This entry is originally from the Aikido of San Diego Newsletter:

This summer we will be moving to a new facility very close to our present dojo (6356 Riverdale St, 92120). The new dojo will be in a very nice street-side location walking distance to many of the places our members go to regularly. It’s definitely a more “polished” and visible location, and the facility itself will reflect that. As we approach the transition, I’m noticing what this process has brought up for me. When I made the deal for the new space I felt an enormous sense of relief. It marked the end of year-long process in which I heavily invested myself. During that time I contemplated the risks of change. What would be best for the dojo membership? What might the consequences be for our students, me, and my family? What I discovered was that the nature of risk is much like the way Nage enters into attack—uncertain yet clear, unattached yet committed. I discovered that gut feelings are good, and really knowing where you stand makes them great. I also discovered that I had even more support than I anticipated as I spoke to people about the future of the dojo. That has been very inspiring and motivating. Now, as we move into this final stage of actually moving, my relief has turned to excitement and I look forward to the process of creating a new space for us to train in, grow, and flourish as a community.

Details on the exact transition date and preparations will go out to the membership soon. There will also be some information on our website shortly. For our present members with any of the expected concerns on the change, here’s some vital info: (1) The location will not adversely effect anyone’s commute, (2) our mat space will be about the same, (3) membership fees will not have to go up in the short term, and (4) there’s plenty of parking.

Here’s some spontaneous words on Risk:

The face of risk
unveiling the crux of evolution
whines, shrugs it off, and then invites
Questionable yet uncomfortable
Then a choice, action, maybe inaction
and a moment of loneliness
yielding to singular movement
The kind that doesn’t mind a few more Ukes
No trial offers, no guarantees
Just a few buttons on your control panel
and Trust