As with last year this time is mixed with success and sadness.

Its been one year since Peter Sherriff, founder of kendo in Ireland and Cork; leader, friend and teacher has passed away.

I was, and still am, greatly affected by his passing. I don’t think I started kendo, as a beginner wanting to learn to fight; I came to UCC kendo club pretty much looking for help (I didn’t see it that way at the time however). I’ll never forget those first few months, when I was physically sick before every single class. I could barely function in a social setting let alone talk to strangers. Peter pulled me out of myself and straightened my posture and mind through the application of the sword. This is real kendo. You are taught kendo, how to cut with a sword, but you learn how to overcome your demons, and how to live, even if it seems hard: espcially when it seems hard. (more…)