Edmonton Northern River Karate School

Jonathan Ward (Shodan)

Ken and Jon met in Edmonton classical music circles, and they often found themselves talking about martial arts after a music event. It was close to ten years between their first conversation on the subject and Jon’s first class as a member of the Northern River Karate School.

Jon says, “I could see that Ken was sincere and open-hearted, not motivated to do harm or to pose as the most dangerous guy around. That open-heartedness seems very present in the whole membership. For example, we don't bow and thank each other after a partner's drill because we were told to do it, we bow and thank each other because we mean it. We look after each other and work hard together.”

Jon’s karate work is characterized by quiet strength and commitment, and his deep respect for Karate and his fellow students.

“I like that the curriculum is fairly small, but very deep. The richness of each kata reveals the profound understanding of the body in the minds of those who designed them. It's quite inspiring.

I think partly what sustains my practice is that I feel invested in the work. I feel that it's something I'm supposed to be doing. When I'm reluctant to go to class or to step into a sparring circle and I do show up or step up, it's because I feel a responsibility to learn the material, to participate in the dojo, and to show respect for the teaching. Also, it's very rewarding to catch a glimpse of the depth and subtlety in Uechi in that
flash of recognition you get when you know you've done something right.”

Jon has a BA in English and Semantics, and a certificate in Arts Administration. He likes to hike in the mountains, or in wild spaces near the city. He likes to read books on science, history, human nature, etc. When he can tear himself away from the GameCube or his Firefly DVDs he writes CD reviews for Mote Magazine www.moregoatthangoose.com .

Jon is the 3rd President of the ENRKSA board and half of the Association's grant-writing team.

Home	Jonathan Ward (Shodan) Ken and Jon met in Edmonton classical music circles, and they often found themselves talking about martial arts after a music event. It was close to ten years between their first conversation on the subject and Jon’s first class as a member of the Northern River Karate School. Jon says, “I could see that Ken was sincere and open-hearted, not motivated to do harm or to pose as the most dangerous guy around. That open-heartedness seems very present in the whole membership. For example, we don't bow and thank each other after a partner's drill because we were told to do it, we bow and thank each other because we mean it. We look after each other and work hard together.” Jon’s karate work is characterized by quiet strength and commitment, and his deep respect for Karate and his fellow students. “I like that the curriculum is fairly small, but very deep. The richness of each kata reveals the profound understanding of the body in the minds of those who designed them. It's quite inspiring. I think partly what sustains my practice is that I feel invested in the work. I feel that it's something I'm supposed to be doing. When I'm reluctant to go to class or to step into a sparring circle and I do show up or step up, it's because I feel a responsibility to learn the material, to participate in the dojo, and to show respect for the teaching. Also, it's very rewarding to catch a glimpse of the depth and subtlety in Uechi in that flash of recognition you get when you know you've done something right.” Jon has a BA in English and Semantics, and a certificate in Arts Administration. He likes to hike in the mountains, or in wild spaces near the city. He likes to read books on science, history, human nature, etc. When he can tear himself away from the GameCube or his Firefly DVDs he writes CD reviews for Mote Magazine www.moregoatthangoose.com . Jon is the 3rd President of the ENRKSA board and half of the Association's grant-writing team.	"You step forward and strike; your arm is completely relaxed; it feels like nothing at all. Don't try to hit him with power - you'll interfere. Just relax and act. Let me assure you, no exertion of strength is used." Peter Ralston