Article January 1, 2001 Issue

Luisella Jaques-Deraney

with contributions from Luisella Jaques-Deraney—Dover, MA

Judo is open equally to men and women. It involves movement and rhythm, using another's force as a method of deflection. Its basic philosophy doesn't rest on physical strength. In fact, the qualities that women are thought to express naturally are fundamental in judo — grace, flexibility, agility. In judo, the classic concept of force is overturned.

The basis for establishing true equality between men and women in any field can be found in the spiritual fact that we're all the children of the same Parent, God. And that God loves us infinitely, without exception. She/He creates and sees us as equals. I love the fact that the Lord's Prayer that Jesus gave us starts with the words “Our Father.” This little word “our” really unites all men and women.

In judo, there's an element of respect and politeness towards all the other participants, that helps establish a feeling of equality between women and men. For me, however, the politeness goes beyond the Japanese judo tradition that expects mutual greetings before starting any interaction. For instance, I realized soon after starting judo that winning at any cost is no victory. Respecting others, means to me that I don't have the intention of winning a fight, no matter what it takes. I practice judo for the fun of it. And that hasn't prevented me from passing from belt to belt, from progressing in the sport, and from becoming first dan (the first degree of black belt).

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