Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style

Posted by: hoffyph

Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 03/28/03 12:21 PM

I have been studying Isshin Shorinji Ryu style for 6 years. I cannot find out who the original master or originator of this system is. It is listed in Asian Fighting Arts as a dropped system. Someone brought this system to the USA ????
Posted by: Ronin1966

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 07/15/04 08:29 PM

Evening hoffyph:

Write me off list and I'll be happy to share what little I know/understand. This was a new understanding/expression of the then Okinawan art of Isshinryu karate-do. No asian masters in the evolution of this name/art.

Write back and we'll share.

Jeff
Posted by: Anonymous

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 01/18/05 06:23 PM

In response to inquiry as to the genesis of the ISSHIN-SHORINJI-RYU system of Okinawa-Te I can share from my personal experience. I studied under Soke Robert Murphy here in northern New Jersey from the fall of 1968 until approximately 1980.He was a great instructor who had studied under Shimabuku, Tatsuo and his great mentor Don Nagle. Both men were popular and well sought out leaders in furthering the arts.ISSHIN-SHORINJI-RYU literally translated means " spirit of the little forest temple", referencing Shaolin traditions in their teachings of okinawan styled karate.Most noticeable diffences were the addition of full punch, not just vertical punch, deeper Zenkutsu stances and some really technical black belt forms. Also taught were Aikijitsu techniques and Kendo.Whereas SHORINJI was primarily designed by unarmed peasants to fight "inside the sword", ISSHIN-SHORINJI added many forms for fighting "outside the sword", including many weapons forms.
I have lost contact with Soke Murphy over the last ten years, but, i don't know where else it is being taught now.I estimate that he probably taught several thousand different people at varying levels over the years.

James Stedman
Boonton ,N.J.
Posted by: Neko456

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 05/25/05 12:28 PM

The name seems to combine two verison of Okinawan Te, one Isshin-ryu which is a mixtures of Nahate & Shurite and the other Shorinji-ryu a version of shurite but with more chinese influence, its Chuna-fa or Shorinji-Kempo. Loosely translated as Shaolin fist way.

This sound like a other then Okinawan Japan orgin way, which doesn't mean that its inferior by any means. Look at USA GOJU or Tongs Dojo.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 07/28/05 10:43 AM

I studied Isshin Shorinjiryu under Thomas Heriaud at the Academy of Martial Arts in Plano, Illinois, back in the 1980s, where I earned a ni-kyu. I still train, though it's been at least fifteen years since I've made it back there for instruction. Scott Francis, who still teaches the style at his dojo in Sandwich, Illinois, (http://www.dojodynamics.com) was a fellow student. I believe the Fox Valley South Family YMCA still has Isshin Shorinjiryu classes, and I believe the instructor there is Bob Wallach [sic?], who was a terrific black belt when I was still there as a young student.

Mister Heriaud was one of the late Mister James Chapman's students. I hear Mister Heriaud is mostly retired from teaching, but that he does still serve as chief judge for the Midwest Circuit karate-tournament organization. He was a peerless teacher.

The following are from the handouts we received from Mister Heriaud. I posted them on a previous inquiry about Isshin Shorinjiryu, though I can no longer find that thread. Several people posted comments, some challenging the handout’s accuracy, and I hope they repost them here so we can get and maintain a fuller and more accurate account of the style’s mostly undocumented history.

I did not write the handout and don’t know who did. I did not eyewitness the style’s development, so I’m not vouching for the handout, just passing it along in the hopes that others may vet or debunk it.

Much of the first part of the handout seems to come from a Ginchin Funokoshi book I read in high school, though I can’t remember the title.

The anonymous writer’s obvious agenda is to make Isshin Shorinjiryu appear as if it is the logical culmination of thousands of years of martial arts evolution— the ultimate karate style. It is not— there is no such thing. Styles are only as good as the people who practice them.


Okinawa-Te
ORIGINS AND PURPOSE
Okinawa-Te (Karate) was developed through the assimilation and modification of Chuan-fa (Chinese fist arts) by the Okinawans, and incorporation of these with existing fighting methods previously adapted from various Asian martial arts.

Among the various Chuan-fa styles, the one that had the greatest impact on the development of both Chinese and Okinawan fist technique was Shaolin-szu Gung-fu.

This system is thought to have been based on a series of exercises taught by Bodhi Dharma, the Twenty-eighth Patriarch of Buddhism under Sakyamuni, and founder of the Ch'an Sect, commonly known as Zen Buddhism This system was further expanded and developed by the Warrior Monks of Shaolin Monastary.

The original concepts taught by Bodhi Dharma were contained in two volumes on Indian military arts, the I Chin Ching and Hsein Sui Ching, which he brought with him when he journeyed to China in the sixth century A.D.

These principles combined with the existing "Five Animal Forms" became the Shaolin-szu Gung-fu system. Although other Chuan-fa existed before the Shaolin-szu system, it was this system which became most widely practiced. Its growth, in part, can be paralleled by and attributed to the spread of the Ch'an Sect's teachings.

There were two schools of thought concerning individual combat, the External or Hardfist school, noted for aggressive attack technique, and the Internal sohool, noted for fluid defensive technique, and non-aggressive philosophy. The Shaolin-szu Gung-fu originally was of the former type.

As the art spread, it also changed. Lifestyles, terrain, and other military arts were fused with the original by various masters in their travels. Two distinct styles evolved. The Northern style emphasized the use of leg techniques and the Southern style emphasized the use of hand techniques,

There is no way to determine when the Chuan-fa systems were imparted to Okinawa. The Okinawans were under the cultural influence of China for some four-hundred years before the Japanese invasion in 1609 and paid tribute to the Ming rulers (1368–1644) during which time trade and the exchange of ideas and methods flourished.

What we do know is that in 1429 Lord Syo Hasshi succeeded in uniting the three Kingdorns of Okinawa by force, and that the military arts were highly regarded at that time. It can be assumed that both the Northern and Southern styles reached Okinawa, but it was the Southern style that found favor. This presents the possibility that Chuan-fa may have reached Okinawa during the period of Mongol rule (1260–1368).

During the (Northern) Sung Dynasty the capitol of China was Kai-feng in Ronan province, but with the conquest of Northern China by the Chin Tartars in 1127 the capitol was moved south to Hang Chou in Chekiang province, and so began the Southern Sung Dynasty. 1205 Genghis Khan began his ruthless campaigns which led to the establishment of the Yuan Dynasty (1260–1368) under Kublai Khan, and complete rule over north and south with the overthrow of the Sung accomplished in 1279.

Shaolin-szu Gung-fu, almost from its inception, became associated with political and self-defense societies, and in fact it was political pressure that caused the dispersion of the monks and the eventual decline of the Shaolin Monastary. During the early Yuan period, while the Sung controlled Southern China, the Hanlin-ji monastary, considered by some to be the second Shaolin-szu, where Chuan-fa was practiced, amassed 150,000 warriors and rose against Yuan rule. The rebellion was unsuccessful and the warriors were scattered. It is highly possible that as the Mongols drove south and finally conquered the Southern Sung capitol, which was close to the sea, many Chuan-fa experts sought sanctuary in other lands, one of which was Okinawa. Whatever the case, the facts on the migration of early Chuan-fa will remain vague.

On Okinawa, "Shaolin-szu Chuan-fa" was called by its Japanese equivalent, "Shorinji Kenpo." It is impossible to state exactly when Shorinji Kenpo became Okinawa-Te, but over the years the techniques took on Okinawan characteristics and were completely transformed, retaining little resemblance to the original Chinese forms.

A Te-like form was being practiced during the first demilitarization period (1430–1525). It is believed that this was the original import undergoing its first stage of revision. But it was during the second demilitarization period, beginning with the Japanese invasion by the Satsyna Clan in 1609, that Okinawa-Te emerged as a highly refined fighting art particular to the Okinawans and developed by their efforts.

The need for a highly specialized attack technique arose with tile subjegation of the Okinawan people by the Satsyna Clan Shimoza Satsuma, to guard against rebellion., confiscated everything resembling a weapon and forbade the ownership, manufacture, or import of weapons. Te spread rapidly underground and was taught and practiced secretly. This veil of secrecy accounts for the lack of factual information about its development. Even during this period when Te was in use, the only testimony to its existence was the statistics on the invaders that fell victim to its practitioners.

Originally the art was simply referred to as "Te." Gradually, as the system spread through Okinawa, the name of the town where the master resided and taught was affixed., such as: Shuri-Te, Naha-Te, and Tomari-Te. These particular towns were well known for their Te fighters, and in fact were the cradles of Okinawa-Tel

As other masters began teaching the different groups came to be called "ryus" (style or school) and were usually named after the teachers of the ryu, such as, Kobayashi-ryu, Metobu-ryu, etc. This method identified the practitioner with a particular master.

Contrary to popular belief, Student-masters did rot break away from their Masters to start new systems, but simply began teaching away from the central school as the demand for instruction increased, and normally with the approval, and in many cases at the request of their masters. Names came into use simply as a method of identification, as one would state his city and state rather than just his country when asked where he lives. Although many ryus developed, the differences were few, as the techniques in most cases were simply stylized by the individual masters. Where new technique did exist, it was soon assimulated by the various ryus.

Very little factual information is available on the early Te masters or methods. As stated previously, the Okinawans adapted the External or Hardfist method of Shaolin-szu Chuan-fa as the most practical for their needs, and this gave birth to Okinawa-Te. Later in its development it split into two approaches to the application of technique. There was little emphasis on this until masters

Anhou Itosu and Kanruo Higaonna developed them into two distinct schools of thought. Their schools came to be known as Shorin and Shorei.

Both of these masters were students of Warrior-Master Sokan Matsumura.

Matsumura is now considered to be the patriarch of Okinawa-Te, and is probably the man most responsible for the organization of the various techniques under a single ryu

It is with Sokan Matsumura that the factual history of Okinawa Te begins. Matsumura was noted to be a Samurai of exceptional skill in all military arts, and especially in the fist arts. He was retained by Sakugawa of Shari during the late 18th century. His position and reputation afforded him opportunities to study with many of the Te masters as well as the Chinese masters residing in Okinawa. Because of this we may assume that his knowledge of the existing methods was broader than others of his day. Due to his knowledge and skill, many practitioners sought his instruction. Two of these were to become more famous than their master. They were Itosu and Higaonna .

They went on to spread the teachings of their master, although their methods differed from his as well as from one another's. The differences probably came about naturally due to differences in physique and structure. Regardless, it was with these man that systemized training and style began.

The teachings of Master Itosu evolved into the Shorin school. Its students trained for speed and agility. The preference was toward flexible defenses, evasion, subtle changes in position, and long-range attacks using rapid combinations of technique. Their technique was based on the theory of the katas Naiuhanchi, Ku San Ku and Chinto.

The teachings of Master Higaonna evolved into the Shorei school. Its students trained for great muscular strength, and preferred direct blocks, little change in position, and strong crushing attacks launched at close range, usually holding on to their adversaries. Their technique was based on the theory of the katas Sanchin and Seiuchin.

Though the Shorei school in its pure form was short-lived due to its lack of flexibility, both masters developed many excellent students who went on to expand, refine, and spread the teachings. Some studied both schools; others journeyed to China to continue their research under well known masters of Chuan-fa.

From the Itosu school came Choku Motobu, who taught a variation which came to be known as Motoburyu Naha-Te. The he Itosu school also produced Chojun Miyagi, who combined principles of the Internal Chuan-fa system, which he studied in Fukien province during a two year stay in China, with the Shorei methods to found the Goju system. Goju eventually replaced the original Shorei. This school was the first to introduce a marriage of Hard and Soft, based on the Theory of Sanchin and Tensho katas. Master Miyagi is generally credited with the creation of both katas, but it is likely that he created only the Tensho, after a sojourn to China, based on a variation of the Sil Lum Praying Mantis Chuan-fa method, and revised the Sanchin kata. With the exception of Miyagi, these masters gained fame through the introduction of their ryus to Japan.

During this time there were masters of equal or greater skill on Okinawa whose fame cannot be credited to Japanase influence, but who deserve rocognition if one is to understand the growth of Karate.

We do not know who first referred to "Okinawa-Te" as "Karate." It was with the introduction of the art to Japan that the name took hold. The art was first introduced to Japan in 1917 by Master Funakoshi, who came art the request of the Japanese government. After a demonstration of the art he returned to Okinawa only to come back in 1921, at which time he took up residence and began teaching in Waseda University. Shortly thereafter Masters Miyagi, Maburi and Motobu introduced their styles.

Although Karate was demonstrated in Los Angeles California by Norimichi Yabe in 1920, it was not until the early 1950s that formal instruction was given in the U.S. Credit for this must be given to Master Tsutomu Oshima, a student of Master Funakoshi. Through his efforts the Shotokan Karate system established a firm base in America.

Overseas, the ban on martial arts training imposed by General Douglas McArthur was lifted, exposing U.S. servicemen to the training. In the late 1950s and early 1960s many returned and opened small training halls across the country.

In 1963 and again in 1965 Okinawan Grand Master Shimabuku Tatsuo visited the U.S. to give instructions to his followers.

Master Shimabuku began his study under his uncle, a well known master of Shuri-Te, and spent the rest of his life in the study and teachings of Okinawa-Te. For twenty-six years he studied various styles. From his uncle's tutelage he went on to study Kobayashiryu under Master Chotuku Kiyan and Naha-Te under Choku Motobu. He then turned to Goju system and Master Chojun Miyagi. In both the Shorin and Goju systems Master Shimabuku was awarded 8th Dan for his outstanding skill and knowledge.

During World War II Shimabuku Tatsuo’s reputation as a master of Okinawa-Te caused the Japanese occupation forces to take him into custody and force him to teach. It was during this period that he formulated the methods which later came to be known as Isshinryu.

He decided to combine certain aspects of the various systems which he found most practical for his own use, and discarded those which were not suited to his physical structure and concepts of combat. He chose certain forms of the Goju system, but the basis in both form and performance is the Kobayashi Shorin system. He also incorporated the most advanced Bojutsu systems, which he studied under Masters Hirara Shinken and Yabe Kumoden. The outstanding features of his system were the exclusive use of the short vertical fist punch and the rapid delivery of technique in combination.

In 1957 Master Don Nagle, a student of Master Shimabuku, began teaching Isshinryu Karate in the U.S. Of his original students, four of his most promising went on to spread the system in the East and Midwest: James Chapman, Ryzard Neimeira, Robert Murphy and Gary Alexander.

Master Murphy began his study of the martial arts, with JuJutsu and Judu, as a member of the U.S. Marine Corps in 1954. His interest in the martial arts led him to seek a greater understanding of the underlying principles and philosophies through the study of various arts and systems: Tang Soo Do, Hung Shaolin Gung-fu, Baa Hak Pai Chuan-fa, Shorinjiryu, Aikijutsu, and several Robujutsu systems. In 1965 he was awarded Fourth Dan, and in 1967 Fifth Dan by Master Nagle. In 1969 Master Shimabuku awarded him master’s certification in Isshinryu Karate and Kobujutsu arts. In 1962 he resigned as Director of the Isshando Karate Association to open his own training halls, the Academies of Martial Arts in North Bergen, Weehawken, and Hoboken, N.J.

Master Murphy became Headmaster of the International Institute of Judo and Karate in 1965 and held that post until 1970. He also joined the faculty of the College of Saint Elizabeth and Fairieigh Dickinson University and established two of the largest karate groups in the U.S. In these and in Middlesex County College, Karate has become an accredited course of study. Since Master Murphy organized Karate International in 1965, institutions throughout the state have recognized the value of martial arts training and have accepted programs under his supervision. At St. Joseph's High School in Metuchen, N.J., for the first time in the U.S., varsity and junior varsity letters were presented to students participation in Karate training. The coaches' and outstanding Athlete Awards were also given to members of the club.

Karate International Incorporated was organized for the purpose of training professional instructors, standardizing training and sport competition methods, and expanding teaching capabilities to encompass all Asian studies and to accommodate educational, recreational, and business establishments, thereby benefiting all levels of society.

Master Murphy established his main training hall in Parsippany, New Jersey in 1970, the largest facility of its kind on the East coast, and entirely designed and built by his students.

In 1968, based on the evaluation of his various studies, Master Murphy founded the system of Isshin-Shorinjiryu Okinawa-Te. This is a discipline based on the consolidation of various bodies of knowledge about the Asian arts, and is recognized as one of the more fully developed methods of teaching, allowing a student to fully assimilate the broadened scope of knowledge and techniques of various styles.

After the formulation of the Isshin-Shorinji system, Masters James Chapman and Ralph Cherico of the Isshinryu system found Master Murphy's concepts of training and philosophy to be more in keeping with the true goals of the ancient masters and joined with him and Master Leo Weber in spreading those concepts.

Master Chapman was a close friend and associate of Master Murphy from early training days. He also assisted in the formation of the Academies of Martial Arts and the Society of Black Belts of America. Master Chapman opened an Academy branch in Aurora, Illinois in 1963 and sponsored both the Illinois State Championships and the Tri-State Tournament. Master Chapman lost his life in an auto accident in the spring of 1971, a blow to the Karate world.

In 1965 Masters Cherico and Murphy met while training with Master Shimabuku. In 1957 Master Cherico, well known for his tournament participation and fair judging, converted to Isshin-Shorinji, and became a staff instructor of Karate International in 1970 and Regional Supervisor in 1971.

Master Weber was a student of JuJutsu until he met Master Murphy in 1961. From that day on an unwavering friendship developed. Credit for the realization of many of the hopes of Master Murphy can be given to him, as he laid the foundation for the development of Karate International Incorporated, and became its first Vice President.

In 1971, Isshin Shorinjiryu Okinawa-Te was incorporated as a fraternal order guided by a board of trustees and elected officers from the membership, whose purpose is to guide the system according to its philosophy: Harmony of Principle, Integrity in Purpose, and Mutual Benefit.

Master Murphy feels that in a time of turmoil and uncertainty, people need a deeper understanding of themselves. He hopes Isshin-Shorinjiryu will give direction to that quest. It is easily seen that Karate was more than a were method of defending one's self. It is a demonstration of life as it could be and life as it should be, harmonizing elements of violent struggle with simple beauty and peace.

Karate is a scale of individual achievement, a very personal art which offers a great deal for those who have the foresight to seek it out.

Isshin Shorinji Ryu
Okanawa Te
Belt Requirements

Yellow Belt (Seventh Kyu/Sichi Kyu)
kata kiai
eight-point soft block n/a
fourteen-point hard block n/a
Taikyoku Ichi Third punch, second set of three punches
Taikyoku Ni Third punch, second set of three punches
Taikyoku San Third punch, second set of three punches

Yellow Belt (Sixth Kyu/Roku Kyu)
kata kiai
Taikyoku Shi Last punch in punch-push-punch set
Taikyoku Go Grab and punch after elbow strike

Green Belt (Fifth Kyu/Go Kyu)
kata kiai
Pinan Ichi Last lunge punch; Last knife hand
Pinan Ni Spear hand; Last high block and punch
Pinan San Spear hand; Last backfist

Purple Belt (Fourth Kyu/Yan Kyu)
kata kiai
Pinan Shi Backfist; Knee strike
Pinan Go High cross block and punch; Leap into hook stance

Brown Belt (Third Kyu/San Kyu)
kata kiai
Sanchin-Dai Last single punch after second turn
Sanseru Last pickup technique

Brown Belt (Second Kyu/Ni Kyu)
kata kiai
Seisan First backfist from cat stance;
Before executing front kick from cat
Seiunchin Vertical punch; First backfist
Second uppercut; Last backfist
Nijushio First elbow; Punch to prone opponent
Under punch; Last U-punch

Brown Belt (First Kyu/I Kyu)
kata kiai
Naiuhanchi Ichi Last block and punch
Naiuhanchi Ni First release or throw
Naiuhanchi San Last backfist
Jute Third palm heel; Last cross block and side block
Last eye and throat strike

Black Belt (First Dan/Shodan)
kata kiai
Wansu Fake punch; First punch set; Elbow strike
Shiho-Hi Second punch to prone opponent
First fake punch
Second hammer block and side kick

********************************************************************************

When I came to SIU in Carbondale I met a black belt named Scott Vogt who trained under one of Mister Murphy's students, and Scott gave me the following, which I've subsequently found online (though I can't remember or find the URL). I have edited out allegations about Mister Murphy that I cannot verify. The edits are marked by elipses (...):

OKINAWA TE
An Historical Overview
Mr. Woodrow Jensen was trained by Sensei Robert Murphy in Parsippany, New Jersey. The rank of second-degree black belt was conferred by Sensei Murphy i n August of 1971. Third-degree rank was conferred by Douglas Hodges of Karate Institute in September of 1976. The last promotion was more of a generic promotion in karate, rather than for a specific karate system.

Further promotion by Sensei Murphy was not possible due to a series of events which occurred within the system of Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa Te over a period of about six years starting in 1972. To put these events in perspective, this historical overview will follow the instructional careers of both Sensei Robert Murphy and Woodrow Jensen.

Master Robert Murphy was awarded the rank of 5th degree black belt in Isshin Ryu by Master Don Nagle (8th degree) and Master Tatsuo Shimabuku (10th degree) Sensei Murphy and Master James Chapman (5th degree Isshin Ryu) of Chicago, Illinois, formed and developed the style of Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa Te in 1968. This style added to the Isshin Ryu materials, techniques, and strategies borrowed from a variety of other martial art systems to include: Jujutsu, Judo, Tang Soo Do, Hung Shaolin Gung-fu, Baa Hak Pai Chuan-fa Shorinjiryu, Aikijutsu, and Kobujutsu arts.

Karate basic technique performance closely follows the style of technique execution as illustrated by the work of Nishiyama and Brown in the book, Karate: The Art of Empty Hand Fighting .

Isshin Shorinji Ryu prospered in the period of 1969–71. It had an enrollment of about 210-plus active Karateka and 25–30 black belts....

The main dojo was closed in Parsippany, New Jersey.... For the next few years, up until about 1978, there were various school locations with none really succeeding financially. As of 1980 there was no active school or system.

In 1973, Mr. Jensen moved from New Jersey to attend graduate school at the University of Wyoming. A karate club named Okinawa Te was started in January 1974. An attempt was made to reestablish ties with Sensei Murphy and the Isshin Shorinji Ryu system.... The ties with Isshin Shorinji were dissolved as a result of this situation.

Mr. Jensen took the old Isshin Shorinji Ryu grade requirements and modified them slightly. This became the basis for Okinawa Te as it was taught at the University of Wyoming from 1973–78 During the years 1977–78, a partnership between Mr. Jensen and Douglas D. Hodges was initiated. It was an attempt to strengthen Okinawa Te by establishing ties with the national organization of Karate Institute and to draw upon Sensei Hodges's kill and expertise in Judo, combat strategy, and competitive karate. In pursuing their separate professional careers, only partial success was achieved in development of Okinawa Te. Career opportunities resulted in the separation of these two individuals.

Mr. Jensen has published the following articles: "How to Start a Karate Club on Campus," Black Belt, April 1977; "What to Expect If You Take a Karate Course In College, " Black Belt, April 1977; " Retention of New Students a Formula for a Beginner's Program," Karate Illustrated, July 1977; and "The Hard Way, How to Judge Kata," Karate Illustrated, February 1978.

As part of the masters degree requirements in physical education at the University of Wyoming, a thesis was completed entitled: Curriculum Content for Introductory Karate Courses in Physical Education at Selected Four-Year Colleges and Universities in the United States.

In January of 1979 Mr. Jensen left the University of Wyoming for employment in Rapid City, South Dakota. Administration and instruction of the Okinawa Te Karate Club was turned over the Mr. Rod Lindgren. The current instructor is Mr. Joseph Hageman. Mr. Hageman started in Mr. Jensen's original beginners' class of 1974. He became the Okinawa Te instructor in the Fall of 1979 and has done an excellent job of both programming and expanding enrollment. Mr. Jensen currently serves the Okinawa Te Karate Club in an advisory capacity and as an aid in grade certification.

Woodrow Jensen’s Okinawa Te Belt Requirements
Kyus
Pinan I-V
Naiuhanchi I-III
Seisan
Sanchin
Seiunchin
Shiho-Hi

Dans
Wansu
Kusanku-Dai
Gankaku-Dai
Bo
Jo

********************************************************************************

I hope this helps! Please let me know if you need more information; if I have it, I'll pass it along.
Posted by: SANCHIN31

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 07/28/05 12:12 PM

*jumps in a time and goes back two years to ask the original poster*
Posted by: Rod_Lindgren

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/13/05 02:45 AM

My wife stumbled onto this thread by doing a search on my name. I thought I should contribute.

I am Rod Lindgren and used to teach the Isshin Shorinji Ryu class at the University of Wyoming.

For more information on that school and its history, you can visit my website, http://www.geocities.com/rodtsd/Okinawa-te_Search.html

I have been looking for people teaching this system for years and for many reasons. I would appreciate hearing from anyone still practicing.

Rod Lindgren
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/17/05 01:38 AM

Thank you, Sensei Lindgren, for posting to the FightingArts thread. I let the few other current and former Isshin Shorinjiryu students and teachers with whom I am still in contact know about your post and website— hopefully they’ll contact you directly or post here.

I have many questions about the style, its origins, and evolution... but it’s a little late right now to think about that. Sometime soon! Meanwhile, I’m glad to know you found this thread and would love to hear about your many reasons for searching out other Isshin Shorinjiryu practitioners!
Posted by: Rod_Lindgren

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/17/05 09:48 PM

Thanks for writing, Chris. I have heard from some of the people you mentioned and will write to them yet tonight.

To answer your question about why I am looking for other Isshin Shorinjiryu practitioners, I have to say a little bit about the history of the University of Wyoming Club under Sensei Woody Jensen.

First of all, Sensei Jensen was a great technician. The club was offered through the University's non-credit Adult Education program. In the brochure, Sensei described his class as "a nuts-and-bolts approach".

While Woody was teaching and living in Wyoming, Master Murphy was changing the style. It was always evolving. Sensei Jensen was not able to catch all the changes, so I imagine the styles have drifted apart.

I felt that Sensei Jensen's teaching was very valuable. Realizing that it probably was not precisely what Master Murphy was teaching, I felt I had reached the end of the road as far as progressng further in the style. I thought that Sensei Jensen's black belts might feel the same way.

The logical step out of the end of the line was for us to form an organization with the purpose of continuing to grow in the style Woody taught.

This never came to fruition.

I have studied other styles, but I am never quite completely satisfied. Woody's understanding and teaching of the small detail has been hard to match. I have a good relationship with the martial artist in my area, but I have not been able to establish a regular work out schedule.

One of the schools in my area (near Lake Tahoe on the Nevada side) is taught by an excellent Ishhin Ryu teacher, Diane Ortenzio. She is the wife of the Master Toby Cooling, who studied Isshin Ryu with Master Murphy.

I am a videographer and would really love to find the best examples of our art and record it on DVD. I have several hours of VHS tape from our old class, including a DVD made from an original 8mm film documentary produced by Mike Donnell when I was an first kyu brown belt. Mike was a student of Sensei Jensen and one of my closest friends. This video was a cinematography class project.

I would enjoy meeting and corresponding with other students of this art and see where the path leads.

Thank you for your time and attention.

Rod Lindgren

P.S. Please check the article at http://outside.away.com/outside/features/200301/200301_hardway_1.html for an interesting insight into Sensei Woody Jensen.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/18/05 02:03 AM

Sensei Lindgren:

I received a VCD of an Isshin Shorinjiryu stylist who came from the Woodrow Jensen branch of the style. I only have had time to take a cursory glance at it thus far. I was fascinated by how some of the forms were so strikingly different from what Sensei Vogt taught me, and even further removed from what I learned from Sensei Heriaud. A few of the kata looked like unadulterated Isshinryu forms.

Isshin Shorinjiryu obviously and quickly decentralized, whether or not that was the intent.

I was pretty surprised by this— variation in kata in feudal Japan and Okinawa was easy to predict, because of the lack of video, the need to maintain secrecy due to the demilitarization edicts and the resulting lack of written records, and lack of motorized transportation. No video, no books, a student moves about twenty miles away— coupled with human imperfection, suddenly huge variations emerge in a kata.

As I wrote above in the Fighting Arts thread, since coming to Carbondale in 1987, I’ve had little opportunity to return and work out with Sensei Heriaud— Carbondale is about six hours away from Aurora, Yorkville, and Sandwich, which is basically where Mister Heriaud and his students taught Isshin Shorinjiryu. I used to work out when I visited my parents, but they moved to downtown Chicago after about 1990, and I have not been back since.

Carbondale has some wonderful martial-arts instructors. When I first came here to attend SIU, I worked out with several— moo duk kwon tae kwon do, aikido, boxing, and a very little muai Thai. I think it helped me to become more well-rounded— aikido and boxing in particular took the footwork I had already been taught and made me think about and apply it in new ways. The moo duk kwon and aikido instructor, Guido Bernstein, is a spectacular martial artist and teacher. A Bill Wallace fan, he improved my kicking a great deal, especially my kicking combinations. We even attended a Bill Wallace seminar, which was a huge eye-opener.

But it wasn’t the same. I never developed an enchantment with what was available in Carbondale. This is more a reflection on my limitations than on the instructors in Carbondale. My heart was simply in Isshin Shorinjiryu. My reason for taking the other styles was simply to keep sharp for Sensei Heriaud’s classes— I was interested in learning the moo duk kwon forms, I guess, but not committed to them, and I think that attitude hurt my enthusiasm for the rest of the curriculum.

Similar to your description of Sensei Jensen, Sensei Heriaud stressed getting the tiniest details perfect. The differences between, say, Isshin Shorinjiryu and moo duk kwon were hard for me to keep distinct— the back stances in moo duk kwon and Isshin Shorinjiryu were different, for example, and I wound up in back stances that were neither fish nor fowl, just half-assed, and I knew it.

At some point, I just began working out on my own. I bought a punching bag and try to keep enough open space in my house or on my patio to practice kata.

Since the advent of the internet, I’ve performed sporadic searches for Isshin Shorinjiryu and Mister Heriaud, but found extremely few hits, none substantive. I think it was in summer 2003 that I finally came across Sensei Carr’s page, and we corresponded a bit. Sensei Carr put me back in touch with Sensei Scott Francis, with whom I’ve traded more than a few emails.

I finally found a hit on the FightingArts site and posted the handouts I received from Senseis Heriaud and Vogt (above). The history page on your site contains much of the same material as the handout from Sensei Heriaud. Large portions of it look verbatim, in fact, so I wonder whether it originated with either Sensei Murphy or one of his senior students.

Though several posts are now inexplicably gone, including mine, the FightingArts thread where I originally posted is actually here:
http://www.fightingarts.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/137412/page/0/fpart/all/vc/1

After a recent Carbondale martial-arts tournament, I felt inspired to learn the rest of the Isshin Shorinjiryu kata, and someone was kind enough to send a DVD and VCD to guide me.

In addition, Sensei Heriaud required black-belt candidates to complete a research paper. Ever since 1987 or so, I’ve been kicking around topics, but I’ve never settled on one, though some ideas are now starting to take shape. Maybe this will help me focus a little; maybe someone will suggest a topic that resonates with me.

So that’s where I am right now, and that’s probably far more than anyone wants to know.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/18/05 10:03 AM

A few months ago I downloaded text from the other Isshin Shorinjiryu thread mentioned in the previous post— entries that now are deleted, I think due to some restructuring of the FightingArts website. I'll repost them here verbatim; if the authors wanted them deleted or wish to edit them, please let me know right away and I'll immediately remove or change them.

I did not, unfortunately, get the author of the first one, which refers to the history I posted above:

“the history on development of toudi, in detail the shorei and shorin lineages and their specific history has a lot of errors.

“Higaonna was never a student of Matsumura, he studied with Seisho Aragaki, Kojo and Wai xin xiang, RyuRyu Ko possibly Iwah and Ason in China. Miyagi was never a student of Itosu, only of Higaonna and Seisho Aragaki (I think you mixed him up with Mabuni, who was a student of both Itosu and Higaonna).

“The shorei tradition did not die out but lives in styles like Goju ryu/Uechi ryu/Ruyei ryu.

“The mariage of hard and soft is inherent to all karate, not just Goju or Shorei.

“The renaming of Toudi to Karate was decided in Okinawa in 1936 at the meeting of the masters on request of the Japanese.”

The second post was authored by James Stedman:

“In response to inquiry as to the genesis of the ISSHIN-SHORINJI-RYU system of Okinawa-Te I can share from my personal experience. I studied under Soke Robert Murphy here in northern New Jersey from the fall of 1968 until approximately 1980.He was a great instructor who had studied under Shimabuku, Tatsuo and his great mentor Don Nagle. Both men were popular and well sought out leaders in furthering the arts.ISSHIN-SHORINJI-RYU literally translated means ‘ spirit of the little forest temple’, referencing Shaolin traditions in their teachings of okinawan styled karate.Most noticeable diffences were the addition of full punch, not just vertical punch, deeper Zenkutsu stances and some really technical black belt forms. Also taught were Aikijitsu techniques and Kendo.Whereas SHORINJI was primarily designed by unarmed peasants to fight ‘inside the sword’, ISSHIN-SHORINJI added many forms for fighting ‘outside the sword’, including many weapons forms.

“I have lost contact with Soke Murphy over the last ten years, but, i don't know where else it is being taught now.I estimate that he probably taught several thousand different people at varying levels over the years.”
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/18/05 10:05 AM

Sensei Lindgren:

Incidentally, following the material I received from Seinsi Vogt, I emailed Dan Hausel a few weeks ago at the University of Wyoming, who is the instructor at the Shorin-ryu Karate and Kobudo Club; he had no leads for you, Sensei Jensen, or Sensei Hageman. Looks like a neat instance of serendipity that you would find the FightingArts thread.
Posted by: Ronin1966

Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 09/01/05 08:49 AM

Good Morning Mr. Wissmann:

I'm glad that you reposted the thread again, (puzzled/confused by the thread choice of location...) as I was having a bear of a time finding the file which I had placed the thread information in.... however.

Forgive me if this is previously "covered ground" as they say, (but -our need- compels me) essentially I need to locate a head-shot photograph of Mr. Murphy (Robert Murphy), we are updating our materials and wish to acknowledge his influence & his instruction in the "lineage" chart and materials.

Hence my request (re-request?), is there any way you could ask around, (assuming that you do not possess any of course)... we wish to acknowledge the man... and many, both now and in the future will wish to explore further (the who, what, etc.) I am confidant... in order to do so, a photograph of him is mandatory... as it stands his photograph is one of a very small list of "missing items" and diminishes his influence in some respects by that absence....

Could you assist us? Perhaps one of your associates, your instructors... somebody?

Sincerely,
Jeff Balbirnie
Posted by: hoffyph

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 10/01/05 07:11 PM

Chris, My sensi is Master Ralph Chirico. His dojo is located in Carteret N.J. He has taken over the Isshin Shoren Ji Ryu System. He was a student of Mr. Nagle and learned the Isshin Shorin Ji system under Mr. Murphy. We still practice the requirements and Katas as were taught to my instructor by Mr. Murphy.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 10/06/05 12:14 AM

It's great to hear from you— thanks so much for getting this discussion going back in 2003, and for returning to it! And thank you for providing the correct spelling of Mister Chirico's name.

Which kata does Mister Chirico teach? (As you can tell, differences evolved between what Mister Heriaud and Mister Jensen taught; I'm curious to know where Mister Chirico, and presumably Mister Murphy, took the style.)

Are you or Mister Chirico still in touch with Mister Murphy? Does he still teach? I've searched the web pretty extensively, and have found little of substance about him.

Does Mister Chirico or his dojo have a website, and if so, what is the URL?

Finally, I hope you or someone at your dojo will contact Rod Lindgren directly and contribute to his video project. It looks like an extremely promising endeavor.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 10/14/05 08:26 PM

Jeff, I was searching the web and found your posting. Are you looking for Soke Robert Murphy founder of Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te? The same Robert Murphy who was in NJ? He is my teacher (or at least was until I moved and he moved out of NJ)..... If so, let me know as I could contact him for you.

Carl Wighardt
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 10/15/05 07:00 PM

Carl:

As I stated in an earlier post, Mister Heriaud required a research paper as part of our black-belt test, and I would love to interview Soke Murphy for that paper. I would be extremely grateful if you could put me in touch with him. If you need my number, or want to tell me anything you don't wish to post online, please email me at <cdalerocks@yahoo.com>.
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 10/21/05 12:04 PM

Jeff,
I was an upprentice under Sensei Murphy as was Karl. I spent a long time studying with him and it makes me real happy to see some people trying to acknowledge him. Karl and I would sometimes start training at 7am and not go home till midnight. Sensei is a great person and teacher, so thank you for your efforts. Sensei is currently in Georgia, I spoke to him over a year ago but since have not been able to get in contact with him. I went to HS with his daughter which I have an email address for. I will contact her and try to get his number to let him know of your search.
Sensei has changed many of his ideas from the days of teaching in Dojos which hopefully you will appreciate. Again, thank you for acknowledging him. I will let you know what I find.
Posted by: Ronin1966

Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 11/01/05 01:31 PM

Good Morning Chris12:

I look forward eagerly to any help yourself or others in the martial community can be in this effort? We are doing lineage research and would sorely like some very particular bits of information, but anything of substance would be helpful and very much appreciated!!!

Precisely we are seeking head shot photography of Mr. Murphy, as well as several pieces of background information, dates, time-in, rankings and so forth.

Anyone who is willing to help this endeaver would be most appreciated. Please feel free to contact me offline Windwarrior@Msn.Com though I will check the forum as often as possible, however offline would be the most efficent method.

Most Gratefully,
Jeff
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 11/04/05 02:38 PM

Jeff:

Pretty much everything I know about Soke Robert Murphy is on this site, or on the links to other sites posted on this thread. I'm not sure where he is or how to contact him.

I actually don't even know what Soke Murphy looks like and don't know if I've ever seen a photo of him. I know I don't have a photo.

Here are the websites of two Isshin Shorinjiryu schools:

http://www.chiricos.com

http://www.dojodynamics.com

I'd ask the senseis at those dojos if they have a photo or if they know someone who might. The first is for the dojo of Ralph Chirico, whom I believe is a cofounder of the style, or at least one of its most significant early converts— I suspect that if anyone has a photo of Soke Murphy, it would be him.

Good luck! If you do find a picture, I hope you'll post it to this site and maybe even send me a high-res copy!
Posted by: Ronin1966

Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 11/04/05 05:38 PM

Hello Chris:

I tried both websites. The first link as far as I can determine http://www.chiricos.com is as dead as they get.

The second link literally has nothing to it except a phone number and a promise of a $5 CD if I wanted their CD from their last picnic... but literally not a blessed thing beyond that I could open/locate. Any chance I missed/misunderstood something?

We would love a website that contains a clean, edited written presentation of the art... if one exists??? Far as I can tell, it does not... Anybody know of an active link or website re: this specific art, its evolution, its teachers????

If I actually find anything along those lines I will gladly share them. May need some help to post them, but I will share anything I can find...

Please help, anybody...
Jeff
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 11/07/05 07:21 PM

Jeff & Chris:

Sorry for late reply, still trying to find Soke Murphy along with Chris12 (kind of fun getting back in touch with old students we used to work with, but so far no luck…. When he doesn’t want to be found, he won’t be found…. Stems from that Marine military training of his). We both want Soke to get his due respects in the style he founded. You might find a picture of Soke along with Don Nagle as Don had Soke spar at every dojo they went to visit. Soke is about 6’ tall with a strong build….. I hope to get the information to you soon. In the meantime I will try and get other information regarding timeframes and rankings.

Carl
Posted by: Ronin1966

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 11/17/05 11:24 AM

Hello Wiggy:

The source of the gentleman's ~invisability~ is not nearly as helpful as the legacy he did in fact leave regardless. Consequently, you, the other Chris and many others are all seeking such answers....

Again, for the cyber-record, I am actively searching for a "head shot" photograph of Mr. Murphy for ~lineage~ acknowledgement purposes. Anyone who has same, please contact me on/off list as quickly as possible. Time is crucial to our efforts....

Further we are also seeking written materials which explain the curricilium, certain time frames certain rankings which Mr. Murphy possessed. The ideas, the ~slight seperation~ which distinguishes Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinwaw Te from its martial "uncle"/grandparent/father... that being the art called Isshinryu. Granted it is an hypothesis, but whatever we can find re: ISJR-OT (Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te) the art itself or the man (ie Murphy) will be very helpful and much appreciated.

Please help...
Sincerely,

J
Posted by: Sensei_Kurtz

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 11/21/05 10:04 PM

Hello all! Allow me to introduce myself. My name is David Kurtz and I am a student of Sensei Scott Francis, who was a student of Tom Heriud. I Originally started under Sensei Goddard, another of Tom Heriuds and eventually trained under Mr. Heriud himself. I quit for 17 years...yep...17 years before returning (in 1998)! My, then 8 year old son, was interested in doing some martial arts and so we went to Sensei Scott Francis. I re-found the love of the arts and my son became an avid martial artist as well. I earned the rank of Sho-Dan in May of 2004 and now I am teaching at Sensei Scott Francis' Dojo (Dojo Dynamics) along side Sensei Francis.

I apologize for the web site as we are still working towards getting that up and running with more useful information. That should be complete within a month or two.

For those that do not realize, Sensei Tom Heriud has been recognized by his peers in the Chicago area as a Master in the Martial Arts and in fact was given the titles by several systems within this area just this past summer during some Black Belt promotions at our Dojo. We recognize him as our Master. In my case….having earned my Sho-Dan…this makes Master Heriud my “Grandfather” in our system.

For anyone interested in the history, you might wish to contact Sensei Scott Francis at our Dojo at 815-786-9296 and if interested, we have photos of Murphy and Chapman on our Dojo wall.

I am very interested in this thread and really enjoy the history. One thing that might interest some is that it is our understanding that the kata, Taikyoku Go Grab and punch after elbow strike, was created by James Chapman.

I will try to keep up with this forum and ask that if anyone wishes to contact me, please do so via email at dartz@comcast.net.

Thank you
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 11/26/05 12:48 AM

Quickly:

Ralph Chirico's website is back up:
http://www.chiricos.com

Sensei Kurtz:
Did Mister Goddard teach at the Fox Valley South Family YMCA when it was still in that old school in Plano? If I recall, Mister Heriaud taught at the Aurora YMCA, and one of his students taught the karate classes at the Fox Valley South Family Y. When that instructor retired, Mister Heriaud started teaching in Plano, too. Was that person Sensei Goddard? What was his first name?

Scott Francis is fantastic. I think he earned his yellow belt about the time I earned my brown belt (sankyu). I went away to college for a year, and when I came back for the summer, if Sensei Francis didn't outrank me, he was already far better than me. He improved at an astronomical rate, and the success he and his dojo have enjoyed is really well-deserved.

You are correct: James Chapman created Taikyoku Go. A few other styles have five Taikyoku kata, but none come close to resembling Mister Chapman’s. I'm fairly certain that it's not only unique to Isshin Shorinjiryu, but unique to Mister Chapman's branch of the style. A friend of mine who earned a black belt under Woodrow Jensen (or one of Mister Jensen's students), for example, was not taught it. I remember that Mister Heriaud used to tell his classes that the kata was originally an advanced form, but after Mister Chapman’s death in a car accident, Mister Chapman’s students decided to introduce it earlier so that more people would receive exposure to Mister Chapman’s creation. Mister Heriaud maintained an extremely serious dedication to Taikyokyu Go, and it was a primary focus of his curriculum.

All:
As I wrote above, Mister Heriaud used to require his black-belt candidates to complete a thesis. By Christmas, I'd like to start on mine by interviewing as many of Isshin Shorinjiryu's founders or early practitioners as I can convince to participate. Please let me know on this board if anyone has questions they'd like me to ask.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 11/27/05 04:41 PM

To all,

I came across old notes and found the following (I hope it is useful to all):

People Soke Murphy has been influenced by:
(Jujutsu) Frederick Kloth, Paul Cerniglia, Richard Barbato, Russel Prandi. (Judo) Kazuda. (Yoshin Jutsu) Yanasuda K. (Isshinryu) Shimabuku Tatsuo, Don Nagle, James Chapman, Ruzard Neimeira, Donald Bohan. (Aikido) K. Watanabe, Richard Bowe, William Clarek, Rocco Signorelli. (Goju) Peter Urban, Richard Waller. (Shotokan) Oshima Tsutomu, Carol Welsh, Andrew Linick, William Hall. (Kenjutsu) James Talbot. (Omoriryu) Kan Shihan, Ronald Landis. (Tai Chi Chuan) Lee M., Gilbert Shaffner, Arnold Ho, G. Yeung, Peter Chan, Tsung Hwa Jon. (Gung Fu) William Chung. (Pai Lum) H. Han, Roland Arn. (Bolo) Santi Madieria. (Bak Hok Pai) Paul Whang. (Moo Duk Kwan Tang Soo Do) Frank Heitman……. Other styles Soke became influenced by from the above (some of the teachers above specialized in more than one style) include Okinawan GoJU, Shurite, Motobu Ha Kumite, Kobujutsu, Wajutsu, Isshin Jujutsu, Shorinji Kempo, Shoto Kai, Eishinryu, Eishinryu laido, Chi Kung….

History:
1949 Soke Murphy started his study of the arts with Jui Jitsu.
1951 Soke begins boxing
1952 Soke begins Judo
1954 Soke joins the Marine Corp and teaches Judo
1958 Soke sponsors the first Issinryu school in the northeast. He begins practice under Master Don Nagle (along with James Chapman, Ruzard Neumeira, and Gary Alexander).
1960 Soke wins the all Japan Goju and Isshinryu intra system tournament series
1961 Soke wins first Tri State Karate Tournament
1964 Soke gives demonstration of Okinawan & Japanese Martial Arts at the Worlds Fair
1964 Soke founds “The Society of Black Belts of America”
1965 Soke received his 4th Dan by Master Nagle
1967 Soke received his 5th Dan by Master Nagle
1969 Master Shimabuku awarded Soke Murphy with his Senior Master Certification in Isshinryu Karate and Kobujutsu Arts

1965-1970 Soke Murphy became headmaster of the International Institute of Judo and Karate.
1968 Soke Murphy founded Isshin Shorinjiryu Okinawa Te and Kobujutso (a discipline based on the consolidation of various bodies of knowledge about the arts incorporating the original concepts of Shaolinszu and Okinawa Te. This style allows a student to fully assimilate the broadened scope of knowledge and techniques of various styles. Master James Chapmand and Ralph Cherico found Master Murphy’s concepts of training and philosophy to be in keeping with the true goals of the ancient masters and joined with him.
1970 Soke Murphy established his own training hall in Parsippany NJ.
1971 Isshin Shorinjiryu Okinawa Te was incorporated and registered with the US Patent office with the philosophy of this style being “Harmony of principle, Integrity in Purpose and Mutual Benefit”
1979 Soke Murphy left “public instruction” due to the increasing number of inexperienced instructors and “tournament-style” schools.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 07/28/06 11:42 AM

I have finally begun to make some progress on my interview project.

Since my last post, I have conducted interviews with:

Shihan Ralph Chirico (formal and informal, with hopes of a followup)
Sensei Gary Alexander
Sensei Leo Weber
Sensei Woodrow Jensen
Dr. Christopher Viggiano (only a quick, informal interview; I still hope for a more organized and in-depth interview)
Sensei Bill Wallace (he was giving a seminar in Carbondale, so I thought I’d ask him about some of our style’s founders and big influences, and he remembered several of them)

Transcriptions will require a LONG time to complete, and after that is done I do not think everyone will give me permission to share them. I’ll keep you all posted.

Meanwhile, is there anyone with whom I should speak but have not yet? Obviously, I have hopes of interviewing Soke Robert Murphy himself.

I have not been able to locate Sensei Ryzard Neimeira, and am not even sure I am spelling his name correctly— if anyone knows his whereabouts, I hope they’ll write me and let me know.

One interviewee suggested that I speak with Senseis Doug Gould and Morgan Woods. I hope to make arrangements with Sensei Gould sometime soon. Sensei Woods I have not been able to locate, and hope someone here will help me do so.

Another interviewee suggested Senseis Bill Barna and Tom Duggan. I’ve not been able to locate either man, and again I would appreciate any help you can provide.

I am also interested in interviewing any of Sensei James Chapman’s surviving senior students. I have found two people through my research, but was unfortunately too late, for both are deceased. Again, I would appreciate any leads.

I hope that anyone who wishes to provide me with someone else's contact information will write me at CdaleRocks@yahoo.com. Obviously, please do not post anyone's phone numbers, addresses, or email addresses without their permission.
Posted by: Victor Smith

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 07/28/06 03:06 PM

Hi Chris,

While an Isshinryu stylist I'm not Isshin Shorinji ryu.

But I saw you mention Rick Niemira, you can find him at http://www.bohans-family.com/Warrior/Warrior/Warrior.htm

Rick is no longer with us. He died in the mid 80's.

Rick was an original student of Don Bohan (I remember him telling the story about the day all of Bohan's students were in the hospital at the same time from sparring with their instructor) in the North Carolina days, and later he became a Washington DC Police Offficer.

Long ago he switched from Isshinryu to Bando and was part of Bando/Isshinryu connection, but he retained his friends in Isshinryu.

Rich was a very powerful karate-ka.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 07/28/06 07:56 PM

Unfortunately, I'm starting to discover that many of the people who founded or profoundly influenced our style have died, and that I may have undertaken this project a decade or so too late to fully complete it.

I am extremely sorry to hear about the loss of Sensei Niemira, and grateful for the information on the website you listed above.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/04/06 09:40 AM

Chris,

You spoke w/ Chris Viggiano who may/may not have an idea where Murphy is but was a student of his for many years prior to my studying under Chris/Soke Murphy and then just Soke Murphy.... Try finding out where Gary Vincent is (he supposedly moved to FLA and has a bike shop). He is an original student of Soke Murphy's and should have constant contact with him.

Still no word on my end. But then again, I got busy with other things.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/04/06 09:44 AM

Victor-Smith,
Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Carl Wighardt and studied for a while under Soke Murphy... Since moving to MA I have been trying to find a quality place to continue my studies... I noted you were in Derry NH... That is 40' from me... Could you recommend a few places to study?.. I don't care for what style it may be (other than tournament style fighting), I just want quality teaching.
Thank you,
Carl
Posted by: Victor Smith

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/04/06 10:36 AM

Carl, I just sent you a PM on FA.com.
Posted by: Ryujikan

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/05/06 05:06 PM

This was a great post. I am a shorin Ryu stylist but many of my friends are Isshinryu and Okinawan Kempo. I spent 13 years in Okinawa and loved every minute of it.

I'll be back up to NJ this fall and speak to Mr. Cherico and Gary Alexander about this post. I had never heard that Tatsuo shimabukuro was awarded and 8th Dan in Goju and Shorin Ryu. I thought he was a Godan when he founded Isshinryu?

In any case, I enjoyed reading your post and the infromation provided.

Sincerely,
Posted by: Victor Smith

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/05/06 07:33 PM

Frank,

I'm quite afraid that reference of 8th dans in Shorin and Goju for Isshinryu's founder Shimabuku Tatsuo, is simply hyperbole.

In the beginning (quoting Genesis), there was nothing written about Okinawan karate. Some well meaning individual had to write in one of the early books about Shimabuku's rank and then book and article after book and article repeated that unconfirmed source. And that individual likely wanted to believe nothing but the best about their instructor.

I'm quite sure at the time Shimabuku studied there was no rank on Okinawa, it was and is a Japanese confidence trick that the Okinawan's fell for in the 50's and onward.

Miyagi, who was ranked by the Japanese Martial estabilshment as a senior instructor designation (and the highest recognition of any of the Okinawn's pre WWII), never awarded anyone any dan rank. He did not believe in dan rank. After his death in the 50's, the Goju folks whipped up their own ranks. It was about the same time the other groups did the same on Okinawa, and it was the same time Shimabuku Tatsuo founded his Isshinryu and began awarding rank.

But if you want documentation from Okinawa how about Taira Shinken. In his 1964 Ryukyu Kobudo Taikan, he listed Shimabuku Tatsuo as Shihan Isshinryu Karatedo. That seems a fair reference to me.

As to what Shimabuku's rank was even in Isshinryu, I don't think there are any real rules, but a system originator is probably above rank as it's their system, and in turn they likely can be any rank they or their students wish.

So 50 years later with thousands of Isshinryu practioniers, does the founders rank make much difference?
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/09/06 06:55 PM

Wiggy:

Thanks for the suggestion.

Might this be the Gary Vincent to whom you refer?

http://www.nwfdailynews.com/archive/whatever/020207newswhat1.html
Posted by: ANDY44

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/09/06 07:28 PM

But if you want documentation from Okinawa how about Taira Shinken. In his 1964 Ryukyu Kobudo Taikan, he listed Shimabuku Tatsuo as Shihan Isshinryu Karatedo. That seems a fair reference to me.


Hi Victor
You mentioned Taira Shinken? Do you have any more information on him?

Thanks.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/14/06 05:34 PM

I called the store and the answering machine sounded like him. I left him a message to look up this string.... If it is him I have no idea how you found him because I plugged in everything when trying to find him and other people.... I will let you know whether or not we have struck gold.... But the construction accident was a reason why Gary got into bike riding (I actually think he is nationally ranked).... How did you find him because I may be able to look up other senior students the same way.
Posted by: Victor Smith

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/14/06 08:45 PM

Hi Andy,

FightingArts.com has an article on him at http://www.fightingarts.com/reading/article.php?id=119

FightingArts.com already has a wealth of articles on almost any major Okinawan and Japanese martial system that you can turn to anytime. A simple Google will provide more details if you need more information.

Simply he had been a student of karate who was directed into Kobudo study and literally preserved many Kobudo traditions that may have been lost.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/15/06 09:38 AM

Wiggy:

I can't remember what combination of words I used in my Google search— "Gary Vincent" plus "Florida bicycle shop," I think. I think some ESPN sites popped up with his name in cycling rankings.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/21/06 10:51 AM

Everyone:

A note emailed to me by Sensei Gary Vincent:

To Who it may concern,
I understand that some people are looking for me for info about Soke Robert Murphy. I speak to him occassionally when he contacts me. He has been one of the greatest influences in my life. We have both studied together and worked together. He has been my friend for more than 25 years as well as Godfather to my youngest son. Issues of life have been instrumental for him to choose the path that he is taking. If any interested party would like to know more about this incredible man, please contact me. I could speak for many hours about him. I shared 8 months living, training and working with him in the North country by ourselves. The insight to life and who I am is what he showed me. It was an impossible dream to be so lucky. I will be happy to talk to anyone about this man, so you have my permission to repost this letter to all concerned. You would be surprised at the real reasons he did what did in the '70s. He didn't turn his back, he left the imposters and users behind as he moved forward into life. I don't practice very often anymore, but what he placed in my heart is as strong as ever. He gave me the will to survive the worst times in my life, with courage and strength to accomplish a few things that not many could do at my age. Not many can say that.

Sincerely yours,
Gary L. Vincent
850 678 8222 Work
850 803 8282 Cell
garyip@aol.com email
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/30/06 06:20 PM

I'm in the midst of transcribing my interview with Sensei Jensen right now. One person he mentioned was Bob Reesaw. I'm not sure I have the name spelled right— if anyone knows either his whereabouts or at least how to spell his name, I'd sure appreciate it. As always, if you have contact information, please write me at cdalerocks@yahoo.com— don't post other people's personal information online without their permission.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshi Shorinji Ryu Style - 08/31/06 10:46 AM

Sensei Jensen mentioned two more people who are unfamiliar to me: Ron Landis and Chuck Cusumano. Anyone who knows how to spell their names or how to find them, please let me know at cdalerocks@yahoo.com.
Posted by: murphy101

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 09/03/06 06:21 PM

I was directed to this site by my oldest daughter Laura.
Still finding peace in the simple flicker of a candles flame I've not found a need to enter the world of computers,
and if not for Laura would never have known that there was interest in the method.
A long road with many twists and turns as well as a number of sharp switchbacks I will do my best as memory serves me to retell the story accurately.
Nearly all of Don Nagles early photos were destroyed during a very unfortunate dispute but I still have a few that he gave to me. some where as we go on down the line I would be glad to send copies.

Until next time,
The old man
Posted by: MattJ

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 09/03/06 07:17 PM

Welcome murphy101. We look forward to any insights you can share.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 09/04/06 12:36 AM

Soke Murphy:

Just a quick thanks for everything you've done. Though we've never met, I owe a great deal to you. Hopefully you'll have time to write or even speak with us in more detail sometime soon.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 09/04/06 12:19 PM

Soke,
Long time since we last spoke. A lot has happened since I saw you last. I would like to stay in touch with you if that would be o.k.. Please email me at cwighardt@verizon.net and give me your contact information (address, phone, email, or whatever you want)... I'll toast a Salvatore in your honor in the meantime.

Carl Wighardt
Posted by: murphy101

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 09/20/06 08:37 PM

Good to know the "Old Man" is still remembered. At my time of life "feel goods" are well appreciated.
I do not have regular use of a computer, so contact will be somewhat irregular. With time and your patience I hope to share the story of Isshin-Shorinji with you and others who may be interested.
Hope you enjoyed the toast with Salvatore. Here they don't know what the real thing is.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 09/21/06 07:59 PM

Soke:

I have been interviewing many of your former students to try to put together a sort of oral history of Isshin Shorinjiryu. It's coming along very slowly, as I have many other obligations, but I am making progress— and of course the project could never be complete unless I could interview you. I hope you will be willing to participate. Please let me know, at your leisure.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 09/22/06 03:31 PM

Soke,
If you give me an address (could be your daughter's), I will try and send you some..... In the meantime I will continue to work on Chinto and Tiger-Crane.
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 09/22/06 10:47 PM

Sensei, this is Chris. Karl and I have been looking for you for a while now. Would like to get back in touch with you. Please email me your contact info at chrisfin123@yahoo.com when you get a chance. Too much to tell you. Hope to hear from you.
Posted by: murphy101

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 10/06/06 09:34 PM

Lots of water over the dam since last I saw you. good to hear from you. Hope you are doing well at your chosen profession. As I noted in last post, I do not have internet readily available to me therefore must depend on getting into town and using services at the library, Panera Bread Company or other such places. Neither do I have a phone or E-mail and am in the process of getting a new postal address. Should I accomplish this soon, I will pass it on. Until then remember; though sometimes hidden in the briar patch, the WAY is never lost.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 10/09/06 08:43 AM

Soke,

Gary had informed me that you passed on the reigns of isshinshorinji to someone in NJ. Who'm would that be?.... Also, have you recorded or know of recordings of the various forms? I know Tim performs a mean Chinto and wouldn't mind seeing it (don't know if he is still in the caves of Utah)... and I've seen pictures of your grandchildren.... very cute.

Carl
Posted by: murphy101

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 10/19/06 06:52 PM

I thank you for the exaltation to royalty{REIGNS}. I trust you will not be offended if I draw on my ranch-sitting experience in Idaho and use a less regal term to make my point. I did not "pass of the REINS" I simply opened the corral gate to let loose a few fresh horses in the hope they might partner with a few good riders. Over the years, I have been privledged to know a few of them; yourself included. Of Isshin-Shorinji, some practice the forms of its infancy, others of its adolecent years, and some from the early period of its maturity. Each, depending on their time and understanding of the "Idea", bring that experience to their practice. Those who practice for their own sake are less likely to be trapped in the game of numbers, standards, and styles. Remember the Form is not Thing, its about simplicity. Hordes will not flock to your banner, but neither will landlords determine your practice.
Posted by: murphy101

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 10/20/06 06:58 PM

A lesson learned in the "Corps" long ago..."no one can do your pushups for you." I'm certain you worked long and hard to acquire your skills,I am honored that you count me among those who may have added color to your canvas. I will help where I can.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 10/24/06 11:19 AM

True, and certainly I do my own pushups. But someone had to invent pushups, which in this case you did, figuratively speaking. For that, thanks certainly is due.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 10/25/06 10:47 AM

Soke, I take no offense whatsoever. I know that Gary and Tim were at the exaltation but did not know of the other people there. Since You,Tim, Gary and I all moved I can't just stop by for a chat... I still inquire as to the other "rider" whom is now teaching in NJ as my nephew lives around your prior neck of the woods and is in need of a good school... Also, knowing everyone's form is different, the movements are still the same (only in one's interpretation does it change). Therefore I remain to inquire if you know of anyone who has video documented the forms... I take great pride in being considered one of the "good" riders. However, I point to you for showing me the way and allowing your style to be my style by focusing on my strengths.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 11/20/06 08:23 AM

Soke,
Just got an email from Tim. He told me that you and him were looking for Mr. Ansari.... I forwarded the information to Tim but let me know if you would like it posted on this list as well.
Carl
Posted by: murphy101

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 12/11/06 03:06 PM

Carl,
I have not had contact with any students/instructors for many years. If memory still serves me, Ralph Cherico and Almerico and Anita Santucci continue to operate commercial schools and are the most likely to be teaching the broad based curriculum that was in place prior to 1980. Ralph continued teaching under the banner of Isshin shorinji, while Al and Anita,renamed the teachings with my permission. all are rcognized Masters and excellent teachers. Dean Ansari,another very dedicated practitioner
was teaching in a park in the Plainfield area and likely is compelled by circumstance to teach an abbreviated curriculum. Others who adapted for various reasons but were still teaching are Charles Cusumano, Robert Cusumano, and Woodrow Jensen, all Master practioners. Masters Walter and Virginia Fanning,now living in Pennsylvania have been practioners of Aikido for ten plus years...wise decision...less politics and animosity between schools and instructors(my daddy can beat your daddy). Dr.Christopher Viggiano was the first of the "new breed"(1980's 90,and beyond.You,Timmy,Chris are of that generation.
Posted by: Lockjaw

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 12/12/06 10:47 PM

Soke, after many attempts to locate you I am finally gaining ground.Last time we spoke was circa 87/88 I believe.My life, like yours, has gone through many twists and turns.I have never forgotten or lost pride in all I was able to learn about myself and others as a student of yours.I count you still as a great friend and mentor.I have kept in touch with some of my fellow karateka, friendships that date back to my introduction to Isshin-Shrinji ryu in Parsiipany around 1970 (?).
My reasons for seeking your whereabouts are few.I am mostly curious about your health and welfare, and that of your family.I want you to know that you are often on my mind.I am now retired living north of Tampa, Fl., on the "nature coast".I would love to speak with you or visit sometime if possible.Are you still riding motorcycles?
I look forward to hearing from you.
Jim Stedman
Posted by: gvyukon

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 12/15/06 02:35 AM

Soke Murphy,
I would very much like to hear from you. Email me at garyip@aol.com if you get the time. Call me at the store and reverse the charges 850-678-8222 from 12 noon until 7:00pm cst Tue thru Fri. It's been too long, and many things have happened. I look forward to hearing from you.

With best regards,
Gary Vincent
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 12/18/06 11:57 AM

First, I want to take this time to wish Soke and his family a Merry Christmas and a very happy 2007.... I also wanted to wish everyone on this list the same.... I wish for Soke to get his motorcycle, eternal peace and happiness for Gary, a fancy guitar for Tim, enlightenment for Chris12... and although sappy to say, I wish for peace amongst all of us so as to permanently shut off that fight or flight switch.

See everyone in 2007

Carl
Posted by: DragonFire

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 12/19/06 11:56 AM

I am looking for any info you might have on Isshin Shorinjiryu. I am a Student under Hercul Brown of the Dragon Fire Acedemy of Martial Arts in Aurora Il.

I am interested in the lineage of Isshin Shorinjiryu and am tracing it back through Master Heriaud to Robert Murphy, James Chapman etc on back.

If I have it corectly.

The lineage is (in reverse order):

Brown
Heriaud
Murphy
Chapman
Nagle
Master Shimabuku Tatsuo
and his instructors Masters Hirara Shinken and Yabe Kumoden.

Any Info, Photos etc you might have access to would be appreciated.

I am also interested in finding out more about Mr. Chapman and Mr. Murphy.

I am really interested in obtain a photo of Soke Murphy and those who came before him for our DOJO.

Please contact me via my email If you any info or can help in anyway at all.

My email is Dburgin@mac.com
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 12/19/06 01:06 PM

I vaguely knew Sensei Brown, who was an outstanding martial artist— I attended the YMCA in Plano (before it moved to Yorkville), and Sensei Brown primarily worked out at the Aurora YMCA.

The order of our lineage is a little confusing, because some students had more than one instructor. Here's how I understand it, though don't take my work for it (others, please feel free to post corrections!): It starts with Isshinryu founder Shimabuku Tatsuo, who taught Don Nagle. Sensei Nagle came back to America and worked out with Sgt. Don Bohan (see http://www.bohans-family.com) before starting his own school in New Jersey.

Soke Murphy was a student of Sensei Nagle's before founding Isshin Shorinjiryu. Sensei Chapman was not originally a student of Soke Murphy; rather, Sensei Chapman and Soke Murphy were fellow students of Sensei Nagle. At some point, Sensei Chapman converted to Isshin Shorinjiryu under Soke Murphy. Sensei Chapman taught Sensei Heriaud, who taught Sensei Brown.

So it's
Shihan Shimabuku Tatsuo
(Sergaent Bohan)
Sensei Nagle
Soke Murphy
Sensei Chapman
Sensei Heriaud
Sensei Brown
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 12/19/06 05:13 PM

Well if you are reading this thread you can ask the founder himself as he is posted under Murphy 101 (Although he may be too modest)... From my perspective the founder is and always will be Soke Robert Murphy.... Our style has many influences but at the same time you don't go crediting Ferrari for the Lamborghini (founder for Lamborghini loved the Ferrari but found problems he wanted fixed and did just that with his own company), nor do you credit IBM for the Macintosh (they stole the idea of the windows platform), and many other instances too many to mention.

So given a previous post of mine, I would state the lineage goes from Soke Murphy to whomever he taught to whomever he taught and so on until you get to the person you are learning from. Our system is like a tree that has many branches. Your style is one branch on the opposite side of the tree than mine.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 12/20/06 12:48 AM

I spoke (wrote) out of turn here, and somewhat speculatively at that. As Sensei Wighardt just pointed out, Soke Murphy has been posting and could— and hopefully will— provide authoritative answers to some of the above questions. Meanwhile, my apologies.
Posted by: gvyukon

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 12/20/06 02:47 AM

To everyone in this arena of life, I wish true happiness, especially for our group who studied with Soke Murphy in Flanders, NJ. We have moved all over the country marching to the beat of different drummers, but still bonded together by the teachings of life by Soke.The true value of a man is the effect that he has on those around him. To honor him for those that he motivated is his everlasting legacy. After reading all the posts giving honor and respect to Soke Murphy, my menial opinion seems to be the tip of the proverbial iceberg. To those I know through our system and those I don't, I wish you all the happiness life can afford you. Share his teachings with others, for that best compliments and gives testament to his life's work. Happy Holidays to everyone.

Gary Vincent
Posted by: reverenddave

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 12/28/06 04:30 PM

I've wondered for years where Robert Murphy got his versions
of the Pinan kata and what were the inspirations for the changes he made to them.
Mr. Murphy ?
Chris - did any of your interviews address this question ?

Thanks.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 12/29/06 10:24 AM

I've asked the question in all of my interviews, but as yet nobody to whom I've spoken knows the origins of our versions of the Pinans.
Posted by: CCusumano

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/01/07 09:32 AM

Hi, I'm Charles Cusumano. I recently joined this site through Mr. Wissmann.
I am one of Robert Murphy's early students. I was trained in Isshin Ryu and went through the transition to Isshin Shorinji. I was an original student at the Parsippany Dojo and taught Isshin Shorinji at Fairleigh Dickinson Univ Florham/Madison Campus. I am rank designated as Shihan Menkyo.
I taught in Sterling Colorado for about 5 years. Our class visited Mr. Jensen's class at the Univ. of Wyoming at one point.
I am no longer teaching but am willing to give what ever info anyone may want as to my early Isshin Ryu days and the birth and early evolution of Isshin Shorinji.
Posted by: CCusumano

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/01/07 11:36 AM

I thought I'd throw this in from "the day". Myself and Soke Murphy
Posted by: MattJ

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/01/07 11:50 AM

Thanks for the picture, Charles. It's nice to be able to see some of the folks referenced in this thread. Welcome to the forums.
Posted by: Lockjaw

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/03/07 12:25 AM

Mr. Cusomano, nice to see the photo.I had the pleasure of working out in Parsippany back in the day with your brother Robert, yourself, and my friend Woody Jensen.This forum is bringing out many of us from the "old days".It was a great time in my life.I am looking forward to hearing more.Hopefully, we will be joined and counseled by Soke Murphy.Happy New Year.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/22/07 12:03 PM

To quote Ferris Beuller's Day Off and slightly modify it for our purposes here: Soke?..... Soke?..... Soke?......

Also, since many other students of Soke and students of students of Soke are on this list. Can I get a quick idea of where everyone is located? Whether you are still active or not it seems that a lot of people want to keep contact and we should be able to either create a website or organization to do so.... I am not web savvy but would be very excited to support a website that holds the history of Isshin-Shorinji Ryu, pictures of Soke and others, various contacts in different states, video of Kata, discussion of ideas, etc....
Posted by: murphy101

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/22/07 07:34 PM

I'm sure you are enjoying retirement. I hope to try it myself oneday. I'm OK, family not doing well. Life is about our choices. Still riding motorcycles though dodging four wheelers is becoming more of an adventure than I would like. Before long would like trade off 850+ lbs Nomad for a lighter Triumph. Once past the 70 yr mark the poundage takes it's toll. I read your previous post and thank you much for your kind comments. Will be back on the line soon. Hope to clear up issues and put Isshin Shorinji in perspective.
Do good deeds, the Old Man
Posted by: murphy101

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/22/07 07:48 PM

Thank you Gary. You honor me greatly and I am appreciative. My apologies, though the "Idol" was flawed the "Idea" was not. I am grateful that so many have preserved the "Idea."
Be well,Talk to you soon
Posted by: Lockjaw

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/22/07 08:15 PM

Soke, thanks so much for your reply.I see I am not alone in wishing to re-establish contact with you.As far as retirement goes, it is a mixed bag.I am not a sitter, and it's a good thing because my wife aka "first sergeant" never stops adding items to my HONEY DO list!I have only been here in Florida for 21 months.I do not miss Joysey at all.The new Triumph bikes are really nice.I like the nostalgia models like the Bonneville.
I am like so many others here that feel a strong connection to you even if it has been dormant.I still remain in pretty good shape @ 64.I have benefitted greatly from my studies with you.The sense of comraderie that existed for some years in the 70's was wonderful.I pay little attention to all the modern day martial arts "world".Too much attention is paid to designer uniforms, rankings and of all things, kata performed and choreographed to music! Yikes! I feel so very fortunate, if not honored, to have come under your tutelage in a classical setting with little or no BS.
I could keep rambling so I will close by just saying it is great to read your response to my humble message.Semper Fi !
JS
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/24/07 10:59 AM

Quick question: I was recently fact- and spell-checking the history that I posted above. It mentions a Bojutsu master named Yabe Kumoden under whom Shimabuku Tatsuo studied. I couldn't find anything about Yabe Kumoden online, except what was posted above. Is Yabe Kumoden's name misspelled? Does anyone have any information about this person?
Posted by: SenseiWolf

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/25/07 02:19 PM

Greeting to Masters, Senseis and fellow Martial Artists.
I am Scott Francis and my name has been mentioned on this site in the past and I have reviewed the ongoing conversations and I am very happy to have seen some entries from people that I have known for years and others I have only heard of in passing. I am one of Thomas Heriauds Black Belts. I have trained in many different systems but I have always considered the Isshin Shorinji Ryu system to be my base. I laugh today when I hear of the term Mixed Martial Arts, like it is some new thing. I am so grateful to have come across this system when I was about 13 and once I started at the YMCA located in Plano Illinois, I was hooked. Even though I have never met Soke Murphy, I have a deep feeling of gratitude that he had the courage and knowledge to combine the information that he did. He truly was ahead of his time.
Today I am still affiliated with the Plano YMCA and the Aurora YMCA. I was sad to hear that the Aurora YMCA will be closing its doors in April, 2007. This is where James Chapman started the Academy of the Martial Arts many years ago. Today I own Dojo Dynamics located in Sandwich, Illinois. My student enrollment is usually 80 to 100. I have never really been able to break that 100 mark, and to be honest I don’t really care to. The smaller numbers allows me to continue to provide a quality curriculum and not compromise the integrity of my teachings. We started out as a “tournament school” but I don’t know if it comes with age or what the reason is, but it has evolved into much more than that. We have gone from competing at 20 to 30 tournaments a year to possible a hand full. I have my trophies and medals and titles and the odd thing is, that every year I get older, the lesser any of that matters and the “true meaning” of the arts does. Now, it is finding what that true meaning is, that is where I am today. I truly think that the answer is an individual outcome and that my internal peace will be the gold.
Some of you have called me and e-mailed me at SenseiFrancis@dojodynamics.com. I have had a few questions asked of me and a few pleasant surprises of pictures sent to me. I have been a part of the Chicagoland martial arts community for many years and some of the politics has just made me sick. It is nice to really feel a part of a family with people that I have never met. I feel in some way, reading the letters on this site, like I am reading the history from my Grandfathers, Fathers, Uncles and Cousins. Thank you for the freedom to grow and the sharing of knowledge. I do hope that Soke Murphy puts the history in perspective, but as for me, it is not where I am going, it is the journey that I am on that is most important and I will always honor my past. Life is about changes and I don’t think the founders of any system want there followers to remain dormant and not be a seeker.
I offer to any of you that may come through this way a place to stay for a few days and a Dojo to work out in. What an honor it would be to visit with my brothers in this brotherhood. My web-site was started a year or so ago and from what I have read, was a disappointment for those that have visited it. It was put in place strictly as a place for someone to get my hours and some quick information. I apologize for it being so baron, but I welcome you to start taking a look at in the next few weeks because I will be placing photos and our history on there. Pictures of past and present and the history as it has been written from our records to present day. Anything that I have can be copied and available for you, for it is not mine. It has somehow made it to me to hold onto for a while. Please check us out in the next few weeks at www.dojodynamics.com
I would just like to thank you all and most of all Soke Murphy for directly and indirectly positively affecting so many of our journeys. Please feel free to contact me or come visit me if and when any of you are in the Chicago area.
Scott Francis
Posted by: murphy101

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/05/07 07:32 PM

As part of the larger research project which lead to later formulation of Isshin Shorinji I acquired and practiced the Pinan/Heian of several schools. I learned the first set from a practionner of Moo Du Kwan Tang Soo Do ( prior to their school becoming part of the Korean National Tae Kwan Do organization). Next the forms of Shorin (the 4th & 5th were practiced using Nunchaku). Lastly Heians of ShotoKai style from the Master Obata/Oshima line. I took from the three schools interpretations (strategy&tactic) that may not have occurred in all three, especially were they showed the actual application. In my opinion they became somewhat more complex than any one of the single forms I had practiced. These adaptations came about over a number of years. Though I originally taught the ShotoKai style in my schools I continued to experiment(practice) the others, finally dropping all but the reformulated set.
My inspiration for the change was the variety and uniqueness of the interpretations as explained to me.

I preferred to keep both candles burning rather than blowing one out...much better in the darkness.
Posted by: SenseiWolf

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/06/07 02:33 PM

Thank you Soke Murphy. I appreciate the answers to these questions. I have also been asked where they have come from. This question can now be laid to rest. I and so many other are glad to see you are still among us and appreciate you taking the time to answer our questions.
Thank you!!!!
Scott Francis
Posted by: murphy101

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/06/07 07:20 PM

Congradulations to you Scott. You have discovered the "SECRET". A MAN puts his foot on a path and a journey begins. A MAN makes a choice from choices and has a vision. Result, right or wrong, good or bad is the opinion of "the Observer"(Who is the Observer?). Pity the person who becomes lost at crossroads. Pity the person who will not chose as they see no choices.(Not to chose is a choice...without a vision). There will always be those who walk a straight line toward the horizon, though never cover the distance(experience)to know they take short steps on "the Great Circle"(the purpose of stance training, more easily understood through the practice of tai chi)......

A MAN puts his foot on a path and a journey begins. A MAN makes a choice from choices and has a vision.

Ahhhh...What an adventure. Enjoy
Posted by: gvyukon

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/08/07 07:31 PM

Soke;
If you would be so kind as to contact me at garyip@aol.com when you get the chance. If everything goes as planned, I will become a Deputy Sheriff in my area any day. I guess you would call it an interesting path and/or journey that I have chosen. I would very much like to talk to you-It has been way too long! Take care.

Best Regards,
Gary
Posted by: MattJ

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/12/07 01:38 PM

Posting this on behalf of Ronin1966, who is having trouble accessing the thread for now:

"Can anyone help answer? I am seeking basic background-lineage information.

Was Isshin Shorinjiryu Okinawa-Te imported directly from Okinawa or was it born in the United States? (If it was directly from Okinawa, who taught it there?)

Mr. Murphy studied directly with Tatsuo Shimabuku ? If so, when and for how long +/-? Was any ranking given?

Re: Don Nagle was Mr. Murphy a "peer" (ie same basic time frame, also a direct student of Shimabuku) or simply a student under Nagle Sensei in Mr. Nagle's Jersey City school?

These questions are not asked to stir up problems, merely questions for which decisive, clear answers cannot yet be found. Could Mr. Murphy perhaps (or anyone else) please help clarify these issues?

Respectfully ,

Jeff"
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/12/07 02:23 PM

Jeff,

I'm probably stepping out of line here. However, Soke Murphy (whom I owe more to than I could ever repay) will never promote himself.

Previous references in this thread that may help you are as follows: "1968 Soke Murphy founded Isshin Shorinjiryu Okinawa Te and Kobujutso (a discipline based on the consolidation of various bodies of knowledge about the arts incorporating the original concepts of Shaolinszu and Okinawa Te. This style allows a student to fully assimilate the broadened scope of knowledge and techniques of various styles. true... 1971 Isshin Shorinjiryu Okinawa Te was incorporated and registered with the US Patent office with the philosophy of this style being “Harmony of principle, Integrity in Purpose and Mutual Benefit”


and (AKA "styles" that helped shape Isshinshoriji Ryu):

"People Soke Murphy has been influenced by:(Jujutsu) Frederick Kloth, Paul Cerniglia, Richard Barbato, Russel Prandi. (Judo) Kazuda. (Yoshin Jutsu) Yanasuda K. (Isshinryu) Shimabuku Tatsuo, Don Nagle, James Chapman, Ruzard Neimeira, Donald Bohan. (Aikido) K. Watanabe, Richard Bowe, William Clarek, Rocco Signorelli. (Goju) Peter Urban, Richard Waller. (Shotokan) Oshima Tsutomu, Carol Welsh, Andrew Linick, William Hall. (Kenjutsu) James Talbot. (Omoriryu) Kan Shihan, Ronald Landis. (Tai Chi Chuan) Lee M., Gilbert Shaffner, Arnold Ho, G. Yeung, Peter Chan, Tsung Hwa Jon. (Gung Fu) William Chung. (Pai Lum) H. Han, Roland Arn. (Bolo) Santi Madieria. (Bak Hok Pai) Paul Whang. (Moo Duk Kwan Tang Soo Do) Frank Heitman……. Other styles Soke became influenced by from the above (some of the teachers above specialized in more than one style) include Okinawan GoJU, Shurite, Motobu Ha Kumite, Kobujutsu, Wajutsu, Isshin Jujutsu, Shorinji Kempo, Shoto Kai, Eishinryu, Eishinryu laido, Chi Kung…."

and:

"1958 Soke sponsors the first Issinryu school in the northeast. He begins practice under Master Don Nagle (along with James Chapman, Ruzard Neumeira, and Gary Alexander)... 1965 Soke received his 4th Dan by Master Nagle... 1967 Soke received his 5th Dan by Master Nagle... 1969 Master Shimabuku awarded Soke Murphy with his Senior Master Certification in Isshinryu Karate and Kobujutsu Arts"

So in short,
Soke founded Isshinshorinji Ryu in the U.S., he originally started as a student under Don Nagle and then became a peer. As to actual dates of study onder Shimabuku I cannot tell you.

I hope this helps.
Posted by: Ronin1966

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/14/07 12:51 AM

Hello Wiggy:

Hopefully Mr. Murphy will be able to clarify.

My questions do not detract from the incredible things his martial "grandchild"(?) has now achieved/become! I merely seek re-confirmation from the ~original source~ (ie Mr. Murphy) of important "Isshinryu" pieces & basic time frames ...


Can anyone else cross-confirm the information Wiggy offered?

Respectfully,
Jeff
Posted by: SenseiWolf

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/24/07 01:56 AM

Thank you so much for your kind words Soke Murphy.
It is funny that you use the analogy of the journey, because I personally live my life by two sayings and one is, that it is not the destination, it is the journey. The other saying I live by is, knowing I will die tomorrow, how will I choose to live my life today. Again, all about the choices. I don’t know who to give credit to who said them first, but I say them now. The comment you made about those at the cross roads has actually gotten me thinking since I first read your reply a few weeks ago. It is amazing as challenging as the martial arts is, that I have met so many martial artists that are stuck in their journeys. I find on my journey, that one of the things that has kept me on track is to never forget where I have come from and I honor those that have blazed the paths before me. You have not made my journey any less painful, but there is comfort in knowing that someone was there before me. Thank you for walking the path before me, and if only though a computer screen, I am honored to be walking these steps of the journey together. Thank you again.
Semper Fi
Scott Francis
Posted by: murphy101

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/26/07 09:05 PM

Ye of great faith and enduring loylalty, be not troubled. Had I stayed in the mist, not responding to this forum, I TOO might have become a LEGEND. However, I am not inclined to become one "in my own mind" nor in anyone elses. Jeff has real concerns regarding his heritage. I sense like you he is a "seeker" and as such the quest is always righteous leading to a more intimate understanding of SELF. Afterall, without inquiry there would be no need for a forum. I will also expand on one of your posts regarding those who influenced and inspired that which came (by default) to be known as "a style" named Isshin-Shorinji.
The Atlanta Bread Company has sered it's las cup of coffee for the evening and I'm off the WIRE.
Until next we visit remain stalwart.
"the Old Man"












Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/28/07 01:55 AM

It is with deepest sadness to announce that Soke Robert L. Murphy had passed away late on Monday night 2/26/07 ... He was having heart problems for the last few months and was rushed to the hospital not much after his last post...

As a personal apprentice of Soke since 1980, I have seen him through the bliss and heartache of his deepest passions in the Martial Arts, as well as in the turmoil of "The System",... his system, of Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te.

We had been working on compiling new and old ideas/memories in an audio format to be placed on CD ... I have been the caretaker of the archival pictures and papers for years now. His daughter Laura and I will be putting together a long awaited well deserved tribute on a memorial website in honor of one of the greatest Martial Arts Pioneers ... Soke Robert L. Murphy.

Sensei,... we all love you & will miss you eternally.

Please respect the family, I will supply a contact for flowers and condolences in a few days.

Always your Faithful Student:
Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano - Shihan/Shifu
shihancv@comcast.net
Posted by: Victor Smith

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/28/07 10:21 AM

Christopher,

I'm very sorry to hear of the passing of Soke Murphy.

I'm sure all of us here extend our condolances to his family and friends.
Posted by: daughterofsoke

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/28/07 10:53 AM

Dear Dad,

I love you and will miss you so much. There were so many things we had just started that rekindled your joy in the martial arts...all so unfinished, including teaching your 8 year old grandson all that you knew. I can only hope to complete what we started together in your memory.
I miss you Dad, so does Kyle and Nicole.
Now you're no longer in pain, rest in peace.

All my love, with all my heart.
Your loving daughter,
Laura
Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/28/07 10:59 AM

Greetings ... Peace be with you.

I just got off the phone with Laura Farren, Soke Murphy's oldest daughter. If you would like to send flowers, a card or some written testimony how Soke Murphy has affected your life ... please send them to the following:

A memorial service will be held:
Friday Evening March 2, 2007

Hamilton Mill Memorial Chapel and Gardens
3481 Hamilton Mill Road
Buford, GA 30519
770-945-6924

Laura Farren
2645 Evergreen Eve Crossing
Dacula, GA 30019
770-237-8803
____________________________________________________________

Since Grandmaster Murphy's roots are from New Jersey ... the family will be coming up from Georgia to have a memorial service to celebrate the life of their loved one. This gathering of family,friends & students will be held at:

The Master Jou, Tsung Hwa Tai Chi Memorial Park
818 Rt.23, Wantage, NJ 07461

Tentative Date: Saturday March 31, 2007
More details will follow:
To contact me ...

Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano - Shihan/Shifu
shihancv@comcast.net
908.852.4829
Posted by: harlan

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/28/07 11:00 AM

Laura...I'm very sorry for your loss. Thank you for pointing your father to this site...I enjoyed the amiable discourse while it lasted.

Peace.
Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/28/07 02:50 PM


Updated: Corrected Dates
__________________________________________________________

Soke Robert L. Murphy
Grandmaster and Founder of
Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te

1-21-37 : 2-27-07

70 Years Young
------------------------------------------------------------

Words to Ponder from Soke Murphy

" When you ask me how do I follow The Way, I will answer to you in this manner ...

I sleep, eat, laugh, and cry THE WAY...

Sometimes I feel that I soar with the Eagles and other times I trip and fall, but rise again.

If you do as I do ... you will lose your own experience, your own identity by trying to live mine.

If you follow me, you may be upset if I stray and fall ...

and then you may say, 'See, this is not so perfect' ...

This means that you think only in terms of imitation.

Do not follow in the steps of the 'Men of old' ... seek what they have sought "

Words given to me by Soke Robert L. Murphy


Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano
shihancv@comcast.net
Posted by: Lockjaw

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/28/07 08:43 PM

TO ALL THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN POSTING HERE... Every night for months now I have been anxious to click on this forum hoping to hear more from my Sensei and good friend, Soke Murphy.From the spring of 1969 until 1983 I was privileged to have his time and attention countless hours.He had an extraordinary talent for teaching no matter how dense or slow I was at learning.I never saw him humiliate or embarrass a student.If someone needed to be "reigned in" he did it effortlessly.I will never forget the wisdom he put into my atmosphere.all of you who knew the man are no doubt feeling the same way I am this evening.

GOD SPEED SOKE MURPHY.
Posted by: SenseiWolf

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/01/07 01:17 AM

To The Blood Family of, and to all of the extended family that Soke Murphy has touched with his experiences, knowledge and gifts. I am at a loss of the words to say. A man that I felt I was just getting to know has left this life. Tonight, as I left my Dojo, I looked back and saw the patch that so many of us have served under for so many years, like a flag that we all honor, and thought to myself, he will never be forgotten and will live through that patch, that flag and the blood that pumps through our veins as long as we continue to practice what Soke Murphy created. I would be honored to come to any service and memorial that may be held in Soke Murphy’s honor. Would anyone be interested in putting a fellow Shihan up for a night if I were to make the journey from Illinois? I don’t need much, a spot on a Dojo floor would work fine for me. Please let me know. It would be nice to meet some of the members of this brotherhood.
Rest In Peace Soke Murphy.
And ThankYou,
Shihan Scott A. Francis
Posted by: CCusumano

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/01/07 07:45 AM

I was shocked to hear of Soke Murphy's passing. As one of his original Isshin-Shorinji Black Belts, I have many fond memories of those Halcion Days. There is no way to put into words how exposure to his teachings affected me. As with all students and teachers, we had our differences but beyond that I will forever be indebted to him for his wisdom and guidance during my own struggles in the Arts. God Bless and Rest.
Charles Cusumano
Shihan-Menkyo
Posted by: MattJ

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/01/07 11:59 AM

Kindest regards to friends and family of Mr. Murphy.
Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/01/07 09:31 PM

On behalf of Soke Murphy's Family and Isshin Shorinji Ryu ... here is the current information. The service in GA will begin tomorrow 3-2-07 around 7:00 pm ...please take a moment of silence, light a candle or incense ... and reflect upon how Soke through his passions & teachings made life that much more meaningful for all of you. We will remember this ordinary man with extraordinary talents & character ... beyond willing to share a pathway in Life, in Quest of 'The Way' ...

The Memorial Sevice for the Celebration of Soke Murphy's Life will be in New Jersey ... Saturday March 31, 2007 at the:

Master Jou, Tsung Hwa Tai Chi Memorial Park
818 Rt. 23, Wantage, NJ 07461
11:00 am - 4:00 pm

We are still trying to get in contact with any students especially from the early days such as:
Fred Chaffe, Steve Padalino, Jim Stedman (locksmith),
Al & Anita Santucci , etc.

Please have them contact me:

Blessings & Peace,
Dr. Christopher M Viggiano - Shihan/Shifu

shihancv@comcast.net
908.852.4829

____________________________________________________________

Robert Lawrence Murphy, age 70 of Gainesville, GA, died suddenly Tuesday, February 27, 2007. A Memorial Service will be held Friday, March 2, 2007 at 7:00 P.M. at Hamilton Mill Memorial Chapel, Buford. The Family will receive friends on Friday evening immediately following the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the “Robert Murphy Memorial Fund” at any Bank of America location. Surviving are wife, Carol Murphy, Dacula; Daughters, Lauren Farren, Dacula, Tara Burt, Dacula; Grandchildren, Kyle, Erin, Nicole and Hannah. Mr. Murphy was born in Jersey City, NJ and lived in the metro Atlanta area the past 12 years. He was a Veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Founder and Grandmaster of the Martial & Healing Arts Isshin Shorinji Ryu and was employed by Hall County Government as a Security Officer.

Hamilton Mill Memorial Chapel
770-945-6924
www.hamiltonmillchapel.com
Posted by: Lockjaw

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/01/07 10:03 PM

Dr. Chris, I have been here all along posting as "lockjaw".
I appreciate your efforts to keep us all informed.I have been trying to reach fred Chaffe.He is somewhere around Hancock, N.Y. I can be reached @ 352 428 1684.
Jim Stedman
Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/01/07 11:18 PM

Greetings Shihan Scott A. Francis ...

We all appreciate your kind words and will have a place for you to stay after your travels to NJ to celebrate the Life of Soke Murphy ... Please contact me by e-mail so I can give to you the information.

Respectfully,
Dr. Viggiano
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/01/07 11:31 PM

I hope to collect my thoughts and write something a little more profound during the next few days, but right now I'm still really at a loss for words.

Though I never met or spoke with Soke Murphy, I'm a product of his teachings, without which I would be a far lesser person. Thousands of people, I think, can say the same, and there may be no greater tribute any human can receive than to know they have immeasurably improved the lives of so many others.

During the last few days I've spoken with or emailed Al Santucci, Leo Weber, Ralph Chirico, Woodrow Jensen, Dean Ansari, Charles and Robert Cusumano, and Walter Fanning, and told them about the information on this site. (Some already knew.) I also left messages for Bill Bressaw and Douglas Gould.
Posted by: stevem

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/03/07 02:27 AM

Greetings during these sad times. To Laura, so sorry. I lost my mom last summer. And it sounds like you were close. How numerous must be his children in Isshin Shorinji Ryu? I'm Steve Matesi, a student of Shihan Scott Francis, at Dojo Dynamics in Sandwich, Illinois. I am Go Kyu. It's strange, just as we were all 'getting to know him', in a virtual way. Well, this is from a picture we have on our Dojo wall http://www.dojodynamics.com/murphy.html And here's one of Soke and Master Heriaud http://www.dojodynamics.com/hm24.jpg
Posted by: CCusumano

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/04/07 09:59 AM

Just wondering. Where was and when was that picture of Master Heriaud take?
Thanks,
Shihan Charles Cusumano
Posted by: SenseiWolf

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/04/07 05:20 PM

Shihan Charles Cusumano,
I would need to ask Master Heriaud, but as far as i know, i believe the photo was taken in the very early 70's and i believe it was taken on trip that several of our crew had taken from the Chicago land area to New Jersey to be tested by Soke Murphy. Tom Heriaud along with John Shafer and several others made several journeys thru the years to visit with Soke Murphy. The dates of these trips were through out the 70's after James Chapmans(Tom Heriaud's direct Sensei)passed away in a tragic auto accident. I hope this answers your question and please feel free to ask anything you would like. Take care.
Shihan Scott A. Francis
Posted by: SenseiWolf

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/05/07 01:33 AM

Dr. Viggiano - Shihan/Shifu,
Thank you so much for your extension of brotherhood. I will reply to you off the list as well, but I wanted to publicly thank you for your hospitality. I find that the relationships that I have found though the martial arts far surpass any that I have made out side of the martial arts family with one exception, I am also a biker and those are two rare families that I can honestly say would be there and would really have your back. Easy words to say but not too many would back them up. I appreciate your offer of hospitality and look forward to this journey at the end of the month, I just wish it were under different circumstances. Sometimes it takes things like this to bring us together and the Isshin Shorinji family in the Chicago area has never forgotten where we have come from and who the influences were that have gotten us as far as we have. The feelings for me behind this are of that, even though I have never been to New Jersey to meet any of you, part of me feels like I am coming home. I look forward to the day that we meet.
Until that day, Respectfully,
Shihan Scott A. Francis
Posted by: lweber

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/05/07 04:58 PM

Our sincere condolences to Carol,her children and their families.Soke Murphy was a great teacher and dear friend.I've known him and his family since 1961.We will be at the memorial service 31 March. Thank you Chris Wissman for reaching out.
Posted by: ckel

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/06/07 09:30 AM

I am deeply grateful to Soke Murphy for what he directly and indirectly has taught me through my study under you, Chris. From my perspective, Soke Murphy took his "way" and his instruction of that "way" deeply serious, always wanting it to remain as consistent as possible with its origins and purity. As any artist can attest to, this is an extremely frustrating, rewarding, but always noble, endeavor.

As we recently discussed, what I have learned and continue to learn from both his and your teachings, continues to remain relevant to me, both personally and professionally. Certainly, it is safe to say that I would not be living the martial way today and feeling the intense personal satisfaction with that way, if it had not been for the both of you.

In friendship,

CPT C Kelshaw
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/06/07 07:38 PM

Does anyone know of the whereabouts of Steve Lundquist? I lost contact with him and feel he should also know of the memorial...
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/09/07 11:31 PM

Hello everyone. I wanted to share something with you. Today I had a luchen with Sensei Ansari who is now our Grandmaster as given the honor by our late Sensei Murphy. We laughed and shared many stories. Sensei Ansari gave me a copy of a Poem that was Soke's favorite and I wanted to share that with you now.

THE LAND OF BEGINNING AGAIN

I wish that there were some wonderful place
Called the Land of Beginning Again,
Where all our mistakes and all our heartaches
And all of our poor selfish grief
Could be dropped like a shabby old coat at the door,
And never be put on again.

I wish we could come on it all unaware,
Like a hunter who finds a lost trail;
And I wish that the one whom our blindness had done
The greatest injustice of all
Could be at the gates like an old friend that waits
For the comrade he's gladdest to hail.

We would find all the things we intended to do
But forgot, and remembered too late,
Little praises unspoken, little promises broken,
And all of the thousand and one
Little duties neglected that might have perfected
The day for one less fortunate.

It wouldn't be possible not to be kind
In The Land Beginning Again;
And the ones we misjudged and the ones whom we grudged
Their moments of victory here
Would find in the grasp of our loving handclasp
More than patient lips could explain.

For what had been hardest we'd know had been best,
And what had seemed loss would be gain;
For there isn't a sting that will not take wing
When we've faced it and laughed it away;
And I think that the laughter is most what we're after
In The Land of Beginning Again.

So I wish that there were some wonderful place
Called The Land of Beginning Again,
Where all our mistakes and all our heartaches
And all of our poor selfish grief
Could be dropped like a shabby old coat at the door,
And never be put on again.

Louisa Fletcher

I hope you enjoyed it. If you never knew him, this could give you a bit of insight on him. He was my teacher and I will miss him greatly.

Chris
Posted by: Lockjaw

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/10/07 09:20 AM

Hello, Chris..
I would really appreciate you giving Sensei Ansari my name and email address and phone #.I have been trying to reach him.I appreciated your contribution of Soke's favorite poetry.
Thanks for your help.
Jim Stedman
LOCKJAW62@bellsouth.net
352 428 1684
Posted by: daughterofsoke

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/10/07 11:39 PM

Chris Chevez,

As the daughter of Soke Murphy, that is not your place to make announcements such as the one you posted here. Contact me immediately and everyone else please disregard any information that he places on the website unless it is confirmed by me.

Laura Murphy

Any further questions any one else has regarding MY father and HIS system, please contact me directly.
Posted by: SenseiWolf

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/11/07 05:10 PM

Dear Mrs. Murphy and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I lost my parents when I was in my early 20’s and I owe the Martial Arts to help me get through that difficult time. My Sensei, Thomas Heriaud and his wife Pat became my “adoptive” parents and have been a very important part of my life and have been there for me through thick and thin. I had to make a choice of to attend the service in Georgia or head to New Jersey at the end of the month. It sounded as if the service in Georgia was more of a family setting so I chose New Jersey later in the month. I hope my flowers arrived ok, I have never sent them so far away before. I also held a moment of silence in all 8 of my classes over the past two days and placed this small Memorial of Soke Murphy in the lobby of my school for all to see. As I told all of them, Soke Murphy will live forever through the patch we wear. Pictures of this Memorial will be posted on my site, www.dojodynamics.com with in the next day or so. May you find comfort in the support and thoughts we have for all of you.
Shihan Scott A. Francis
Dojo Dynamics
Sandwich, IL.
Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/12/07 12:21 PM

To set the RECORD STRAIGHT:
____________________________________________________________

Since you, Mr. Chris Chavez, have refused to answer my call, WE feel the urgent need to address your continual dis-information to the public. You conveniently and purposefully left out significant information, such as, why this meeting initially took place including who attended it ... Shihan Dean Ansari, Maria McCarthy, Shihan Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano (me), Vico M. Viggiano (my son),....... and you.

Isn't it interesting how you contacted Shihan Ansari that morning (3-9-07) and somehow convinced him that YOU were friends with me when we had a falling out many years ago. Somehow, true to your character, ... you pushed your way into this meeting, which I coordinated and which originally was intended for just Shihan Dean and myself ... you said very few words but continually received at least 3 phone calls, one from another former student of mine and friend of yours, Carl Wighart, ... it was quite evident that you & your buddies were there just to find out information.

You sat in awe as I displayed over 75 original pictures, patches,and personal letters with Soke Murphy's hand written notes to me. As one of Soke Murphy's personal apprentice's since 1981, he had continually entrusted me with certain artifacts to protect ... and I will.

Getting to the Poem that you posted, Shihan Ansari wanted to share with me a very personal letter from Soke, originally over the phone, then in person, a poem that Soke did indeed cherish ... (along with the multitude of other favorite works that he referred to and collected throughout the years). Since Shihan Dean was not going to be able to attend Soke's Memorial Service ... I told him that I will read it as his personal contribution in honor of Soke. This along with a large book containing pertinent documents that Dean had collected from his association with Soke was given to us in confidence to archive. We passed on to Shihan Dean current History on how the system has evolved with the continual help and blessings from Soke from the early 1980's to present including pictures, documents, and a DVD.

Soke Murphy's original system and his ideas, teachings and methods changed over his lifetime ... as he sought refinement.

Your instruction from Soke was very limited ... when you and your buddies wanted to continue to train in The System after he was in retirement, he told you "Study with Shihan Viggiano".

In conclusion Mr. Chavez:
As Martial Artists ... a Code of Ethics was set forth and vowed to. You have done practically nothing to preserve, promote and perpetuate Soke Murphy's Teachings ... except to seek only your personal needs and ego. This display of arrogance is not acceptable and will not be tolerated by us or anyone else true to Soke Murphy.

This IS a time of mourning, reflection, refinemnt of ourselves, and rebirth ...

With deepest Respect, Honor, and Loyalty to Soke Murphy, His Family, All the Faithful Students and those to come:

Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano - Shihan/Shifu
Representative for:
*Isshin Shorihji Ryu Okinawa-Te
*Shen Wu Dao Martial & Healing Arts
*Sword Stick Society International
*Master Jou, Tsung Hwa Tai Chi Memorial Park

Vico M. Viggiano
*Digital Archiver

Anthony Fiore, ESQ
(approved)
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/12/07 01:36 PM

Shihan Viggiano,

Understanding that this time is difficult for everyone on and off the list I request that the information posted on this forum remain in memory of Soke and his works. I know of bits and pieces of what has transpired and ask that any outbursts be directed to the individual person until after the memorial...

I have written you off the list thanking you for your efforts and teachings. I have also received emails back from you which were informative and inviting. However, I do not enjoy seeing my name dragged into a continuing battle you have… Please email me off the list at cwighardt@verizon.net if you have any questions about this or you can call me on my cell (will give it to you through an email request of same)… In the meantime, it is my understanding that Chris was asked to go to the meeting the night before it occurred and through a conversation he had with one of the attendees.

As you stated “This IS a time of mourning, reflection, refinemnt of ourselves”.

Carl
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/12/07 02:30 PM

I would first like to appologize to everyone on this site for this horrific display.

I would also like to appologize to Laura for saying something that was not my place to mention. As I said to Laura on the phone, after reading the poem I was moved and saddened and wrote something that I should not have but it was not planned, it was all driven by emotion. I just wanted to share something with all of you that never met Soke Murphy nor would attend the memorial. My deepest appologies for that mistake.

Af for Viggiano, this is an old rift that I thought to be over, as I had mentioned to Sensei Ansari. For me it was truly over and had looked forward to future meetings with Viggiano.
Chris, I tried calling you 4 times yesterday and got a busy signal. I have a life, you are not my priority nor my teacher, I do not owe you any explanation. Please refrain from posting inaccurate statements, all you are doing is showing your stripes. If you would like to contact me to finally end this ridiculous dispute and as long as you don't act like my superior I would be glad to talk to you, as I had originally thought this to be over. Lets remember Sensei with love and friendship not hate and anger.

CHRIS CHAVEZ
Posted by: Lockjaw

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/12/07 04:12 PM

Chris Chavez,
I am posting this admonition to you without the advice or support of anyone else.My only motivation is to help preserve what tranquility there is for us so soon after losing Mr. Murphy.
This should be a time of reflection and introspection, not a time for hashing out old problems.Your lack of proper respect for Shihan Viggiano on a public thread is despicable.I don't know you or whatever rank or position you feel you hold in this universe, but be clear on one thing.You must cease the provocation and stand down at this time.Don't do it for me, you don't even know me.Do it for those who are still transitioning from mourning a loss to celebrating a wonderful life.Your personal politics aren't important at this time.
It is so obvious to me at this moment that you learned nothing about the man and his approach to life.I hope you come to understand that Soke always thought in terms of a family, or Kazoku.There is no need for this conflict in our family.Feel free to PM me if you wish.If you have further dispute please bring it


James Stedman
Black Belt
Isshin-Shorinji-ryu Okinawa-Te

(352) 428 1684
EMAIL Lockjaw62@bellsouth.net
Posted by: SenseiWolf

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/14/07 09:50 AM

Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano - Shihan/Shifu,
I am going to take a shot in the dark here and address this to you since you contacted me first, but it is open to the entire community. I have been contacted off this site by several of you and I appreciate the interest and I am looking forward to the upcoming journey to NJ, but wish it were under different circumstances.
The information I seek is of 3 categories.
The first is the time is getting closer and I am starting to plan my trip from the Chicago community. I had originally received an offer from you for a place to stay for an evening or two. I had responded to you off line but havent heard back from you. A hotel will be fine if the original offer is not available. If you or anyone can suggest a place to stay close to where the memorial will be, that would be great. It will be me and one of my students and we will be driving to NJ and expect to arrive Friday night some time, but I can rearrange things depending on what is going on there and when.
Secondly, I am also looking for details such as times and location and what might be on the agenda. I won’t be in town for long and want to make the most of the time while I am there and meet as many of you and spend time with you as possible. So what I would like to know is if someone could fill me in and keep me posted on any changes and also provide a contact for me to call when I get into town.
Thirdly, I have been following the blog recently and my awareness has been heightened. I would like to know what I am walking into and also want to tell you what I am there for. I read a lot of energy that is not surprising at a time like this, but I thought much of it would wait out of respect for Soke Murphy. Some of Soke Murphy’s last words written were “I did not "pass of the REINS" I simply opened the corral gate to let loose a few fresh horses in the hope they might partner with a few good riders.” Being a descendant of Master Chapman’s and Master Heriaud’s, we never really looked at all of the political pieces that much. We learned, competed at national levels, learned, taught what we had learned and learned some more. Many of us have studied many different styles and have incorporated what each of us found useful to our individual theories. None of us were ever told we were wrong, just different. We have continued on with what was handed to us by those founding fathers and have not limited ourselves to one theory. To me the Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa Te system represented just that. We have grown and excelled because of that.
So, I must state my purpose clearly of coming to NJ. I am coming to honor one of the men that set the ball in motion. Master Chapman was a pioneer in his time as well, but his life was taken early on in a car accident. John Shafer and Tom Heriaud took the reigns on our end and eventually it was all carried on Tom Heriaud's shoulders by himself. Both of them had made several journeys to NJ to visit Soke Murphy through the years. Tom Heriaud is still active in our community, just not currently teaching. Our community has not had any contact with Soke Murphy since the late 80’s, early 90’s. Our community has continued to grow. We have developed our family and continued on despite the lack of contact. I personally tried to find Soke Murphy as few as 2 years ago, with no luck. We will continue to grow despite the struggles you, our cousins, may face. We dealt with this kind of loss with the passing of Master Chapman, founder of the Academy of the Martial Arts and friend of Soke Murphy in the early 70’s.
If I am having these concerns, I can only imagine that others may be as well. I ask that this be cleared up for all of us by strictly addressing the memorial and events around this event. I also ask that you be aware that this blog is open to anyone to read. Please keep this intention, before any further postings in regards to anything other than the memorial. I also recommend preserving this as it was before Soke Murphy’s passing, as an informational trade and a safe place for all of us to come together. Maybe a separate closed communication can be developed, or address each other face to face, or at the very least through your personal e-mails. Mine is listed below.
I am strictly coming to honor Soke Murphy, his family and members of this extended family that I feel a part of. I want to be clear that I want nothing, seek nothing and plan on leaving with only what I brought with me and the friendships and relationships I have gained through this visit. If this is acceptable, I would like to continue to plan on this journey. I hope to hear from any of you soon. It is difficult through this computer screen to know who to listen to and who to “trust”, but I am coming carrying my own flag and until given a reason not to, I am impartial and will be attending as such.
I hope to hear from you soon.
Shihan Scott A. Francis
Academy Of The Martial Arts
Dojo Dynamics
Sandwich, IL.
senseifrancis@dojodynamics.com
Posted by: cappuccio

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/14/07 07:35 PM

I am a senior instructor of Shihan/Shifu Chris Viggiano, and I have been aware of these issues concerning this art. For over ten years I, and all students, have been given the wonderful gift of the teachings of Soke Murphy. This seems to be a typical struggle for power. But, to what end? The unknown hermit can achieve the same strength of body, mind, and spirit as the famous master. The job of Grandmaster is to transmit all of the knowledge of the Master before him, and see that the moral and ethical codes of the system are adhered to. Anyone seeking the title should examine their hearts and ask themselves if they possess the knowledge and spirit of their master to carry on his dream. If this can not be attained, then the essence of Soke Murphy will have passed with his worldly existence.
Posted by: cappuccio

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/14/07 07:53 PM

I am a senior instructor of Shihan/Shifu Chris Viggiano, and I have been aware of these issues concerning this art. For over ten years I, and all students, have been given the wonderful gift of the teachings of Soke Murphy. This seems to be a typical struggle for power. But, to what end? The unknown hermit can achieve the same strength of body, mind, and spirit as the famous master. The job of Grandmaster is to transmit all of the knowledge of the Master before him, and see that the moral and ethical codes of the system are adhered to. Anyone seeking the title should examine their hearts and ask themselves if they possess the knowledge and spirit of their master to carry on his dream. If this can not be attained, then the essence of Soke Murphy will have passed with his worldly existence. Representative for: Shen Wu Dao Martial and Healing Arts, Everspring Internal Arts, Sword Stick Society International, Master Jou, Tsung Hwa Tai Chi Memorial Park
Posted by: Robert_Wood

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/14/07 09:11 PM

I would first like to extend my prayers to Soke Murphy's family in this time of physical loss. I believe he has returned home after a long accomplished journey. I'm one of Shihan/Shifu Chris Viggiano's senior students and have studied with him since 1992. I have indirectly learned volumes from Soke Murphy through Dr. Viggiano. During my study under Dr. Viggiano, he has always kept the purity of the Martial Arts and what they stand for, mainly evolution of ones' self; body, mind and soul. I have trained many individuals and groups in exercise and martial arts, and now am a Doctor of Chiropractic. I would not be the man I am today without the help and guidence of my lifetime Instructor and friend Dr. Chris Viggiano. Furthermore, all of this nonsense of fighting for supremecy and recognition of titles in this art is degrading the art itself and the people who are indulging in it. The focus should be on Soke Murphy's philosopy and what he strived so hard to teach. The indivuals who are still teaching his philosophy and the ones' who have done nothing know who they are. Time will reveal both.
Representative of:
*Isshin Shorihji Ryu Okinawa-Te
*Shen Wu Dao Martial and Healing Arts
*Sword Stick Societ International
*Master Jou, Tsung Hwa Tai Chi Memorial Park
Posted by: D_Royce

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/15/07 07:00 PM

Well said Sensei Wolf!
And the rest of you people should be ashamed of yourselves!
Your teacher passed away and you all fight like it was a multi-million dollar inheritence.
I sympathize with Mr. Murphy's family and friends and think the rest of you should shut your mouth and take it off the list.
This was a great thread and I looked forward to the next bit of wisdom from Mr. Murphy.
I was upset to read that he was no longer with us.
I found sadness turn into tranquility after reading some of the heartfelt posts to his family.
My heart was lightened to know others felt such a strong connection to this man but now see it all give way to garbage.

Please continue to post the history of this style and all that is relevant to its study.
Continue to post thanks and prayers to his family.
But above all please respect this man and his teachings by stopping this childish behavior.
Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 03/28/07 09:16 AM

Greetings ...

The Memorial Tribute to the Life of Soke Robert L. Murphy
will be held this coming Saturday March 31, 2007 from 11:00 - 4:00 pm at the:

Master Jou, Tsung Hwa Tai Chi Memorial Park
818 Rt.23, Wantage, NJ 07461

___________________________________________________________

If you plan on attending please contact us so that we can prepare accordingly. Keep in mind that this service will be held outside, the weather forecast looks good in the low 60's. Wear comfortable shoes ... we will be walking a little. You will park your car accross the street at the Wantage Elementary School.
___________________________________________________________

To help preserve, perpetuate, and promote the Teaching's and Life's Work of Soke Robert L. Murphy,
kindly make donations to the:

Robert L. Murphy Memorial Fund

Available at any Bank of America, or contact
Laura Farren (Murphy) at: laura 1001@comcast.net
___________________________________________________________

The Murphy Family and extended Martial Arts Family of Isshin Shorinji Ryu thank all of you for your continual thoughts, prayers and support ...


Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano - Shihan/Shifu
Representative for:
The Soke Robert L. Murphy Family

shihancv@comcast.net
908.852.4829
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 04/02/07 05:24 PM

Amen.

Not that it would be any better if it were over a multimillion dollar inheritence.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 04/03/07 02:44 PM

I want to thank Soke Murphy for all of his teachings both directly and indirectly as I will forever be in his debt… I also want to thank Soke’s family for allowing me to share in their time with him.

I also wanted to thank Chris Viggiano, his students and colleagues for holding the memorial. It was very nice to get together with Soke’s students again, as well as to meet some for the first time… In addition, I enjoyed hearing Soke Murphy’s voice again.

And to add a question to the forum, I would like clarification as to who is teaching Isshinshorinji… It is my understanding that there are several schools out there teaching under the Isshinshorinji name. Those being:
*Dojo Dynamics in Sandwich Il. – Shihan Scott Francis
*Chirico’s School of Karate in Cartaret, NJ – Ralph Chirico

Schools That I cannot confirm that are teaching Isshinshorinji:
*Dragon Fire Acedemy of Martial Arts in Aurora Il - Hercul Brown

Schools that have in the past and may still be teaching the Isshinshorinji core curriculum:
*Bushido Karate & Yoga Fitness Center in Hillsdale NJ – Al & Anita Santucci

I know there are several other people out there instructing personally but unsure of its extent (i.e. Tim Steward in NJ – teaching privately, Rod Lindgren in Wyoming – not actively teaching?, Charles Cusamano in MA – not actively teaching?, Gary Vincent in Fla starting his classes again, I am teaching a small group privately and under no specific name, etc…)… I am unsure where to put Chris Viggiano as he was teaching the core system under “American Bushido” but has since merged with the sword/stick society (Chris, are you still teaching American Bushido?)…. Dean Ansari is also teaching privately in NJ.

Anyone else teaching please post it here (privately or publicly)… Any changes to the above please post them here.

And lastly, Jeff (AKA Ronin), did anyone get back to you regarding the information you sought (founder of Isshinshorinji)?

Carl
Posted by: SenseiWolf

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 04/04/07 12:13 AM

Hello My New Friend and Brother,

I have so much to say and do not know where to start. I will start here with a brief note and then I will write my thoughts and e-mail them to anyone who might want to read about my trip to NJ. This is Scott Francis speaking on behalf of myself and Ben Ruzick.
I would simply like to express the feeling of sincere gratitude. Thank you to all the new friends and family we met over the weekend. Thank you to Chris for a very nice memorial and lining me up a place to stay with Bob and Joan. Also thank you for welcoming in, inviting me to be a part of the reading and demonstrations. Thanks to Bob and Joan for a beautiful comfortable home to rest my head for an evening. Thanks to Chris, Tim, Gary and Carl for a nice dinner and great company to talk about our pasts with. Thank you to the Murphy family who made me feel right at home. I have so much more to say but at this time I will keep it to the thank you’s. I appreciate each and every one of you and feel connected to my new brother and sisterhood.
To answer your question Carl, I can tell you in detail any information that you would like in regards to the general listing I am giving you on this site. Just ask away and I can hook you up with contact information on anyone you might choose.

Sandwich, IL. Dojo Dynamics…..Head Instructor…..Scott Francis
Aurora, IL. YMCA…..Head Instructor…..Jim White.
Aurora, IL. Browns Dragon Fire…..Head Instructor…..Hercle Brown.
Aurora, IL. Fox Valley Park District…..Head Instructor…..David Carr
Plano, IL. Fox Valley YMCA…..Head Instructor…..Jack Walleck
Plainfield, IL. Plainfield Park District…..Head Instructor…..Bob Beghtol

This does not include anyone that might be teaching out of their basement or garage. These are all my brothers under Master Heriaud and we are all with in a 30 mile radius of each other. Each of us has our own personal touch but we all hold the Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa Te as our foundation. We all gather every year or so for a large promotion that I may host, so I will let you know the next time we will get together which will be this September sometime and everyone from the NJ family will be more than welcome if you should choose. I will keep you posted on all of that as well.

Thanks again Carl and hope to see you or hear from you again soon.

Scott Francis
Posted by: Lockjaw

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 04/04/07 02:38 PM

To all those who have been posting here, greetings.
Several weeks ago (3/12/07) I posted here while in a fit of anger and grief concerning a fellow karateka, Mr. Chris Chavez.My reaction to some previous posts was inappropriate and lacked considered judgment.I acted poorly regardless of my good intentions.I had no right then or now to judge Mr. Chavez.
I. like all of you, was feeling out of sorts and took offense to a percieved threat to the peace here.I was wrong.
Please know that I very much regret the entire incident.

Peace to all.

Fraternally,
Jim Stedman
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 04/05/07 10:55 PM

Thank you very much for the kind words Mr. Stedman. For me our private converations were enough but this speaks volumes of your character as a man.

Want to also acknowledge the great work that was done at the memorial. Very nicely done.

As for our brothers from Illinois. So great to have met you guys. I just wish we would have had more time. Hope we can all meet again in the future.

Chris Chavez
Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 04/07/07 08:44 PM

Gracious Appreciations & Thanks ...
____________________________________________________________

I, Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano, thank Mrs. Carol Murphy, daughters Laura & Tara, the four grandchildren and the immediate family for allowing me the opportunity to coordinate and present to you and to the Isshin Shorinji Ryu Community, the Memorial Tribute to your beloved husband, father & grandfather and to my most admirable teacher and good friend ... Soke Robert. L. Murphy.
____________________________________________________________

This task involved many wonderful people behind the scenes which I need to acknowledge publicly:

The Viggiano Family:

Jacqueline, my wife: Who has always been there throughout my professional Martial Arts Career, sacrificing everything, especially in the early days starting in 1980 when our dates often consisted of me getting numerous 3 hour private lessons from Sensei Murphy, for years ... they were priceless, as you are.

Vico Viggiano (1st son): Your documentary filming and editing skills are superb. You are on your way to making yourself a caring, detailed doctor ...

Luke Viggiano (2nd son): You are the next generation of excellent martial artists as you teach in your school your own unique way, never forgetting your roots of Isshin Shorinji.

Matthew Viggiano (3rd son): Your ability to capture still pictures and the editing of them are outstanding.

Vance Viggiano (4th son): Your artistic ability to sketch and convey the Martial Arts is a gift.

Thank you, my family, for endlessly helping with the preparation and decoration for this and every other event that we have year after year.
____________________________________________________________

My Students:

Alphabetically:

Shifu/Sensei Andy Cappuccio : for designing and creating the magnificent Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Sign to be placed at the dedicated area for Sensei called ... Soke Murphy Sanctuary. Also, for preparing the Chinese Family Sword with the "Essence" of Soke.
Sensei Mark Cochran : for always contributing to the food and helping in training the demo team.
Sensei Dan Flaherty : for representing the NJ State Police Troopers and being an integral part of the guard and the USMC Flag Ceremony.
Sensei Anthony Fiore : for being an "Arrow in my Quiver" providing legal counsel ... and a warm Dojo.
Sensei/Shifu Eric Levenstein : for the PA system and training the demo team.
Sensei Raphael Senzamici : for securing the Isshin Shorinji Ryu Memorial Website, the memorial booklets, the Soke Murphy Posters and the unending help with graphics & design.
Sensei Dr. Robert Wood : for helping in training the demo team and The Sword Stick Society International Members.
Sensei J. Young : for standing guard representing the Army Special Forces and being an integral part of the USMC Flag Ceremony ... and for giving generous donations and your personal Bowl that you crafted and gave to the Murphy Family.

Special thanks to fellow students and teachers for there help in preparation: Shihan Dean Ansari & Marie, Shihan Steve Lundquist, Jim Smith, Sensei Tim Steward, and Bob Thompson.
____________________________________________________________

Master Jiang, Jian-Ye : long time friend, for the most beautiful calligraphy of Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te, that we presented to the Murphy Family.
____________________________________________________________

Shifu Bruce LaCarrubba : for allowing us year after year for me, my family, and our mutual students, to beautify and enjoy The Master Jou, Tsung Hwa Tai Chi Memorial Park ... and to hold our Tribute to Soke Murphy there. They were very close friends in the past ... now they are together once again.
____________________________________________________________

Dr. John Hsi Lee - Shifu : for graciously donating the Chinese Murphy Family Sword produced from your company, ITG, at the Dragon Well Forge, China ... it will be an heirloom and cherished forever.

Mataw Guro Luis Lledo - Shihan, Guro Mark Lledo, Kathy Lledo : for representing the Filipino & Japanese Martial Arts, and for being such a dear friend and co-founder & director of Sword Stick Society International, an organization where we can merge our talents in honor of our teachers.
____________________________________________________________

Shifu Mei Jin Lu : for conducting such a beautiful honorable private blessing for the Murphy Family and The Murphy Family Sword ... you are our continual Spiritual Guide. Xie Xie ...
____________________________________________________________

For all those that came forward to demonstrate, read a poem, or give a personal experience about Soke Murphy ... your sincerity was greatly appreciated ... especially Shihan Scott Francis and his student Ben who ventured from Illinois to represent a link from the past to us.

For those that came from near and far, and for those that could not make it ... your warm wishes were felt.
____________________________________________________________

In conclusion ... we, along with the Murphy Family plan to have a yearly Isshin Shorinji gathering in Honor of Soke Murphy and His Teachings. Our first year will be sometime in August 2008 ... this will be fitting since it will be the 40th Anniversary of the inception of the Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te System by our beloved Founder, Soke Robert L. Murphy.
____________________________________________________________


With warmest regards, appreciation & Honor ... and for the continual preservation, promotion, & perpetuation of the Martial & Healing Arts,

Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano - Shihan/Shifu
* Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Kazoku: Family Representative
* Shen Wu Dao Martial & Healing Arts: Founder & Director
* Sword Stick Society International: Founder & Director
* Master Jou, Tsung Hwa Tai Chi Memorial Park: Founder & Director
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 04/12/07 06:45 PM

My fellow brothers,

I'm having an interesting conversation with a fellow martial artist. The topic came up as to the stories behind the Katas... I was wondering what stories everyone has about the history of their Kata (i.e. Chinto being fought on a bridge by a thief etc...).

Also, I am curious as to what forms everyone is practicing.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 04/13/07 03:48 PM

This is a wonderful kata/pumse cross-reference:

http://www.geocities.com/david_a_hacker/MartialArts/matab.html

This site contains articles that have appeared in the Journal of Asian Fighting Arts (theoretically I guess that makes them peer-reviewed). It's one of the few martial-arts magazines I like to read, and there are loads of historical information there:

http://www.practical-martial-arts.co.uk/practical_karate/index.html

This Isshinryu page has a lot of neat information about kata:

http://www.arikah.com/encyclopedia/Isshin_Ryu

And here is a wonderful site about the evolution of kata and karate styles in general:

http://www.kojosho.com/info_center_articles.htm

Of course, the question follows: How accurate are the above? I'd appreciate anyone's thoughts.

I suppose this isn't really an answer to your question, and that much of the information on the above sites won't be much of a revelation to anyone here, but that's the best I can do!
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 04/14/07 09:58 AM

Thanks Chris,

The first link has a very informative chart for cross reference!
Now I know there are a lot more people viewing this forum. So STOP SITTING ON THE SIDELINES!!!... The water is fine, everyone here are friends and the "infighting" is OVER!!!

Peace,
Brother Carl
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 04/18/07 11:49 AM

Briefly, I’d like to address a rumor I’ve heard about myself— several people, I’m told, are under the impression that I’m writing a book about Isshin Shorinjiryu or Soke Murphy.

I’d like to think that I’m capable of writing a book, and of convincing a publisher to advance me enough cash to do it justice. Moreover, I’d like to think I’m qualified to write a book about Soke Murphy or Isshin Shorinjiryu.

This would all be wishful thinking on my part. I’m under no illusions— I don’t have a book in me, I have no connections to any book publishers, and I am woefully short of the expertise necessary to adequately write anything definitive about Soke Murphy (who I was not fortunate enough to meet, either by phone or in person) or the art he created.

To reiterate some earlier posts: In 1987 I moved from the Aurora area (where my instructor taught) to Carbondale, about six hours away. By 1990 my parents moved to Chicago, an hour or more from Aurora— and if traffic is bad, far more than an hour. Thus I haven’t had a chance to advance in the style in many years, but by 2004 or so I just decided, well, I can at least work on the paper my instructor used to require for shodan, and maybe learn more about the history or evolution of the style.

Well, I tracked down a few people (with a lot of help from this forum), did some interviews, and transcribed them. But I realized that transcriptions take impossibly long for me to do, and I can't afford to pay court reporters to do it for me. There was too much great information to edit down, however, and the more people with whom I spoke, the more additional people interviewees mentioned who I felt I needed to find and include in the project.

Meanwhile, I discovered that the thesis requirement is no longer in place with my instructor, who's retired anyway. So at this point I’m really just satisfying my own curiousity, and hoping I can help preserve some memories about an art that has become quite important to me. I have no agenda beyond that.

As I do these interviews, I’m absolutely amazed at how many wonderful people Soke Murphy attracted— or how wonderful he helped to make them. It’s been a delightful process.

After Soke Murphy's death, I halted the project. I'd like to restart it in a few weeks, after I get better phone-recording equipment and more stable recording software.

In any event, when I feel I've made enough headway I'll probably just MP3 the recordings and post them online, along with the transcriptions I have completed, for anyone to access.

I hope this makes everyone in our community more comfortable returning my calls!

Please keep posting information about the style, memories of Soke Murphy, and whatever else we can to preserve and build upon an art that I think we can all agree deserves far wider recognition.
Posted by: daughterofsoke

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 04/19/07 10:04 AM

To Chris, his wife Jackie, sons Vico, Luke, Matthew, and Vance:

On behalf of my family, no words could express our deep gratitude for all you have done in honoring the memory of my father. The memorial service was a beautiful, moving tribute to the husband, father, grandfather, founder and teacher of the system, as well as, friend to many. Chris, your unwavering loyalty and friendship to my father gave him great joy in his life as you grew as a martial artist and as a person. Your hard work, dedication to the art and feelings for my father were evident in every aspect of the memorial service and it did not go unnoticed by anyone that attended.

Jackie, I appreciate all your hard work in front of and behind the scenes. You truly are Chris’ soulmate and you lift him up. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting him and our family during this difficult time. I know I took a lot of time away from your family during the weeks that followed my father’s death and I appreciate all your kind words and understanding.

As for the boys, and forgive me, they have turned into fine young men, time goes by so quickly, I remember Vico and Luke when they were just babies over at my parents house. They did an outstanding job preparing for, during, and after the memorial. My father bragged about their individual talents and those talents shone through during this time. My father would be proud of each and every one of you. He spoke highly of each of your talents and we (my father and I) actually planned on “recruiting” all four of you to help us with the projects we were preparing.

To the students: The memorial would not have happened without your commitment and artistic contributions to my father’s memorial. I am not sure how many of you actually met my father, but no matter, I am deeply appreciative that you would take time from your lives to participate at the level you did for a man you may or may not have met. That shows my family the level of commitment to the martial arts you have and that my father touched each of your lives in some direct or indirect way. The sword, the dedicated area for my father, the hand painted plaque that hung from the tree showed outstanding talent…you have my heartfelt thank you for all that each and every one of you contributed. These are memories that will last and items that will be cherished and passed down for many generations to come. One thing I can say with certainty about my father...he admired talent in people.

An event like this makes you look into yourself and wonder, “what will I have to leave behind when I go? What will people remember me for?” I don’t have the answer to that question for myself, but I have a poster hanging in my son Kyle’s room that says, “30 years from now, it won’t matter what shoes you wore, how your hair looked, or the brand of jeans you bought. What will matter is what you learned and how you used it”. My father left a legacy behind that I am proud of and one that has touched many people. Often times we take for granted what we have until it’s gone, but he left something behind for his family to carry on, and for the many students who my father had shared his knowledge with. It gives my family peace to know that my father will be remembered.

In closing, Chris, I mentioned to you many times that my father and I were planning “great” things to continue the system he created and he was both inspired and enthusiastic at pursuing them. The spark had been ignited again.
Now with his passing, I feel it imperative to continue the work he and I set out to do and it would be an honor to have you, Chris, and your family, be a part of that plan.

Many thanks,
Laura Murphy Farren
Daughter of Soke Robert L. Murphy
Posted by: SenseiWolf

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 06/13/07 03:41 PM

Hello to my Isshin Shorinji Family,
This is Scott Francis and i have not fallen off the edge of the earth. Before i came out to NJ, i knew my brother was sick and was going to be needing a kidney transplant, but he never made it that far. So, i have picked myself and brushed myself off and hope to start going through all of the e-mails and CD's and data that has been sent to me and have something for all of you shortly. I appreciate all of the support and friendships, new and old, and hope that i can be as good of a friend and support to all of you as you have me. I will be back and hopefully have some information, opinions and theories to share with you all soon.
Many thanks and dont hesitate to drop me an e-mail at senseifrancis@dojodynamics.com
Thanks again and good to be back,
Shihan Scott A. Francis
Dojo Dynamics
131 S. Wells St.
Sandwich, IL. 60548
www.dojodynamics.com
1-815-786-9296
Posted by: IIL

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 07/07/07 11:22 AM

I am an Isshinryu Practitioner.. I have heard of Sensei Murphy and am sad to learn of his passing my condolences to his family.. I am searching for old photos of Sensei Don Nagle.. if anyone could help in this matter it would be appreciated..

Matt Z.

http://www.isshinryu-is-life.com
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 09/01/07 08:22 PM

Matt:

Shihans Bohan, Nagle, and Niemira all figure into the Isshin Shorinjiryu family tree because they all apparently influenced Soke Murphy— at least the latter two did, as they are mentioned in the history of Isshin Shorinjiryu posted above that I'm now pretty sure was at least largely written by Soke Murphy.

Shihan Bohan was not mentioned in that history, although at least one of Soke Murphy's students mentioned him to me, so I'm trying to figure out where he fits into our heritage.

My question is, after returning from Okinawa and the instruction of Soke Tatsuo-o Shimabuku, did Shihan Nagle train for a time under Shihan Bohan, or vice-versa, or did they teach together? (I'm under the impression that Shihan Nagle trained under Shihan Bohan before moving to New Jersey and opening his own dojo.)

Hopefully you or others on this message board can offer the answer!
Posted by: Victor Smith

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 09/01/07 10:31 PM

Chris,

Nagle Sensei returned from Okinawan before Bohan Sensei. Niemara Sensei was one of Nagle Sensei's early students (he later switched to Bando). Bohan Sensei later established his dojo in NC. Bohan Sensei traveled extensively on the East Coast to attend almost every tournament that there was in the beginning.

Because of their times they are invariably linked, but Bohan Sensei was first.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/04/08 11:56 AM

This forum has been quiet awhile. I’ve waited for what I hope has been a respectful amount of time since Soke Murphy’s death to post here, and to resume my oral-history project.

Would forum members be interested in answering a few questions here to spark some renewed discussion? If I could be so bold as to start:

What in your opinion distinguishes Isshin Shorinjiryu from other styles or systems you studied?

Please give an idea of when and under whom you trained in the style to help chart any changes Soke Murphy or his students might have instituted!
Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/05/08 02:02 AM

Happy New Year 2008

Greetings ... fellow Isshin Shorinji Ryu practitioners and to those interested in the historical evolution of our system which was founded nearly 40 years ago.

Although the Isshin Shorinji Ryu curriculum has undergone dramatic changes throughtout the years, what has remained constant is the passion and dedication of our founder whom always searched for a more refined approach in teaching the tools of the system so that we can be adequately prepared in our personal quest for discovering the Warrior Spirit within.

As Soke would always emphasize, "Adopt & Adapt ... it is the key to survival".
____________________________________________________________

Through the erosion of the Ideals and Martial Code of Ethics throughout the organization came the sad resignation of Soke teaching publically on June 15, 1979. This is where so many think history ends ...

but, it is where another significant new horizon begins as only a handful of the original selected personal apprentices commence and commit to the revised Isshin Shorinji Ryu tenants under strict regulation ...
I was honored to be one of these few.
____________________________________________________________

Many years have gone by and much has happened behind the scenes since those early days, yet the Isshin Shorinji Ryu Philosophy, Principles & Practices remained and still are quite viable to this day.

Upon the approval by Soke Murphy, we let some of the historical pictures out to the public in 2005, especially to Shihan Gary Alexander and to Sensei Wayne Wayland. There are many more documents that in due time, with family consent, will be released.

In 2005, Sensei Wayland wanted to do a Warrior of the Month feature on our teacher, but at that time Soke Murphy was still not ready to let the past come to light.

Again, although many of you knew that the Martial Arts were his deepest passions ... it was also some of his most hurtful wounds that he did not want to re-open. As I encouraged him more and more to let his story be told, he promised to me he was ready in the fall of 2006 and he started to post on this site.

We began to organize and archive the original pictures, papers, and devised an outline for a documentary film/book, including the current revised training methods of his system Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te ...
____________________________________________________________

It is still very hard for all of us that he is not physically here. I know he would say that through tragedy comes rebirth. I vowed to him as a personal apprentice years ago to help preserve, perpetuate, and propagate these Magnificent Arts.

All of you have quite a rich background, much more than you are aware of. Be proud of your foundation and history while continually searching and striving for self-improvement. Like Soke Murphy, build bridges towards your contemporaries, regardless of their chosen style of expression ... the root is still the same.

In return, to the struggling pioneers and teachers that have gone before you ... always give something back to The Source in that the next generation can vastly benefit and add to the magnificent experiences found training in the Martial, Healing & Spiritual Arts.

In the meantime ... Train for Life.

Please remember Soke Robert L. Murphy on is birthdate
1-21-37 and give blessings to the Murphy Family.

In closing ... I want to share the words from a Christmas card from 2005 that Soke wrote to me:
" Those who love ... care.
" Those who care ... help.
" Those who help ... give joy.
" Those who give joy ... give Love".
Christmas is a reminder that every day holds a promise ...
we have only to reach out and fulfill it. Sensei ...



With Warmest Regards:

Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano - Shihan/Shifu
* Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Kazoku: Family Representative
shihancv@comcast.net

Note: Questions are welcome. With the help of fellow personal apprentices Shihan Steve Lundquist, Shihan Dean Ansari and others, we will answer what we can.
Posted by: sn7ns

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/07/08 06:14 PM

can anyone help me out. i just want to know where isshin shorin ji ryu started i also want to join an isshin shorin ji ryu school can u just tell me want u guys teach. because i from tae won do
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/09/08 01:56 PM

Below is a reply from Russ Tippett (one of Soke's long time students and personal friend)....

Happy New Year. Tried to put this up on the forum but it wouldn't let me in:
Sn7ns,
The Isshin Shorin Ji referred to in these posts was founded by Soke Murphy. It grew from Isshin Ryu and Soke's continued study of the arts.
Like all of the arts, Isshin Shorin ji was a collaboration in the family. The people Sensei trained with and the people he trained provided the questions and the answers that became the system. More kata were added, more basic technique, different requirements as Sensei continued to teach and learn. The system became quite complex as Sensei considered it essential for people understand other arts to more fully understand their own.
As people left NJ and Sensei, they took their art with them and continued to practice it as they were taught.
Sensei too continued to learn and his Isshin Shorin ji changed to reflect how he viewed the world and the art.
A review of the foregoing posts will list many of those who teach or learned the system. If you live near any of them you are in luck.

If it looks ok maybe one of you could get it up? It's a new year and time for the posts on the forum to turn to the discussion of the art, technique, etc. Our system is practiced by a very diverse group whose only bond is the art. The only way it will stay alive is through us. If we don't keep it going it may end up just another footnote in a Draeger book.
Cheers
Russ
Posted by: sn7ns

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/10/08 06:57 PM

okay thank you sir i just want know what u teach espacially
Posted by: sn7ns

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/10/08 06:58 PM

thank you wiggy i jusy want know what u teach like katas and requirments
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/10/08 08:12 PM

I live in a pretty remote area and do not teach.
Posted by: cappuccio

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/12/08 11:34 AM

I am a senior student of Dr. Viggiano, Shihan/Shifu, and have been studying with him for ten years. My experience prior to this was in Goju Karate and Tai Chi Quan. Although my former teachers were very good in their respective styles, Shihan Viggiano, through the teachings of Soke Murphy, opened up a whole new world for me. Isshin Shorinji is based on the principles of correct body structure and movement. There are only so many ways a body can strike, deflect, step, etc. Soke had the forsight to study with many great teachers and the genius to combine the skills of these many arts into Isshin Shorinji. Although I lean towards the Chinese Internal Arts and Healing aspects, I am constantly shown how all the arts are connected. A closed fisted Okinawan skill is no different than an open hand Tai Chi Quan movement. If you can open your mind to accept the inherant knowledge of mind, body and spirit that we all possess, you will have entered the door to Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okiawa Te. Andy Cappuccio, Shifu
Posted by: sn7ns

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/12/08 07:15 PM

i no u have had mr chirico as ur instrutor
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/14/08 08:01 AM

SN7NS,

Please don't take this the wrong way but I am confused as to your questions. You say that you want to know of a Isshin Shorinji school so that you may take it up but then posted that your teacher was Master Chirico... You quote from a book "Asian Fighting Arts" which to my knowledge was written in 1997 but the lead author "Draeger" is listed as having died in 1982... To me it just seems that you are trying to stir up trouble...

I ask that the moderators of this website and thread not close this thread down but monitor it closely...

It would be terribly disappointing if the thread was closed down due to someone else's ulterior motives...

Just to let others know of what I mean:
http://www.fightingarts.com/ubbthreads/s...d4#Post15978593
Posted by: MattJ

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/14/08 08:48 AM

SN7NS reads like a kid or a troll.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/14/08 10:44 AM

I have a lot of real work to do today and don't have time to offer a detailed reply to the recent string of posts.

First, I hope the moderators will keep this board open. I don't think we can put into words how valuable this forum has been in terms of documenting the system's history and in connecting students of Isshin Shorinjiryu, in some cases directly back to a long-lost soke.

I hope said students will make this an easy decision for the moderators by not engaging in personal attacks and name-calling.

If I can guess at what SN7NS's saying— and I've resisted posting this for a long time for obvious reasons— some people's research may have found a karate or kobudo style or system called Isshin Shorinjiryu on Okinawa, possibly founded by a friend of Shimabuku Tatsuo's named Nagasato. If this is true, my guess is that it's a coincidence, and that Soke Murphy did not base his system on the other, and most likely didn't even know it existed. In other words, an older book that mentions Isshin Shorinjiryu as a dropped system only indicates that the name may have been used before, not that Soke Murphy used that dropped system as a basis for his own. The version of Isshin Shorinjiryu that we study was created by Soke Murphy.
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/14/08 11:28 AM

Very well said Chris. I wish I could verify the information you have given about another Isshin ShorinJi system, I will do my own research.
There has been no name calling or personal attacks. There has been some strange contradicting statements made which I am sure many others have questions about. I do not want to have to get into a fight to protect my teacher but that has not happened or will it. No need for the moderator to get involved and no need for you to worry.
Posted by: BrianS

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/14/08 12:51 PM

As long as this thread doesn't get trolled by Snot7s it will remain open.
Posted by: sn7ns

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/14/08 03:57 PM

Please dont take this the wrong way. im a 3rd kyu u guys are probably high dans.I am not here to stir up any trouble. i just wanted information on the system.im sorry if i offened any one but one thing i dont get is that what do u mean about the thread getting trolled
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/14/08 04:09 PM

At one point I spoke with Sensei on the reference in the Draeger book, and I can confirm that there was no relation between that system and ours.

The kata that comprised the early system was a lexicon of technique practiced throughout the orient.

Sensei Chirico knew where the forms came from if SN7NS trains with him he should check in with his teacher.
Posted by: BrianS

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/14/08 06:40 PM

Quote:

Please dont take this the wrong way. im a 3rd kyu u guys are probably high dans.I am not here to stir up any trouble. i just wanted information on the system.im sorry if i offened any one but one thing i dont get is that what do u mean about the thread getting trolled




Asking information is fine,but using text chat to ask people their ranks and organizations without filling out your own bio is just wrong IMO.
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/15/08 11:06 AM

Actually, I'm just an nikyu, Sn7ns.

Please tell us more about what you've learned: Who is your instructor, which kata have you learned, what broader life lessons have martial arts taught you?

Some of us are getting older, by the way, and are not so hip anymore: "i no u have had mr chirico as ur instrutor" is not a language that many of us speak, let alone recognize! Help us to understand what you're looking for. I think if you do so you'll find many people happy to respond.
Posted by: sn7ns

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/15/08 03:35 PM



Hi,

My posts will be edited by the moderator until I learn to quit using text chat.


Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/15/08 06:10 PM

SN7NS

You ask a lot of questions and post no answers to those asked of you.

How can you expect anyone to take you seriously writing the way you do? You write like you are texting a friend and therefore I assume you are young and with minimal “life experience” compared to others on this list as ‘texting’ was non-existant when the system was started and taught.

You stated “I do agree with hoffyph isshin shorin ji ryu was a dropped system as written in Asian Fighting Arts. I have done alot of research on the creator of isshin shorin ji ryu.”….. I think that system was not created here”

If you did a lot of research on the creator of Isshin Shorinji then it is obvious that you didn’t do that good of a job because of one minor flaw in your statement “it is a dropped system”… If that is true then how did all of us come to learn of this system?... Isn’t it possible that a series of events occurred much like what Chris Wissman has posted (by the way, welcome back Chris W. and thank you for your post), indicating that someone in Okinawa close to Shimabuki created a system called Isshin Shorinji Ryu?... Do you even know that there are two other words for the name of our system after “Isshin Shorinji Ryu”?

You also stated “can anyone help me out. i just want to know where isshin shorin ji ryu started i also want to join an isshin shorin ji ryu school”…… And then you stated “alright chris why dont u talk to my instrutor mr Chirico”

Are you a student of Master Chirico’s or not? And if so then why are you asking these questions?... How is it that you quote being a student of Master Chirico and have not commented on his beliefs on this topic?... Does he feel the way you do?.... Does he know you are posting here and using his name?.... Is he behind what you are asking?... I would think the answer to all of the above is a firm NO!...

And lastly, you stated “I am not here to stir up any trouble. i just wanted information on the system”….. “so get yo facts right”.

Doesn’t sound like someone just looking for information. Just sounds like someone who can’t keep his stories straight…. And to reply to your ‘get yo facts right’ comment. If the book was revised, then they did a poor job in ‘fact checking’ themselves or you just assumed the two names were the same and didn't bother to see that we are talking about a system called “Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa Te”.

I would like to hear more about the system founded by Nagasato.

And I want to thank Chris Viggiano for his sharing of Soke Murphy’s thoughts.

Carl
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/19/08 12:46 PM

I have studied the system for quite a few years. When I last spent time with Soke we worked on quite a few forms. While he had at that point distilled the system to four hand forms, we practiced many others, for remedial reasons, if nothing else. IE, you can teach this to prepare them or give them an understanding of that. So among the many hand forms I have learned I have four that are the foundation of my art. Sensei gave them modern english names as Isshin Shorinji has evolved into an American system. The names for those 4 forms are: Three Pillars, Four Points Eight Lights, Honored Masters, and Pheonix Dragon. The puzzle for me is which name belongs to which form. Can anybody tie these names back to the foundation forms?
Please excuse me if I am speaking out of turn. In the end this should be about this system and our Sensei. Only the family can keep the system alive.
Soke said the art was a theme in variation. As each of us adds our experience to the system, it grows. I don't think he felt the system should be frozen in time. He said here that he turned a number of horses loose to find other riders. Those of you that ride know that a horse provides the raw material that can be shaped into many disciplines from reining and roping to dressage, or jumping. It is the pairing that leads to the outcome. So long as the pair is happy the outcome is correct. So there is no wrong answer.
Any help you can give me with my question will be appreciated.
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/19/08 08:07 PM

WOW that is a great question. I know he told me but if my head wasn't attached I would forget that too. I believe that the four form that he always said to be the most important were(and please excuse the spelling): Sanshin, Seuchin or Shiohi, Shinto and Sunsu. He always called Sunsu the ultimate form as it had everything that was needed. I can not remember if it was Seuchin or Shiohi, my money is on Seuchin but it can't hurt to have both.

I am going to take an educated guess and hope someone could confirm, think that Four Points would be Sanchin, Three Pillars would be Shinto, Phoenix Dragon be Seuchin and Honored Masters be Sunsu. THIS IS JUST AN EDUCATED GUESS as each name has a connection to the movements and his ideas.

Do you remember Carl?
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/20/08 11:44 AM

I'll give you one: Four Points, Eight Lights is Shiho hai.(sp)
I think Three Pillars (Metamorphosis) is Sanchin, both refer to the triad: heaven earth and man. A dedicated practice of the form will change you. I am likely wrong on this, but give me credit for logic.
I agree that Honored Masters is likely Sunsu as that was Grand Master Shimabuku's nickname. I don't remember if that was also Master Nagle's form. Both Sensei's teachers. There are a couple of stories about Chinto (originally a Shorin kata). While the predominant story is of the ship wrecked sailor who beat Matsumura. I seem to recall an interpretation about the movement of a dragon which I may have mixed with another form we practiced (Sunseru).
I believe that when Shimabuku was promoted to master he was judged on Chinto. Tatsuo Soke Shimabuku's given name means dragon. Phoenix could refer to the new system rising from Isshin.
Although we spent a good deal of time on Seiuchin I did not think that it was essential. The basics introduced in Seiuchin ie the horse stance, and much of the technique is seen in Shiho and the others. Again I could be wrong.
What do you think?
Anyone?
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/20/08 05:53 PM

Sounds good to me. We at least have one with honored masters. I am sure that if you emailed Tim he could tell you with more assurance. I thought he had written it down.
Posted by: cappuccio

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/20/08 07:50 PM

January 21st is the birthday of Soke Robert L. Murphy, Founder and Grandmaster of Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa Te. To celebrate this day, light a candle, meditate, burn incense. Perform your favorite kata. This is a form of meditation unto itself, as we must be in the moment, expressing every movement through our heart, breath and intention. In the words of Soke Murphy, "Make the movement your own, Live it, Breath it." Your favorite will most likely be your best. Your best will be the kata that you don't have to think about. Therefore, your thoughts will not be scattered, movements will flow, and your technique will be powerful. Offer this as your gift. The spirit of this action will not be lost, and thank the man who formed our Kazoku and created the Ryu of Isshin Shorinji Okinawa Te. Andy Cappuccio, Shifu
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/20/08 10:50 PM

Actually I've spoken with Tim about this. No joy.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/21/08 08:51 AM

Yes, Soke broke the forms down to 4 ‘non weapon’ ones. He stated that you only need these in order to be a good practitioner. He stated there was nothing wrong with practicing all the other forms but mentioned that they were very repetitive and these 4 were the ones that worked on the basics…. The forms being Chinto (for the moving in and out of a straight line, balance, and a lot of ‘cat’ stance), Shiohi (for the punching and horse stance), Sanchin Dai (for strengthening and horse stance), and Sunsu (I forget for the time being why he liked sunsu other than it was a basic form of his and possibly one of his favorites)…. Soke also spoke of needing to include a weapon form (Bo 3 and 5’ jo form) and a tai-chi form to be well rounded but strongly emphasized the first 4 forms.

I was not personally told of the new names by Soke but knew he was going to change to ‘English’ names eventually…. However, I have spoken with several senior students and they have agreed upon the following:

Three Pillars = Sanchin Dai (due to everything being done in threes and the ‘pillar’ meaning strength
Four Points, Eight Lights = Shiohi (due to the four directions of striking, unsure about the eight lights at this time as I am writing this on the fly.)
Honored Masters = Sunsu (tied in strongly with Shimabuku)
Pheonix Dragon = Chinto (I assume because it entails the dragon tail essential in it… again at work and have to be quick).

Hope that helps.
Posted by: drjass

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/21/08 09:25 AM

On this the Birthday of Soke Murphy lets please take a moment in your day to say Thanks for all that he taught, The knowledge he passed on, and the WAY he showed to all.
Many thanks to his family for sharing him with the world.

I wish happiness To all those who have guided me thru my studies and help in guiding me in the WAY.
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/21/08 10:15 AM

That seems quite reasonable. Sunsu was the form that Shimabuku developed so yes it was very much tied to him. The weapon forms or armed methods Soke retained/added were: Bo Tokumi, Urashi, and Shiishi plus Jo, Jo Jusan, sanjuichi, and Muso Shinto Ryu. I stuck with the bo and worked the oar but never did any of the Jo forms with him.
For those of you that don't have pictures of Soke, I don't know if this will work, but I have tried to add a picture here of Soke circa 1968. / [image]Users/Monster/Desktop/russ.jpg[/image]
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/21/08 10:35 AM

That didn't work too well. If all else fails try reading the directions. Then do it right:
Posted by: Robert_Wood

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/21/08 03:09 PM

I would like to pay my respects to Soke Robert L. Murphy on his birthday. I am a senior student and have studied under Shihan Viggiano in the Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa Te system for approximately 14 years. Although I did not study directly under Soke Murphy, his teachings have changed my life more than he will ever know. I thank you Soke Murphy for all your hard work and dedication to the Martial Arts. I will continue to strive to better myself under your guidance.
Dr. Robert R. Wood DC
Posted by: Kwan

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/21/08 03:45 PM

Paddles,

I read your post and it reminded me of something very important...

Today would be the founder of our system, Soke Murphy's 71st birthday and this year is also the 40th anniversary of when the Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te principles and practices were first introduced to the public.

Soke Murphy dedicated his entire life to adapting and improving the various concepts, movements, philosophies, tactics, strategies and methods of his system.

As each student entered his system they were given the current version/teachings of that particular time frame including the required terminology and uniform. For instance, you had mentioned Sanchin Dai which translates to "the great three battles." Within days of Soke's 70th birthday he was adding significant changes/additions to the Tensho portion of Sanchin. These adaptations reflected Soke's current thoughts and evolution of the Sanchin Dai kata which provides the students with a deeper and far more detailed understanding of the martial application (increased core power and energy/force transfer)and spiritual development. It was Soke's beleif that Sanchin was the most important of the empty hand Okninawan katas/forms to learn. Soke expanded upon the Chinese origin of this form.

Regarding the other katas which you mentioned this is to confirm some of the foundation forms:

Three Pillars is Sanchin Dai.

Shiho hi aka Shiho hai is known as Four Points Eight Lights

Sunsu is Honored Masters.

Soke is in my thoughts much of the time. We continue to honor him by practicing and developing and expanding his Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te system.

Dr. Viggiano is the official archiver, as requested by Soke's family, so if you or anyone else who reads this site would like any related information...he is but a keystroke away.

In fond memory of Soke Murphy.

Dan Flaherty
Senior Instructor/Advisor
Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/21/08 04:09 PM

Thank you. I can then assume that Chinto was Phoenix Dragon as Wiggy suggested?
I would be interested in hearing about the changes to Sanchin.
Posted by: sifuyoga

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/21/08 08:17 PM

I would like to wish master Murphy's family and close student my warmest regards on this day the 21st of january, master murphy birthday. I can only hope that master murphy's teachings will reach far beyond the limitations of our physical forms and help bring peace in this much turbulent world, MAY PEACE PREVAIL ON EARTH!!!!

SIFUYOGA
Posted by: buck84

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/21/08 08:40 PM

GREETINGS TO MY FELLOW MARTIAL ARTS PRACTITIONERS.
THIS IS MY FIRST OF HOPEFULLY MANY POSTINGS.I DO THIS TO HONOR MY TEACHER AND FRIEND, ROBERT MURPHY.HE WOULD HAVE BEEN SEVENTY ONE TODAY.WHEN SOMEONE OF HIS STATURE PASSES, IT IS GOOD AND RIGHT TO TAKE A MOMENT ON THEIR BIRTHDAY TO HONOR THEM IN YOUR OWN PRIVATE WAY.PERHAPS A CANDLE, SOME INSENCE,OR A SIMPLE BOW TO THE ONE WHO TRIED SO HARD FOR SO LONG TO SHOW US THE WAY.GOD BLESS YOU MY OLD FRIEND.
STEVEN LUNDQUIST
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/21/08 10:20 PM

I thought I would put up one more recent picture this evening of Soke working with the bow. Please excuse the quality of the copy.
Posted by: photobob

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/22/08 12:36 AM

Happy Birthday Sensei – I miss you!
I had been studying Tae Kwan Do and by a very fortunate accident I found the Iron Pony and Bob Murphy while looking for weapons. After many attempts to get him to give me instruction and being turned down (he said he was not teaching at the time) he finally said he would arrange an interview for me. The interview was with Chris Viggiano, a very young and very talented martial artist. As a result of the interview I was accepted as a personal apprentice, an event that changed my life and my thinking about life. We always practiced outside, generally in Flanders, sometimes on our farm and always wore street clothes. As time went on we became very good friends, although he was a very private person he let me into his world and I let him into mine. He was an extraordinary Martial Artist and teacher but most importantly he was an extraordinary person. The kind of person, if you are lucky, will meet once in a life time. Besides his MA he was and artist (painter) and was formally schooled in art. He loved the out of doors, his dogs, his family and his friends. I think he was most at peace when he was by himself in the woods with the animals and sometimes with a few friends. He also found freedom on a motorcycle or in a fast car. We had many wonderful times doing kata, working the bo, the jo, throwing knives, shooting bow’s, drinking beer, and sometimes (maybe the best) just sitting and talking. Who could have guessed he would leave us so early? Just days before his death I talked to him, he was developing and re-developing martial arts programs, he was excited.

I now study with Dr. Christopher Viggiano who has retained Sensei’s teachings and continues to pass them on to others. I thank Chris for that and I know without doubt that Sensei thanks him also. So, Sensei --- Happy Birthday—I know you are watching over our shoulder. Our regards to Carol, Laura, and Tara. Bob and Joan
Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/22/08 12:43 AM

Greetings Fellow Isshin Shorinji Ryu Enthusiasts ...

Before the night is over, thank you to those that found the time to give a little to honor our founder on what would have been his 71st birthday.

To my teacher and good friend ... although many cherished years have past since those early days of daily training with you ... and through all the behind the scenes planning for your birthday celebrations, demonstrations and re-organizing of the training methods ... I fully enjoyed every selfless moment that you gave to me. All you ever asked in return was a true commitment of myself to train wholeheartedly and research along side you so that the system that you painstakingly created could somehow be preserved and perpetuated for the next generations.

This pact I promised to you in 1980 ... and always remains steadfast and true. Your wishes from last year to me are being fulfilled. I followed your many changes and always looked to your advice. The "old crew" is coming back together to reminisce, and document all your acheivements accurately. Your teachings are quite alive and well as your Guiding Spirit is close at hand. Thank You, teacher.
____________________________________________________________

I leave you with this concept passed down to me from Soke Robert L. Murphy:

Many gravitate towards familiarity and comfort. Some are leaders and followers, loners and group affiliates. Some vacillate between these states of being never knowing where they stand. Learn diligently how to be grounded ...

Those that eat bitter and invest in loss recognize the all encompassing brightness of bliss even if it only exists momentarily.

View this art as a creation of civility, always refine yourself through the tools that you have aquired ... We are all in this together. These Arts, as in All Things, are One ...


Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano - Shihan/Shifu
Family Representative Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te
Posted by: anthonyrfiore

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/22/08 09:40 AM

As a practicioner of Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te, I would like to thank Soke Murphy for the knowledge that he has passed down to my instructors. Having been involved in the martial arts for almost 30 years, it wasn't until my introduction to this art by Dr. Christopher Viggiano and also Sensei Dan Flaherty, to whom I am a personal apprentice, that my previous training in various arts found unity. This art is alive and flourishing in Morris County, NJ, and I invite anyone interested to come and be a part of it.

Warm regards,

Anthony R. Fiore, Esq.
Posted by: DragonFire

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/22/08 10:59 AM

Isshin Shorinji ryu Is alive and well In Aurora Il.

It is taught by Sensei Francis in Sandwich, Il Several of the Y's in the area have instructors in OUR style. You can also join our club and Sensei's Brown and Darby.

You can go to DragonFireAurora.com for more info. I have the history and info of our style there. As well as photos etc.

Please feel free to contact me if have pictures of documents related to our style. Email to DragonFireGuy@mac.com

I would also like to thank al the folks who contributed already many of whom post here.

Thanks Isshin Shorinji ryu Gang!

You all know who you are.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/22/08 02:52 PM

Thanks for the weblink DragonFire. You have some good historical facts and pictures on your website.... Always good to hear from you guys as we get to reacqaint ourselves again.
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/22/08 04:52 PM

I had not seen your site before. Very nice. A good archive some of the people that helped to develop our system. Thank you.
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/22/08 05:43 PM

I thought I'd put this one up for you. What form was this from?
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/22/08 09:50 PM

It looks like either the beginning of Naihanchi-Ni or the end of Shiho-hi. It's hard to say without motion— the former uses the scooping motion while moving forward, while the latter uses it while moving backward.

A quick note while the discussion of kata is ongoing: Those of us descended from Sensei Chapman don't (or didn't— this may have changed) have Chinto or Sunsu in our repertoire.

This leads me to ask of everyone: What kata did you learn as part of an Isshin Shorinjiryu curriculum, and at what point in time were you active in the system? (The answers may help us to trace the style's changes, at least where kata requirements were concerned.)

Another question: Sanchin-Dai— which seems to me to be a combination of Sanchin and Tensho— is, I think, unique to Isshin Shorinjiryu. Did Soke Murphy create it? Does anyone know if he created any other kata?
Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/22/08 11:33 PM

Good Evening Mr. Tippet,

In response to your query ... this stance, posture, torso rotation and fist presentation is found in multiple Kata/Kuen in the Isshin Shorinji Ryu System and in many other styles as well.

To name just a few:
* Shihohai (aka Shiho Hai/Shiho Hi)
* Chinto
* Shobu
* Shaolin Chuan Fa Kuen
* The 5 Element/5 Fist Linking Form, (Wu Xing, Wu Quan), which is found in our Xingyiquan Forms (aka Neijiaquan)


The Neijiaquan division of our system (Taijiquan, Baquazhang, & Xingyiquan) was only shown to a handful of apprentices; however, Soke, in the last few years wanted this material to eventually be given to current practitioners to help them understand the connection to our Chinese Origin, as well as to our Chinese, Japanese, and Okinawan weapons training.
____________________________________________________________

Here are a few Pearls that Soke Robert L. Murphy passed down to me ... and now I to you.

A solid structure/foundation in stances, and a detailed working knowledge of function/application is vital for repeatable results.

Static pictures only represent a moment in time. If one does not contemplate the deeper essence, the power found in transitions from movement through movement ... your form is a mere shell with a hollow core. Mimickry will result in delusion ... do not take this path.

The ultimate goal of Kata/Kuen is to become formless ... how many miss the mark.
____________________________________________________________

This system is wide as is deep ... Train For Life
Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano
Posted by: Victor Smith

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/23/08 05:26 AM

Chris,

Sanchin Tensho as a kata is found in Meibukan Goju-ryu of Meitoku Yagui. You can find various versions on You Tube, here are twoof them.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHeRn4xaQvU or http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRUwoIEOTWo

Now perhaps your version is a different one, but this might give you some context.
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/23/08 09:49 AM

Chris,
The kata in the picture was Shiho hi.
Sensei Chapman had both Chinto and Sunsu, I saw him do them. The forms were not taught until after shodan. Most of the technique seen in these kata were introduced in kata like Sanseroo, Seuchin, the Naihanchis and the Pinans.
The katas of the system to shodan promotion were 3 Taikyokus, 5 Pinans, Sanseroo, Seisan, Sanchin Dai, Seiuchin, for some Saifa, 3 Naiuhanchis, and Wansu. After Shodan: Chinto, Gankaku Sho and Dai, Kusanku Sho and Dai, Bossai Sho and Dai, Kusanku Sai, and Tokumi No Kun. We also learned Chatanyara no Sai, Urashi bo, and Shishi bo.
While there are some differences between the Isshin Ryu forms of Chinto and Sunsu, if you can work with these forms it would be easy to incorporate the later changes. To give this some temporal context, I started training with Sensei in 1966.
The Sanchin Dai we did then was quite different than the Sanchin Sensei gave me in 1998. Sanchin Dai was taught in a number of systems I think Miyagi the founder of Gojuryu first taught it.
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/23/08 10:21 AM

Good Morning Christopher,
Thank you. Your first choice was correct. As you know from your training with Soke, all of the arts are a recapitulation and continued refinement of the basics. So it is easy to find a number of references to this technique set in the forms.
__________________________________________________

Here are a couple of thoughts Soke shared with me that I will share with you.

There are many paths up Mt Fuji, but the view from the top is the same.

The Mountain does not laugh at the River because it is lowly; nor does the River speak ill of the Mountain because it cannot move about.

Always good to hear from you.

Russ
Posted by: sn7ns

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/23/08 03:13 PM

Are you guys trying to say that there are two isshin shorinji ryu systems??
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/23/08 05:12 PM

Nobody has even come close to saying anything like that.
Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/23/08 07:36 PM

Isshin Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te
"One Spirit, little pine forest temple school, Okinawa hand"
also translated as, "In the Spirit/Heart of Shaolin"

One system, one concept, multiple variations.
Also ... Large root, one trunk, many branches, abundant good fruit ... feeds everyone.
____________________________________________________________

Lets view it like this ... when someone has a knack for invention and artistic expression, they are continually striving for perfection to create their magnificent masterpiece. Sensei also was a talented graphics artist ... (as archiver, I was given by Soke his hand written images for eventual patches/logos and teaching curriculums).

Whether it is designing the next fastest microprocessing computer chip for a digital SLR camera, the next heart surgery with electro-acupuncture application (my good friend Dr. John Hsi Lee developed this technique), the subtle herb combination used in the cooking of an acorn-fed wild boar chop from Russia (my chef brother Dr. Paul is famous for this exclusive dish in his restaurant), the next genetically modified disease resistant corn crop used for ethanol, or the newly designed double pinned 7 metal-layered combat Steel Katana for Tameshigiri Testing ... Ingenuity is the mother of invention.

This ability to create wonderous things is within all of us, for many it just lays dormant until stirred.

The point is simply this ... names, numbers, colors, shapes are nothing if not acted upon. Good and or bad intentions are just that ... ideas without manifestation. Soke did not care how many katas or forms a student collected, (Soke himself was certainly a grandest collector), rather that one understands intimately the principles/theory & practical applications many times hidden within this "Living Book" with multiple translations.

The sheer volume of detailed curriculum/requirements of the 1970's gave rise to the very downfall of the public teachings of ISR. Even by replacing the "Mudansha/Yudansha" system of individual achievemnt with the "Kazoku" or family system, personality conflicts/egos still caused internal obstacles for the system to flouish in a commercial and private environment. Many came, many left, few continued to follow.
____________________________________________________________

Ponder this ... Isshin Shorinji Ryu teachings as an entity commenced in 1968. Soke left public teaching in 1979. Soke never stopped scrutinizing, cross referncing and adopting/adapting methods to produce a better product. So let's do the math ... 40 years of ISR, 11 years public and 29 private of evolution ... that's about only 25% that has been seen publically and 75% that has not.

Soke and I redesigned programs since 1983 directed more towards the associative learning process as opposed to the pre-requisite based sequential learning/level teaching methods. For instance ... our Chinese double-edged straight sword (Jian) training is the same as our combat firearms training program ... just the tool/extension is exchanged. This has proven to develop a more well-rounded student while building bridges to other martial systems instead of erecting walls.

When I was asked by Soke Murphy starting in 1983 to run the initial interview for applicants to train in this system, the first question of many was, "Why do you want to study an antiquated method of combative arts ?". Many never passed that first interview to even speak directly with Soke. Soke was tired of the usual ... "I need another cool kata for competition", or "I want to break 10 pine boards for my next demo", or "I want to be the baddest MF...er fighter around". He had seen it, done it, and wanted no more of it ...

Ask youself this, How many of you are willing to trade in your flat panal 50" plasma HDTV for a 13 channel B/W tube, or put aside your shiny iPhone for 2 cans and a string, or wear those insufficient glasses when Lazik surgery is available.

Many still want to tell their "war stories" of what was, rather than what is, and what will be. Fine ... you are part of the history, ... but what can you offer back to help Soke Robert L. Murphy and his Family in the continual preservation and perpetuation of the System he created for you ... Evolve. ____________________________________________________________

The Mixed Martial Arts as taught by Soke is a Philosophy, Art, & Science solely directed towards self-improvement tri-unifying oneself Mentally, Physically, and Spiritually ... thereby aquiring the ability to help others along the path of Life in quest of "The Way".

More statements from Soke Murphy:
"The posession of skill is not an end, but rather a tool in an ongoing process of self-evaluation, and that within the relationships of prior experience, new experience, and sought experience, lies the purpose of existence and the process of self-realization."

In the remembrance of Soke and in the Spirit of Shaolin "Shorinji",

Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano
Keeper of the Flame
Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/23/08 09:07 PM

Where is the spell check on this thing ... sorry.
You all get the concept ... stand strong, be proud.

Our time here is quite brief ...
Dr. CMV
Posted by: BrianS

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/23/08 10:04 PM

Quote:

Where is the spell check on this thing ... sorry.
You all get the concept ... stand strong, be proud.

Our time here is quite brief ...
Dr. CMV




Are you being philosophical?

p.s. There's no spell check.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/24/08 01:59 PM

Chris,

Are you insinuating that anyone who does not study with you or modify their ideas with the ones you have is outdated?

Carl
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/24/08 07:40 PM

Chris Viggiano has provided a very good recap of my original posts to S7NS. I suspect this will have to be repeated many more times before S7NS begins to get it. Quite likely not worth the effort, when we can just suggest that he read the posts several more times.

I would take exception to a couple of statements though. First the history of the arts is predominantly oral and through kata. I don't think there was much of an effort at written history much before 1920. The oar kata I practice from time to time has its origins over 800 years ago. Nothing was written just the kata and the story; who taught me and who taught him. When I studied Judo at the 'Y' as a kid my teacher told of his teacher and Kano. When I studied with Grand Master Best he told stories of Shimabuku and the others he trained with. In the over 40 years that I learned from Soke he told stories. Stories of Don Nagle and 'Shimmy', of Don Bohan, and Gary Alexander and many others. He told of his friend Jim Chapman and Bill Chung. In Later years we spoke of and of Ron Landis Chuck Cusamano, Rich Orkin and Walt Fanning people I studied with, all people I learned from. I am not sure but I think Chris too is recounting stories he heard from Soke. Telling the story makes you feel closer to the man, closer to your art; closer to the Family. You see, because of our art we are tied to an oral tradition. Chris is correct, it is part of what made us. I do not find a recitation of the kata we learned when I started to be a sacrilege as it was in response to a question about our lineage. Soke once asked “What's the definition of the old Corps.”. The answer was simply “yesterday”. That joke has been with us since the Tun Tavern. Warriors tell war stories. It is part of who we are.

While I am on the subject of the family; it has always been my sense that we are all 'keepers of the flame' as we all in some way carry Soke's thought forward and his flame burns brightly through our practice.
It was in that spirit that I started posting this year. It is a sharing of thought that promotes growth. I hoped the oral tradition could continue in the 'global village'. Because of the distances we deal with it is not likely that we can sit, drink tea and 'trade lies' after training.

I have taken the liberty of posting the Three Pillars that Soke taught me as a part of our story. It is my hope that you will all enjoy this. Perhaps it will stimulate discussion of technique, how it differs from what each of you have learned how it may have changed since I recorded it that beautiful spring day.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Po9Yq0M_3PE

Russ
Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/25/08 12:47 AM

Russ,

We all sincerely thank you for sharing with us a precious piece of our history. It is a rare treasure to capture Soke on video.

Throughout the years, Sensei did not want to give the impression that the way he performed any kata/principle at any given moment was etched in stone.

However, to preserve his work for his daughters and grandchildren, in September of 2006, Sensei was finally ready to have my oldest son, Vico, who is a videographer and digital editor, come down to Georgia and document his theory, principles, and practices, including the historical evolution of our System.

In Gratitude For Your Contribution,
Christopher M. Viggiano
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/25/08 08:45 AM

Digital? Videographer? What? No grain, in focus, no macaws....
I'll try to put a couple of more up in the next couple of days.
It would be very interesting to compare these two points in time.

Russ
Posted by: paddles

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/26/08 10:55 AM

Here is a list of the urls for 5 weaponless forms:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwGQhY7GN_Q
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I25pzKHHhIw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7X3WusnCSRo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ktweyig3fjg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CY-fJDlcreY

These should be viewed as waypoints not destinations.
The value of what Soke showed us as the system evolves is its elegant simplicity. It provides a foundation for study. Soke spoke about the devaluing of the weaponless arts in context of our present culture. What they provide, as Chris alluded to, is a basis for training with more modern weapons. Soke laid out concepts for the control of the battle space a truth for self-defense in any context. Those concepts are in our art no matter where you intercept the timeline.
A long winded way of saying I am posting these only as food for thought.
Posted by: Zach_Zinn

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/26/08 07:16 PM

Interesting stuff, the '3 pillars' form looked like a combination of Sanchin and Tensho.
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/26/08 08:44 PM

Three Pillars is Sanchin with Tensho, or better known as Sanchin Dai.
Posted by: DrViggiano12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/28/08 01:25 AM

Good Morning ...

As the co-founder of Sword Stick Society International, along with my partner Mataw Guro Lou Lledo-Shihan, we run monthly continuing education workshops and weekly classes in North and Southern New Jersey.

Soke Murphy has been behind the scenes as one of our advisors since our SSSI group was founded almost 3 years ago. In addition, Soke was scheduled to travel with us throughout the workshop circuit, which now has extended to California and to the Philippines.

One of our many diverse workshop topics is ... SANCHIN & TENSHO .

Below is one of the many handouts given by us to our students. This should inspire you to research, respectfully challenge, and if you are a practitioner, regardless of your system of study, to take a glimpse into merely one grain of sand to see how all is one. Enjoy ...
___________________________________________________________

Sanchin Dai Kata:

Sanchin Dai Kata , the "great battles/conflicts/pillars form", is a fundamental Okinawan empty hand form, (Kata in Japanese/Okinawan and Kuen in Chinese), with its roots tracing back to a Chinese Temple. It is where an Indian Buddhist Monk, Da Mo (aka. Bodhidarma), around 550 A.D. created strength and endurance Internal Qigong exercises known as the Yi Jin Jing (Muscle/Tendon Changing Classic) and the Xi Sui Jing (Marrow/Brain Washing Classic) routines for longevity and enlightenment. The Shaolin Monks took these principles and adopted them into their daily practices. It is documented that here is where a variety of Shaolin-szu Chuan Fa (Shorinji Kempo) or "Fist Methods" and weapon arts were systematically born for fighting, healing, and spiritual development. Coincidently, one will also find the Taoist arts from Wudang Mountain ... Taijiquan, Xingyiquan, Baguazhang and others formulating simultaneously similar methods of training.

Sanchin is also known in China as ... Sanji, San Chien, San Chan to name a few. This form is known for containing significant methods of Universal Energy (Chi/Ki/Prana) for the production, storage, circulation, and emission necessary in "Iron Shirt/Vest" and "Iron Bell" training ... initially for the body to withstand and absorb forceful blows. In addition, a practitioner develops explosive internal penetrating power (Fa Jin) applied over a short distance through directing mindset, energy production/transfer, and neuro-musculo-skeletal alignments. This revered skill is known throughout the Chinese Martial Arts (Wuyi) as (Yi + Qi + Li = Jin).

Martial Artists traveling the shipping trade routes to Fukien Province in south China brought back to the Ryukyu (Okinawan) Islands precious knowledge in which they incorporated into their own indigenous fighting and healing methods.

SANCHIN, (San=3, Chin=conflicts), translates to 3 battles/conflicts/pillars of which the practitioner journeys a lifelong pursuit in balancing the three internal struggles between the Mind, Body & Spirit. This is done by specific: stepping patterns, torso/trunk/core mechanics, upper arm angulations, and fist/grip methods. All this is powered by: dynamic muscular tension, coordinated deep abdominal breathing, and mental imagery.

This Kata, (pre-arranged sequence), is distinct in its pigeon-toed stance known as Sanchin Dachi where the lead foot is turned inward at a 45 degree angle while the rear foot is facing forward online. Weight is equally distributed on the "balls of the feet" activating the Yongquan K1 acupoint,( aka. Bubbling Well Spring Acupoint-K1:Kidney Meridian). The pelvis is tucked and muscles are contracted throughout the body sequentially to provide proper force acceptance and transfer. A semi-circular stepping pattern advancing forward, crossing and retreating backwards is essential. Slip-Stepping and Circular Stepping patterns are found in advanced stages. Moving instinctively and intuitively is the first step to becoming Formless ...

TENSHO, translates to rotating/revolving palms, is a separate Kata/Kuen whereby the dynamic position and speed of the upper torso and extremities are explored and exemplified. These intricate movements and the dexterous nature of the upper extremity are given names that mimic the animals/insects of Hung Ga Gung Fu, White Crane and Praying Mantis Systems, and the eight palms/energies found in Baquazhang to name a few. These interchangeable tools are deployed with precision for deflections, disengagements, joint locks, sealing of the breath/blood vessels, and acupoint pressure applications.

Even through present day, Sanchin Dai, with its origins traced back to China, is a fundamental Kata/Kuen found in the core curriculum of many Martial Art Systems. By exploring History, understanding Anatomy Physiology, applying Physics ... one can experience a deeper meaning in the refining of oneself in the quest for self mastery and in return the essence of all things.
____________________________________________________________

Prominent Recent Masters:

Master Xie Chingxian (aka. Ryu Ryuko 1852-1930): Along with his students taught Higashionna Kantyu at a young age Fukien White Crane Boxing, Lohan Monk Boxing and Damo Iron Body Skills.

Master Higashionna Kanryo (1853-1915):
Naha-te Founder. His teachings evolved into the Shorei (External)School. The students trained for great muscular strength and preferred direct blocks, little change in position and strong crushing attacks launched at close range while holding on to their adversary.

Master Chojun Miyagi (1888-1953):
Okinawan Goju-Ryu Founder. Master Miyagi traveled back to explore his teacher's roots in southern China. He was further inspired by White Crane, Sil Lum Praying Mantis, Taijiquan, Xingyiquan, and Baquazhang philosophies and practice. He thereby blended the hardness/tension (Go) of Sanchin Sho, (the smaller abbreviated form), with his own creation of softness/pliability/flow(Ju) skills ... naming it Tensho. This is the marriage of hard/soft, Yin/Yang, In/Yo ... the dynamic interrelationship of opposing elements.

Master Gogen "The Cat" Yamaguchi (1909-1989):
Japanese Goju-Ryu Founder. Commencing his training in Jigen-ryu Kenjutsu, Master Yamaguchi was a foremost student of Master Miyagi and was sanctioned to spread the Goju-Ryu System to mainland Japan where he also combined his Shinto religion into his teachings. Master Lou Lledo is one of very few personal apprentices of Master Yamaguchi.

Master Tatsuo Shimabuku (1908-1975):
Founder of Isshin Ryu Okinawan Karate was a student of Master Chojun Miyagi amongst others which influenced the development of his own system. In 1969, Soke Murphy received his Senior Master's Certificate in Isshinryu and Kobujutsu Arts from Master Shimabuku.

Sword Stick Society International Founders:
Mataw Guro Lou Lledo-Shihan, personal apprentice of Grandmaster Gogen "The Cat" Yamaguchi
www.amara-arkanis.com

Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano-Shihan/Shifu

____________________________________________________________


For further information or if you are interested in attending our continual educational events.

Dr. Christopher M. Viggiano
shihancv@comcast.net

www.swordsticksociety.com
www.streamingmartialarts.com
www.joutsunghwa-taichipark.org

____________________________________________________________

For additional information or clarification, let me introduce you to my very good friends and associates in which I have been affiliated with ... many since the early 1990's, at the Tai Chi Farm Annual Zhang San-Feng Festival, founded by one of my other very influential teachers, Master Jou, Tsung Hwa (1917-1998) ... who was a very personal friend and teacher to Soke Murphy.

All of the following teachers are pioneers in their own respected arts while continually researching, developing, & sharing in the Unified Martial Arts Family, upholding the Code of Ethics & Virtues passed down to us by our most honorable teachers:

Dr. John Hsi Lee
ITG-Custom Weapons Design/Importer
Dr. Lee's Academy of Martial & Healing Arts
www.itg8.com

Dr. Yang-Jwing Ming
Yang's Martial Arts Association
www.ymaa.com

Dr. John Painter-Shifu
Jiulong Baquazhang
Li Family Daoqiquan
www.thegompa.com

Master Jianye Jiang
Capital District Tai Chi & Kung Fu Association
www.jiangtaichi.com

Master Jose Figueroa
Chen Taijiquan
Film Producer & Actor
www.darkravenstudios.com

John Hughes-Shihan
Isshinryu School of Karate
www.isshin-ryu.com
Posted by: buck84

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/28/08 08:17 PM

GOOD EVENING,
DISCUSSION ABOUT OUR SYSTEM IS A GOOD THING TO DO, PROVIDING IT IS NOT BEING DONE TO ELEVATE ONESELF IN THIS CYBER COMMUNITY. THIS WOULD GO COMPLETELY AGAINST EVERYTHING THAT SENSIE STOOD FOR. FOR THOSE OUT THERE WHO'S INTENSION'S ARE PURE, PLEASE DON'T TAKE OFFENSE TO THIS STATEMENT. THE PHONY ONES KNOW WHO THE ARE. AS FAR AS QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SYSTEM GOES, DR. VIGGIANO IS THE ONE TO ASK, AS HE WAS THE ONE AND ONLY PERSONAL APPRENTICE OF SENSIE MURPHYS. I AM SURE THAT THIS TOO WILL BRING ON SOME ARGUMENT, YET I KNOW THIS, AS A SENIOR MEMBER OF THE SYSTEM AND PERSONAL FRIEND OF SENSIE'S. HIS FAMILY WILL ALSO ATTEST TO THIS FACT.PLEASE REMEMBER WHY IT IS YOU STUDIED THE ARTS IN THE FIRST PLACE.
STEVEN LUNDQUIST
SHIHAN, ISSHIN-SHORINJI
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/28/08 10:30 PM

Steve,

"I AM SURE THAT THIS TOO WILL BRING ON SOME ARGUMENT"

I am sorry that you were right about this but I have to RESPECTFULLY disagree with you. Your statement is not accurate and anyone who says different would be wrong. I had many conversations with sensei about my study with him, HE CALLED ME HIS APPRENTICE. You were present for some of my classes with sensei at his house with his family their so I am puzzled. You were their!

You may ask why I am being so defensive. Without sensei's instruction I could have traveled on a completely diferent path, maybe a bad one. He made me see many good things and called me his friend and student. No one is going to take that away from me.

You mentioned how some people here are trying to elevate oneself, your right and everyone reading this thread know who that person is. I want to make it clear that I am not concerned with any titles or recognitions as the only one who would be able to do that is no longer here(nor do I have the skill).

I will always have my practice and the memory that I WAS AN APPRENTICE OF SENSEI MURPHY.

I have always respected you and looked up to you as a senior student so please do not take this response the wrong way but I have to take exeption to your statement no matter who challenges it.

I hope you and I can move forward and as you said just have discussions about the system.

Chris Chavez
chrisfin123@yahoo.com
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/29/08 08:12 AM

Murphy 101 stated “I simply opened the corral gate to let loose a few fresh horses in the hope they might partner with a few good riders… yourself included”.

I hope that is sufficient enough… If not, I have paperwork calligraphied by Laura and signed by Soke Murphy and you, Steve… I also have references by Chris Viggiano and other senior students in the system can testify as to our/my history and status in the system.

Steve, you used to be called the ‘Iron Fist’ by Soke doing the same thing I’m doing here as I have no more tolerance for the garbage I've seen on this thread.

I agree that discussion about the system is a good thing and wish for it to continue. But, I wish that it would be participated by all without degradation of others and self promotion… I feel that the East coast group is being seen as a bunch of whiny brats who are fighting for position and soon no-one will care to participate in discussion (note, not even Dean Ansari).

If this thread continues to be used for self promotion and degrading of others or for personal gain, I propose those wishing to discuss the system move to another thread and indicate its new location so we can continue to discuss Isshinshorinji without the interruptions.

Chris Viggiano claims to be the ‘official archiver’ of the system but none on this list has seen him release anything to the group that can be substantiated. We have only seen pictures released by Chuck Cusamano, and the Illinois dojo’s, and video by Russ Tippett.

I do not know what has been going on behind the scenes in NJ and can only guess what is happening there, but I will state the following:
Dean Ansari is the documented Grandmaster.
Questions and answers can be posted by everyone on this forum.
No-one should ever be called or considered to be ‘antiquated’.

Murphy 101 stated “Of Isshin-Shorinji, some practice the forms of its infancy, others of its adolecent years, and some from the early period of its maturity. Each, depending on their time and understanding of the "Idea", bring that experience to their practice. Those who practice for their own sake are less likely to be trapped in the game of numbers, standards, and styles. Remember the Form is not Thing, its about simplicity.”

Carl
(Note; There has never been and nor will there ever be a title or rank I put here as I do not consider myself to be above or below anyone, just a student and personal apprentice of Soke Murphy’s for too brief a period)
Posted by: Chris Wissmann

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/29/08 11:21 AM

Entering the discussion at this point with the following observations entails a degree of presumptuousness that I fear is neither earned nor attractive. I hope all can forgive me the transgression.

1. Since many of us received instruction at different times, or even from instructors other than Soke Murphy, we all clearly all have much to learn about this system from each other. (I, for one, certainly have far more to learn than to share, which is why I come here.) Not all information is valid, of course, but credit readers with the intelligence and perseverance necessary to find the truth.

2. We are all representatives of Isshin Shorinjiryu, although some may have more claim to authority than others. (I, a ni-kyu, certainly claim no authority.) Credit readers with the intelligence to grasp the validity of those claims.

3. Public message boards are not the place to initiate or perpetuate personal vendettas. Remember that many readers don’t know, and probably would prefer not to know, the background necessary to follow such arguments. Speaking only for myself, I offer here an opinion that I understand may not carry much weight: I not only wish to take no side in internecine conflicts, I would prefer not to observe them at all. It is better in all respects to discuss these issues privately, face to face.

4. This is the world wide web— our potential reading audience is the entire planet, and our posts could remain online far longer than we live. Right now, people will receive more information about the style here than anywhere else on the internet. Imagine someone with no background in this style, or even the martial arts, coming to this forum, to learn— what would he or she think about Isshin Shorinjiryu? Such people, at certain points in the discussion, may not come away with a positive image of the system’s representatives (at least those willing to post on this message board), and thus the style we represent— a sad comment considering the deep importance we all place in Isshin Shorinjiryu.
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/29/08 01:55 PM


Good post Chris
Posted by: sn7ns

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/29/08 05:11 PM

The book Asian Fighing Arts states that isshin shorinji ryu was a dropped system. This book was published in 1969.
Posted by: buck84

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/29/08 09:55 PM

GOOD EVENING AGAIN,
I FULLY EXPECTED THAT MY STATMENT WOULD CAUSE SOME UPROAR. I ALSO EXPECTED CERTAIN PEOPLE TO RESPOND AND WAS NOT LET DOWN. I AM SURE THAT MY WORDS SEEM TO BE A SLAP IN THE FACE ,BUT THEY WERE MEANT TO BE A REALITY CHECK.I WAS A STUDENT OF SENSIE'S SINCE 1971 AND A CLOSE FRIEND FOR MUCH OF THAT TIME, BUT I WAS NOT HIS PERSONAL APPRENTICE. THERE WAS ONLY ONE. I SUPPOSE WE ARE PLAYING WITH WORDS HERE BUT THERE IS A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TWO. IT HAS BEEN SAID BY THE ABOVE THAT NO ONE KNEW WHERE SENSIE WENT, YET DR. VIGGIANO WAS IN CONSTANT CONTACT WITH HIM. THIS OF COURSE CAN BE AFFIRMED BY HIS FAMILY. HE IS THE ONLY ONE WHO HAS WORKED RELENTLESLY TO KEEP THE SYSTEM ALIVE HERE.YOU NEED TO PUT ASIDE YOUR DIFFERENCES WITH HIM.ONE LAST THOUGHT, ANYONE WHO TRAINS REGULARLY IN THE SYSTEM, MY WORDS DO NOT APPLY TO. IF YOU DO NOT THOUGH, YOU SHOULD ASK YOURSELF WHY NOT? STEVEN LUNDQUIST,SHIHAN,ISSHIN-SHORINJI
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/29/08 10:19 PM

I sincerely hope that I was one of the people that let you down Steve, as any friend of the devil's is not a friend of mine.
Let me just respond quickly as I am practicing.
YOU ARE WRONG!!!

P.S. There were other people in contact with him.
Posted by: BrianS

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/29/08 10:57 PM

buck,

I suppose you just came here to stir up contraversy, good on you. Obviously, "SENSIE", taught you well,lol.

Typing in all caps IS SHOUTING, TRY TURNING YOUR CAPS OFF.

Get a life.
Posted by: Kwan

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/29/08 11:17 PM

Dr. Viggiano,

My teacher. My friend. Thank-you. Thank-you for starting to bring forth the history of our system to all of us. I know that you have much more to publish and speak about as I have seen the documents, the pictures, the books and the videos. I am patient and know that with all of the listed data it will take time to properly and professionally present to this forum. Thank-you for ignoring the personal attacks against you and for remaining the gentleman that you are. The discipline and perseverence which you have gained during your journey thru the martial arts and life itself remain an example of proper adult conduct for all to follow. Thank-you for bringing Soke Murphy's System into all of our lives. We are all better for it. As your senior student...it is an honor to instruct for you and your teacher...Soke Murphy.

Steve Lundquist,

Thanks for saying what was long over do. Your words were brief but they do carry great meaning to the phrase "THE TRUTH HURTS." Steve, I know that you were very close to Soke and know many things about him and his system that others do not. When things calm down on this thread I would be very appreciative if you could provide your piece of our system's history to these posts. It would be great addition. The story that you told me this past Friday regarding why Soke started in the martial arts will be forever in my mind. One day I hope that you share that with all of the others. For the record...I stand at your side. You are a man of honor as is Dr. Viggiano.

Chris Wissman,

Sir, you do not know me and this could possibly be my last post so I would like to take the opportunity to commend you for your last post. There is wisdom in your words. There is a great opportunity here for everyone to learn about our system and the people in that system...
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/30/08 12:12 AM


You people really aren't worth it.
Posted by: shoshinkan

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/30/08 04:14 AM

Good people,

im struggling with this posts relevance to the general membership and am concerned that there are a number of varied views begining to start to evolve.

Could I ask everyone here to discuss the system, its history and its practice and move on from who is the head, who knows whatever blah blah,

otherwise this thread is in danger of being locked down as it seems there are personal agendas begining to surface.
Posted by: chris12

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/30/08 08:48 AM


Jim,

Many of us have tried to make this about the system but there is a group that is trying to take over and promoting themselfs as you can clearly see. Its hard not to confront them when they are doing what our teacher did not want them to do. Unfortunately I agree with you, maybe it is time to shut this down.
Posted by: wiggy

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/30/08 10:10 AM

This is my last post on this particular thread... I have said my truth and feel no additional need to respond.

I'm sick of the insinuations and the fight for 'Sensei loved me the best' or 'I want to control the system... It's my turn!'.

I admit I personally have a problem with Viggiano and will not bore you in the details on this thread as it is personal.

I want to see the continuation of discussion of our system and therefore started a new thread named "Discussion of Isshinshorinji Ryu".

All are welcome to join in its discussion but leave your attitudes and issues behind as I am doing here.
I hope to see all of you (alright, not all of you ) in active respectful discussion on this new thread.

Carl
Posted by: shoshinkan

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 01/30/08 12:12 PM

good People,

Im going to lock this thread down, another thread has been created to discuss the system specifically and ensure you have a location to meet/greet each other - I hope with the correct martial arts attitude.

No one should feel this is personal, I just dont want the thread to spiral into personal battles - this we you all have a fresh start and I hope will discuss the system as friends.

I wish you all well!
Posted by: shoshinkan

Re: Isshin-Shorinji Ryu Okinawa-Te Style - 02/11/08 04:13 PM

My reply to this thread will 'bump' it to the top of the forum to ensure all those interested can see a second thread has been created to discuss this system etc etc.

after that, once it disappears of the first screen users will need to search for it.

Here is the new threads location -

http://www.fightingarts.com/ubbthreads/s...=0#Post15981830