Karate and a Pause to Reflect

I felt sense of peace envelope me as I walked through the gate of Lycée Charles de Gaulle, past the administrative buildings, and across the sand toward the dojo. A soccer match was in progress on the sports field. I reached the Sor-Karate dojo and paused to bow at the threshold, then stepped through. One by one as the senseis noticed me, they paused their instruction to turn in my direction and bow. I bowed to each, in turn. Reluctant as I was to disturb the class in session, my excitement to be present in this special place had won out. Sensei Ignéty Bâ left his students in the good hands of another and came to greet me.

“c’est ton dojo” he assured me, when I apologized for the interruption. I did not come to train this time, but to observe, pay my respects, and to see Robbie’s protégés: 9 young karateka participating in this very class. The newest little girl, Astou, a white belt in the front row of beginners, was strong and confident, her kions impressively precise for her young age. Then again, she had been mimicking her older brother and sister’s katas since she could walk. She will not be a white belt for much longer, I think. Her siblings were practicing in the more advanced group. All the kids had impressive focus and form.

Astou

I admired the technique and discipline of Robbie’s more experienced students, there would be some future leaders and champions here. Robbie would be, is, so proud of them.

I searched the class for Djiby, he was the only one I could not find on the mat. Then a little person stood before me, saying “Sonia”. He was not feeling well, and was sitting out the class, waiting for his older sister and brother. He asked where Robbie was, those two have a special bond. Djiby and I looked at many karate photos together on my phone, and he told me he likes his school, and he held my hand.

Djiby a few years ago when he was a white belt

After class, a reunion with all the kids. During class they had impressively remained focused on their practice and remained undistracted even when they spotted me.

After the kids left the dojo, I had a talk with Sensei Ignéty Bâ about the Maison de la Gare karate program he oversees. Inevitably there are always issues to resolve. And inevitably we always find a way to resolve them. Robbie, Sensei, and I are partners in this important labour of love that Robbie began over ten years ago - bringing karate to talibés of Saint Louis. Hundreds of talibés have passed through these dojo doors,  

developing confidence, learning to believe in themselves. Hundreds more have passed through the gates of the Maison de la Gare centre to enjoy the beginner classes led by Bouaro there. 

Robbie, Bouaro, Sensei Ignéty Bâ and MDG karate kids

I learned that six more talibé karateka has recently succeeded in a passage to higher belts. Gradings here are no mere formality, and many attempt multiple times, after much training before finally advancing. We agreed to hold an advancement ceremony and demonstration at Maison de la Gare Thursday morning to celebrate these remarkable achievements. I look forward to it with anticipation!

a past grading ceremony

As I walked back to the Island along the Senegal River, alone as the African sun set and then disappeared, I reflected upon how privileged  Robbie and I both are to have been so warmly welcomed into this karate community. And how fortunate were are to have the opportunity to play a role in bringing the gift of karate to so many vulnerable children.

This morning, my Dad and I walked through the tranquil morning to the Cathedral. Inside, I let the at once soothing and joyful djembe drums and choral voices wash over me. Here, reflection seemed more easily to lead to a sense of peace, and I allowed my hope for this place and my purpose to renew.