculated and approved after I gave them copies! Jheeez, OMG!

 

Next up I needed an eye test and a written test. The eye test passed I was a bit concerned about that as one eye is weaker than the other. However, it went well. Next to the written test. The whole process of transferring the license was so I would not have to answer some 50 some questions. Instead, I only had 10 which were very basic and common sense. Finally finally finally I got through all of that. I was given a date for a driving test. I needed to do two. One for the motorcycle and one for the car. They wanted me to select an auto or standard shift on the bike and car! OmG!

Ok, I complied. I was told I could walk the dive course at a certain time, which was coming up soon! (We held back on going to lunch until after this.) They do not test on the streets in Japan but on a course. You are given a map which HAS to be memorialized! Beforehand. I walked the course and filmed, which I find out later was not suppose to do. Oh well!

 

The course does not seem that hard and I saw youtube vid of people doing it. The thing is one needs to follow Japanese style when taking the test, even on things that have nothing to do with the actual driving skills. Ok, the kyudo training has me understanding that mindset. It is said the bike test is really difficult! Ok. I am prepared to fail it the first time Testing the waters, like with my taking the Yondan test, just to feel it! I will be prepared and more so, but also to fail the first one. A practice run, so to speak.

 

Afterward, the car test which is again extremely difficult because they want you to fail to keep comping back at a price. Or take an expensive class, about 1 or 2 thousand U.S. dollars, which are run by ex-police test drivers. Most of those who have passed the test have taken one type of extra side training class to learn the “tricks” they are looking for. It is a rigged system! I have a 1/2 day course arranged for the car, but first the bike test I want to get behind me.

 

I am hoping to have all this done by the end of summer and purchase a bike by Autumn! Which maybe sooner than later, if I find the right bike. I have already found the type and color I want. I found with help from a co-worker, a used big scooter dealer. He took me to. a couple of new dealers, but it turned out their day off. He then sent me a link to this used place. He said he would take me there. However he is out of town this weekend, and I can get there easily by train. So I will not have to bother him. I will buy him lunch sometime for his efforts. He owners a Honda scooter which first got me interested. He let me drive in the parking lot at work once. Nice bike, but I want one just a bit larger than his, so I can go on the highway and touring comfortably. I already have my first three or four places to visit picked out!!! yeah, baby yeah!

When I left the States I packed my biking leathers, just in case it was my hope. I dug them out, they are ready. I did buy a new used helmet. Because I needed it for my test. I will order a new one with a color change from Black in the states to White in Japan to match the new bike. It is the color the cops have. It looks cool and is safer, easier to spot, more so at night. The Wife approves! Important!!!!

I may not make Yondan this year, but having a bike again will comfort my spirit and be of a more usable in life value.

I had one concern about the bike. I Want to park it in our yard. Perfect idea, but would it fit through the gate with is large stones as a pillar!? I measured, I checked the size of the bike On line, I measured again. It would be tight but could fit if done carefully. There was one thing that was troublesome the gate pillars have some sharp edges that stuck out and are right on the edge on the entering size needed open. I found I can trim them with my Dremel tool and diamond blade and grinders. Very Cool! yeah Baby!

 

On another note, my bands are starting up…more on that next.

Also, the Shakuhachi club is starting the meeting again. However ina different location with a large room and more air.

Also hoping to get to the Kyudojo this weekend. I was told it is not too crowded. I will go on Sat after checking out some bikes!

Onward …Yosh!

Stay Safe… Amitoufo

Returning

 

Returning

It is now mid-June, there has been only one maybe two new reported Cv19 cases in Osaka. Tokyo has had many more, last I heard was just over 40. No matter. Osaka is better. People are adapting well to the new standards.

I returned to work last week, my job is outside an not really in close contact with people, still, I wear a mask in the truck when in Transport.

I had lunch out last week, it was good came across a friend who joined me. We keep social distance while eating. It was fine only a little weird at first. 

Yesterday was my first real venture out into the world, almost a two hr train ride, plus a change walking though a major change point. Everyone had masks, I have a bottle of alcohol with me for Tavel although I make it a point not to touch stuff in transit. I needed to pick up some things from the marina, that I was gifted a while back but could not make it over. I also needed to drop off some things.

The last stop of the trip was at Komyoji temple. I had a load of vegetables from my garden to drop off, plus my wife was sending something to thank them for always feeding me when I visit.

It was supposed to be a day of heavy rain, but I was lucky and did not get much at least while I was out and about. The was quite a downpour at one point but I was at the temple by then. Full of food and drink, while the heavy rain fell in the garden we sat with the door open. I could hear, see and smell the rain as it poured through the Bamboo in the garden. The garden there and the temple is one of my favorite places. Osho-san and I for a long time were the only ones there other than his wife who served us food and drinks. The only one there as far as the garden sitting room. There were many others in the temple doing a ceremony, copying sutras. I have done that before there and enjoyed it. At the time my friend who spoke English was there she helped me understand what was being done and I needed to do! Anyway, it was enjoyable, like doing a pleasant meditation without the effort of sitting correctly!

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Osho-san and I had a pleasant visit. Speaking in a combination of Japanese and English we talked on several topics. Buddhist stuff, Martial arts, Shakuhachi. He had mentioned something about me doing a Zazen class there. I am all for that. There would be some small charge for anyone attending. I really had no concern for that, it can be a donation to the temple. Just getting to do the session is good for me. I will speak to him more about it another time. I did hear him speaking about me to one of the temple members as they were leaving about me. I think it was something to do with teaching Zazen but I am not sure as I did not get all of it.

It is a challenge doing so in Japanese, but I have done it before and I have info printed in Japanese from that time. I hope this works out. It will give me more a sense of purpose and advancing my ministry, also I will need to step up my Japanese. It will also help expand the offerings at the temple for the members, an really help me feel I am adding to the temple and it is my temple also.

*update*

It has been confirmed I will be doing a monthly Zazen session at the temple. I submitted a plan to Osho-san he approved. We even set a date to start. I just need to now write up a little profile piece for advertising. Cool! It will not be a regular just sit and not think meditation, but something of my own design from my training. It will be interesting.
Now if I can just get a Tai Chi and or Kung Fu Class going that would be perfect! That really needs to wait until I get my personal transportation vehicle. Next week I go in for my written driver’s test. That is the easy part of the process. The road test will be a challenge.

I will do my best, but not expect to pass on the first go. First the bike test, then the car. One step at a time. The bike is my main focus right now… yosh!

Small steps are still steps… Amitoufo

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Post isolation

Post – lockdown/Isolation life

 

It is now a couple of days into the post-lockdown, not really lockdown, lockdown in Osaka. Tokyo was kept on hold for a few more days, but Osaka got time off for good behavior. Even so things are not quite back to as before, Live-houses are still on shutdown, but a few are open for limited business and hours. The Kyudojo is open for limited hours and functions. Slowly things are getting up to speed. I am not in a rush to get back out there. Although I do miss the Shakuhachi gatherings and the temple.

 

Speaking of which I am not sure how the Society meetings will function, with all that heavy breathing in a small space. I saw somewhere someone with a trumpet mask on their horn, maybe something like that will be needed or meeting outside. It is a new world of dangers, more so for us older folks.

 

As for me at home, I have completed three clay projects and starting on a fourth and last before I am out of clay. It is difficult. I am trying to make a small fireplace/pit for the Autumn to enjoy on the lanai garden. So far my first attempt is not so good. However I am learning as I go. Like making it a two-piece unit is going to be easier than a one piece. I am trying to save my first try as I go along. The bottom is easy, the top is difficult!! The nice thing about clay is I can re-soften and start again. However my attempt to repair the base of my Komuso is not going well and to start over would be tragic. Since it is just for me, oh well I will just live with what happens and try another later. It was a lot of effort to create. Yet that too was a learning event. Art is like that until you get it down. I saw this Japanese Drama show about a potter and her attempts to get a good firing and the cost, not only in money but her marriage. I believe the ceramic club will open by July. That was when I had planned on returning before all this madness started so that is cool. I will have some things to fire and glaze. At that time I can stock up on more clay before taking another few months break. I like working at home then going in to finish things up. I get more done at my own place. The club meetings are only a couple of hours a week. They are good for doing the glazing mostly, at least for me.

 

My lanai garden projects are finished. So all there is now is just the growing and enjoying part. Some things are already starting to flower. The Basil is weird this year not sure what is happening. I started a couple of new plants off the one I purchased. they are doing better. Strange thing a few are already trying to bud, but the season is just getting started! Weird.

One thing for sure has been of great use is building the bench out there was a great idea. I can enjoy just sitting there and vibing with the plants sometimes besides playing Shakuhachi there. It is kind of like sitting at the garden in Kyomyoji temple. The mosquitos have arrived so I have set up a repellent burning dish. I do not believe it kills them it just keep them away. Maybe just hides one’s scent from them. I have no compassion for mosquitoes so whatever is fine as long as I do not get bites!

 

My home projects are coming to an end. I still have some things to do in the front garden. Then it is just reading, study, practice. I am planning on still chilling for another month and see how things go. When I am out I will still act like something is trying to kill me if I am not on guard…more than usual.

As far as Osaka overall that I can see. People are complying with the request to chill. Once opened there are a number of people out and about at the mall, but almost all wear masks. Stores have alcohol at the door, people use it freely. There are plastic shields at the checkout, the checkers wear gloves and masks. I went to the 7-11 last night. I notice a couple of customers not wearing masks, but it was late at night, so…I guess ok. However once one starts getting slack, it is easier to get more slack.

We have a selection of masks on the wall by our keys. Dress, casual, serious, just out for a walk…It is a new world. I am shocked to see how much of a big deal some Americans are making about wearing a mask, but these same Americans want to make kids wear bulletproof backpacks as the price for freedom, but wearing a mask is against that freedom. Weird!

A friend who is a good Kyudo shot, a go-dan gave me a drill to help with hitting. It is will he said will work going from Makiwara to Mato. It will help my targeting. I am trying and will see. I would really really like to pass to Yon-dan this year. I will not make it before my birthday, because of the virus shutdown, but if I can make it to the one Shinsa this year and pass, that would be wonderful! I would feel like I accomplished something!
Word today from the Kyudojo is, it is open – sort of! For private training. However, you can not call to reserve. You have to show up and check if it is available, then you can wait if it is in use or you can try another time and day. but you have to do it in person! Messed up system! Oh well. I had not planned ongoing for at least a couple of weeks later on anyway. Perhaps it will settle down more by then.

And speaking of Kyudo it is time for me to practice, so I’m out …later!
stay safe peeps! Amitoufo