the beginning of a life path, and it was made profound by the experiences shared with the people who taught and studied there.  The first thing I noticed about Master Longo is that I could feel him in the room--long before a word was spoken, and regardless of whether or not he was teaching. His techniques and focus were powerful and devastatingly efficient. His teaching was patient, yet relentless. He demonstrated every code of bushido in his manner, without needing to announce it. He showed me how a martial artist could have power without losing humility. He did not seek status or attention. He had honor. He could be quick to laugh, but in class, you learned to be wary of a certain twinkle in his eye, which indicated a painful lesson approaching. His gifts were many, but his loyalty to our system and Shihan stands strongest in my mind. When I left Connecticut in 1992, Master Longo paid me the highest honor in quiet words to the class before we bowed out. I still will feel tears when I remember that moment--he touched my spirit like he touched the spirit of every student who was privileged to work with him--and that touch has never left. Part of his spirit lives in me, and is shared every time I teach a student, or talk about my experiences in Kokondo. How could it not? It may be that not everyone who knew Master Longo had this same experience, but I imagine there are enough who know exactly what I mean. And I love you all, just as I loved Master Longo. Thank you for keeping the heart and spirit connected in this work; thank you for making it a life path as he did.

Jan Dahm