The Party Is Over

 

I remember a short story by Jorge Louis Borges, “The Circual Ruins” where as a young man he began a journey at a temple in the jungle. And when he arrived at the end of his journey years later he was at the same temple. (with appoligies if my summary is inaccurate.)

 

That describes how I feel, In 1979 I began teaching at the Scranton Boys Club, then moving an beginning anew at the Derry Boys and Girls Club in 1985.

 

Now this journey ends at Derry, and I turn over my role at the club to Mike Cassidy and Young Lee, both of whom started in 1985.

 

In many ways full circle.

 

Also appropriate is what I recall of a short poem by Theodore Rothke.

 

‘If you travel far enough,

You will get there.

All your friends will be there,

And they will all have chairs.’

 

I am sure that is not totally accurate but it does describe what I feel.

 

Last night, Mike ran a review class for the kids before the summer break, Then the kids drew a kata at random from a hat and did that kata. I then did Sanchin Kata for them.

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My Sanchin for them,

The stances clean,

Power in movement,

Finished strong.

 

Then I spoke a few words for them and they had some cake, which the kids appreciated.

For the adult class I focused on some practical applications for them. Then gave a few words of advice about their future training. And of course ran several kata.

 

Just another night of Karate Class, but for me the last one here.

 

 

There is much I am still trying to learn and share.

 

Yes the Boys and Girls Club did give a recognition plack recognizing over 30 years of volunteer service, then they named the room after me, so future generations of kids can be mystified who that guy was.

 

A end, A beginning, the Journey begins again.