by Kathy Crane, Sensei

What does it mean to be empowered? To answer that question definitively, I did what many of you might do—I Googled it. What came back was: “the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life and claiming one’s rights.” I believe the key word here is process. So, naturally, I Googled that too and found: “…a series of actions or steps taken in order to achieve a particular end.” This tells us that empowerment is not a moment—it is something cultivated through intention, action and commitment over time.

As a long-time Aikido practitioner, I discovered increased personal strength and confidence, along with the self-awareness needed to make more conscious choices about the direction of my life. These shifts came not from force, but from the steady process of training in this unique and traditional Japanese martial art.

Along the way, I began noticing how others responded to my progress. Often, the changes were subtle—on the street, in everyday interactions—but meaningful. I felt a heightened sense of personal safety. I was more alert and present, more willing to take steps to avoid danger without becoming aggressive or reactive.

In relationships, I noticed something else. People often expressed trust, and sometimes admiration, sharing that they didn’t believe they had the self-discipline or willpower to commit to a process like fitness or public speaking. Based on my training, I can say this: I was not afraid to fail. Learning Aikido, much like life itself, requires us to fall, recover and rise stronger. When others expressed doubt in themselves, I always responded the same way: You have that strength, too.

I don’t try to persuade anyone to walk the path I’ve chosen, though I did choose to teach with passion. When you encounter someone deeply committed to their path, you’ve found a guide—something like a GPS for what you’re seeking. But you still have to stay on the path yourself. While Google defines process as steps taken to reach an end, I see it as steps taken to remain on a path that has no end.

That is the spirit of “do” in Aikido. It is empowerment in motion, carried into every area of life. Begin where you are. Stay the course. The view continues to expand far beyond where you started.

The author, Kathy Crane Sensei, founder of Aikido Agatsu Dojo, holds Nanadan (7th Degree Black Belt), conferred in Japan by Aikido Doshu Moriteru Ueshiba, Hombu Dojo, Tokyo; Mokuroku-certified in Aiki-Ken and Aiki-Jo. To find out more about classes, visit www.AikidoAgatsuDojos.com.