Forty years ago this month, in April 1978, Dr. Larry Lazarus opened the Chapel Hill Dojo. Forty years later, Dr. Lazarus, who obtained the rank of Godan–SKA’s highest–in 2000, continues to lead practices on most Saturdays in his signature style of highly demanding and highly inspiring instruction. This morning, the last Saturday in April of 2018, was no exception. After we finished bowing out from Seiza we honored our senior, celebrated the resilience of our dojo over the decades, and, still drenched in sweat, enjoyed each others’ company over freshly brewed green tea and home-baked blueberry muffins.

Thanks to everyone who came out, practiced, and shared in our friendship time.