I watched as The Master demonstrated Koshi Nage - a throw in which you grab your opponent and use your hip to project them to the ground.

He performed the technique over and over and from many different directions so that we all could observe the proper form. We became bored with so many repetitions and were very eager to have our turn.

Finally, we were allowed to attempt the throw with a partner.

After several minutes of frustration I approached The Master for help. “Sensei, my partner is too wide and heavy and my arms are too weak to lift him and throw him to the floor.”

He motioned my partner to attack him, and while he performed the technique once again, he spoke to me: “At no time do I grab this person, I only connect our bodies together. There is no lifting required, I merely position my body so that his momentum continues when I stop. And as for throwing him to the ground, I have the help of a most powerful energy - gravity.”

“I see now,” I replied with humility.

“Don’t be misled by the illusion of the technique,” he said. “Learn to see where true energy comes from.”