On-yumishi Kanjuro Shibata XX
1921 - 2013
One is not polishing one's shooting style or technique, but the mind. The dignity of shooting is the important point. This is how Kyudo differs from the common approach to archery. In Kyudo there is no hope. Hope is not the point. The point is that through long and genuine practice your natural dignity as a human being comes out. This natural dignity is already in you, but it is covered up by a lot of obstacles. When they are cleared away, your natural dignity is allowed to shine forth.
— Kanjuro Shibata
I was saddened to learn this morning that our Sensei Kanjuro Shibata XX had quietly passed away in his home with his wife at his side. His widow's message to Sensei's students was just as poignant and dignified as the man himself. I never had the pleasure to meet Sensei and receive instruction from him directly but I have read his writings and through the magic of the internet and YouTube, I was able to know Sensei as a man who lived his life as an example to all of his students.
While part of me is saddened with Sensei's passing and the thought of never getting to learn from him directly, another part of me cannot help but feel a sense of gladness because Sensei did get to live the life he chose and that he had a long life surrounded by people who wanted to make the world a better place by "polishing their hearts" and become better, dignified people. I also feel a sense of relief knowing that Sensei no longer has to suffer from the constant struggle to breathe.
Rest in Peace, Sensei. You will always be in our hearts and your spirit will be with us as we engage in practice together across the globe, continuing along the path to enlightenment and true warriorship.
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