This is an article that I mashed together based on principles of cleaning that apply to helping out with my karate school. Let me know what you think......
Cleaning is an active prayer of thanks or appreciation for the Dojo.
Sensei does so much for all of us, and one of the best way that you can show respect toward him and your school is to help keep the dojo clean. Our dojo is not only a reflection of our Sensei but also of all his students.
All students in Japan, participate in o soji, or the cleaning of the school at the end of every day. They sweep the classrooms and the hallways, empty trash cans, clean restrooms, clean chalkboards and chalk erasers, and pick up trash from the school grounds. After o soji, class is dismissed. This holds true in Karate schools as well. The floors and mirrors are cleaned and the equipment is put away after each class by the students. The next class cannot begin until these duties are performed.
In our school cleaning should be viewed as an active prayer of thanksgiving. It is each student’s responsibility to assist in cleaning the dojo and to cleanse his or her own mind and heart. It connects the student with the school as he or she places takes personal responsibility for his or her environment. This is for the purpose of not only creating a good learning environment and atmosphere by themselves, but also for students appreciating the value of work and public mind.
Right now your probably asking yourself, “Okay. How does this apply to me?”
If you see something out of place or messy – please, take a moment and clean it up. Also, in the same respect, if you make a mess, stop and clean it up. This goes for all students. If you use equipment, take time to help put it away after you are finished with it. There are many times where class ends and there is equipment is left lying around all over the place. All it takes is a few minutes after class to straighten up and work together to keep things tidy.
It doesn’t take much effort. Please help out, there is so much to clean when classes are over. Sensei, Joe and Jenny are frequently cleaning the dojo till late hours of the night. They have to do this all by themselves, on top of all the other duties that come with running the dojo. Believe me they could really use some help.
On a personal note, I try to make time to clean after every visit I make to the dojo. I know I sound like a goody two shoes or something, but please don’t get me wrong. I know better than anyone there always are times when you have obligations and appointments after class. When you can make time after class, and I know everyone does have some free time, please help clean. Any way you can keep the dojo tidy would be deeply appreciated.
If you have extra time after class ask Sensei or Jenny if there is anything you can do to help out.. If everyone were to pitch in and help out just a little bit, it would make things easier on everyone, especially Sensei. There is always something that needs to be done.
Love your dojo, respect your dojo. Help keep your dojo clean.
Regards,
James Richtsmeier
