Full of high sentence, but a bit obtuse;

At times, indeed, almost ridiculous—

Almost, at times, the Fool.

 

I grow old . . . I grow old . .

I shall wear the bottoms of my trousers rolled.

 

Shall I part my hair behind? Do I dare to eat a peach?

I shall wear white flannel trousers, and walk upon the beach.

 

Taken from T.S. Elliott’s “The Love-Song of J. Alfred Prufrock”

Today I have reached 65 years of age, a ripening number. Unfortunately not making me wiser or better person. My medical condition has been changed from Myasthenia Gravis to Paraneoplastic Neuromyopathy & Neuropathy, which really means they aren’t yet sure what I have or how to treat it. I continue as before, less balance, weaker, unclear speech and the rest.

 

I spend much of my day reflecting on martial matters, and I train and exercise as best I am able.

 

Unfortunately my tai chi is almost impossible because of lack of balance. My Isshinryu remains and I help teach the youth classes assisting the most capable Mike Cassidy and Young Lee. My instructor Charles Murray also makes regular appearances to train with us. Somehow I am most fortunate to keep instructing the adult program, but it is challenging for me. Yet, my applications still work, much to the dismay of the others who try and attack me.

 

I owe a great deal to all the medical professionals who have helped me along this way, through the type 2 diabetes, the rectal cancer cure and now in my current condition.

 

I owe even more to my wife Maureen who continues to provide me so much help, that I love her is hardly enough. Picking her up at the beach, going on three dates and then a lifetime of her love means so much after 40 years.

 

 For my students, I often think of the future say 20 years from now, when I am a past footnote. Remember this, Isshinryu takes place on the dojo floor. That is the strongest organization.

I am become unto Elliott’s Profrock.