Spring work in the vineyard
That weekend there was to be a camp for young aikidists in the vineyard in Žernosky. But it was much, much more.
When I think back to our time together, it is hard to describe all the insights and experiences. A morning warm-up in a flowering meadow and a family of wild boars across the road. Walking through rolling countryside with views of extinct volcanoes. Working in an endless vineyard row, the grueling heat of the southern hillside and sunburnt skin. Refreshing sips of water and tired jokes as we took a work break. The concentrated clicking of the scissors, the monotony that gradually spilled over into skill and pride that we’d made it. The smell of the fire, the taste of wine not yet ready on the tongue. Evening conversations with the sunset over the bends of the Elbe. A night concert by the river. Training where we practiced how to grasp a wooden pole, a partner’s wrist or life… into our own hands.
To grasp life, to work it with our own hands, to enjoy it. Aikido and physical labor teach us how to do it.
PS: The whole weekend had another dimension. The vineyard where we stayed and helped belongs to Bogdan Trojak and Salome. Their wines can be found in the best restaurants not only in Prague but also in Tokyo and London. And Bogdan’s work to develop natural wines in the Czech Republic is phenomenal. We are really grateful that young people from our club can be in the company of such interesting people, work with them and be inspired by them.
