The same lesson applies to success in life. We gain nothing without discipline, patience, and persistent effort. Nothing is given you before you first give it your all. Beginners in Aikido often face the lack of competition and immediate acquisition of skills in training. They tend to overlook the underlying philosophy of Aikido that teaches that there is a way to defend yourself without causing damage.
Persistent practice is the only way to develop physically and mentally.
The techniques of Aikido are a physical demonstration of that principle. It is through persistent training that a student will come to the point that they stay relaxed in their body and calm in their minds, even under attack. This mental attitude is not just for practicing Aikido in the Dojo, but also outside the Dojo walls in our lives. The secret of immortality is living a life worth remembering. Today we honor two such lives that walk the same path.