That is why I cannot simply put in one word what is the essence of Aikido. Aikido is difficult to learn because Aikido requires 'perfectness' in all its aspects. So it is a very difficult martial art. When you learn Aikido you get very serious, and naturally as you study how to approach and how to do Aikido, you realize you cannot approach Aikido casually. The level of the Aikido is also growing so the students may catch up with instructors.
Instructors have to train themselves harder and think harder.
Somebody is always seeking for technique in Aikido. That is why I'm saying if the instructor stops thinking or working technically and the students catch up, not only Aikido but in anything, if you stop thinking then that thing stops growing. Aikido is growing because somebody is always thinking. So as long as people's real thinking is growing, Aikido is growing. With some conditions, I think that overall the current level of Aikido in the United States is the best in the world.