Message from Soke (1) (July/02/2000) (On oversea seminars by Japanese Shihan & behavior on the Internet)
*From the Webmaster --
Soke, Nagato-shihan and I had a small meeting on July 2 and I was asked to spread the following message from Soke.
(This is NOTwhat Soke wrote by himself. We had a talk and I compiled what (I think) Soke had told me to spread. I believe I never miss his points here, but I can't guarantee that my memory is perfect. Additionally, my English is far from perfect. So, please try not to read it literally but to catch his feelingas we are often told at his classes.)
Here we go.
It seems that many overseas training participants would like Japanese Shihan to conduct seminars at their places.
Yet, if these Japanese Shihan were to conduct oversea seminars, I see the potential for numerous problems. For example, if a participant were to be injured, it's possible the conductor could be sued for damages and then his life could be severely affected. Even if they were to contract beforehand not to sue for damages, such a contract might not act as expected.
Furthermore, if the injured party were a member of the Armed Forces etc., it's possible a political problem might arise.
Due mainly to the reason stated above, I can not permit Japanese Shihan to go overseas and conduct seminars. Therefore, I'd like everyone not to ask Japanese Shihan to conduct oversea seminars.
I know that some people still want to do so in spite of my decision. Yet, as the level of their skill has advanced recently in various countries, I feel it's best if you yourselves conduct these seminars. There's no reason to go all the way to asking Japanese Shihan to conduct these seminars. Be confident and persevere.
Recently, all sort of information has found its way across the Internet, making for give-&-take exchanges in regards to information and opinions, which is important. However, the truth is that the Internet poses many dangers. That is why I'd like to ask you to always think "If I write this in this manner, will it produce a problem or not?" For example, in regards to information concerning dojos, it's better not to post fees, etc.(This seems to be only for Japanese dojos for the time being.-- Ohashi).
(From Ohashi : Other examples. It's necessary to take care not to get harassed by others when you post contact information. Also, I'd kindly ask that we all take caution to alleviate disputes on bulletin boards and mailing lists.)
(Japanese version on July/02/2000, English version on July/05(&08)/2000, colored on April/14/2001 by Ohashi) *Special thanks to Mr. Jion Prosser (@Tendai Lotus Teachings)