On my way back from Okinawa I spent a couple of days in Tokyo where from 18c and sunny to snow on the ground it was just like being back in London, I went to see someone I have not seen for 18 years, arriving at my destination I was met by Ayako Hizume San a student of Kato Sensei’s.
On arriving at Kato Sensei home I was so excited and could not wait to see him, when we met I was overcome with emotion and hug him which is not really the oriental way, but I miss him so much and because he is Japanese he maintained his cultural up bringing.
In the evening Oksan (his wife) came back from work, and when she saw me she was so surprised and excited, then we all sat and drank tea and talked for hours, the next morning I woke at 6.45am to sound of people outside and it was really cold, there were about 25 children and 10 adults all in Karate – Do gi’s, I later found out the this was the New Year celebration training which would be a 6 kilometre run followed by one hour Dojo training.
After that everyone was treated to a meal but first the tables were put out in the Dojo and cushions to sit on, and then the food was served by the Adults and to our delight it was hot curry and rice with green tea, the children even wanted second helpings.
I am really happy to be reunited with Kato San after so many years apart although it just felt like it was yesterday.
My special thanks to Thomas Miller for making this possible.