Seattle Branch, U.S.A. / May 2008 - Contributor: Branch Master Hiroshi Onaka

Spring Snow & Unforgettable Wedding

Here in the King County area, we had late spring snow on April 18, breaking a record standing since 1973. That weekend was the Seattle Cherry Blossom Festival and we, Seattle Branch, participated with embu as usual on April 20. I was concerned about this snow not only for the festival but also for another big event on April 19 - the wedding of one of my students, Andrew Schneiderman (Shokenshi 2nd Dan).

I still remember well when I met him the first time as I passed through customs at the Seattle airport. Coming back from a business trip from Japan, I was told that they would further check my all belongings, opening them one by one - perhaps because I looked strange or had many bags, I had no idea. The inspector opened my bags and found my dogi and black belt. He suddenly made Gasshou Rei to me and told me, "Sorry about this, Onaka-sensei. It is all right. Please proceed to the exit." It was Andrew. He introduced himself to me, explaining that he had moved from Portland to Seattle for work, and he was planning to come soon to Seattle branch to continue Shorinji Kempo.

For his wedding ceremony, another of my kenshi, Andrew Crowder, served as Best Man and some other kenshi attended as well. Right before the ceremony began, the snow stopped falling and the solemn ceremony was carried out with some light-hearted moments. And a big surprise was waiting for all of us kenshi. The pastor quoted in Japanese - and of course explained in English - the words of a wise Japanese man's philosophy. Can you guess what? Yes, it was, "The person, the person, the person, everything depends on the quality of the person," and "Live half for yourself and half for others." Then the pastor, Andrew and his betrothed Aubrianne all did gasshou rei to each other. I did not know anything about this and of course I was so surprised and felt so happy to see that one of my students carried out what they believe right beyond race, nationality and religion.

One week before this wedding, Aubrianne's father had passed away. She showed the best hospitality to all while bearing her sadness, which all of us could understand well and tried to share with her. The reception was also great and I told myself that it is much more difficult to live out our teachings than to simply understand them. It is my pleasure and honor to have such a student.

Needless to say, it stopped snowing as we went home and saw the sunshine. Aubrianne and Andrew, congratulations again! Keep your warm hearts, enjoy having your joyful home together and share your happiness with others. We all here together support it. As one of Aubrianne's best friends said, may the wedding ceremony day be the unhappiest day hereafter for both of you. Only much happier days await you as you walk towards your goals together!

Gasshou,
Hiroshi Onaka
Seattle Branch Master

 

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