Still Standing, Still Growing: Presence Over Rank
What if the true reward of training wasn’t promotion—but presence?
In this heartfelt reflection on decades of Ki-Aikido practice, Keith Thorn shares the quiet power of simply showing up. This isn’t a story of titles earned, but of lessons lived—on the mat and beyond. With honesty and humility, he writes about falling, returning, aging, and learning to bow not just with the body, but with the spirit. Read More
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tracysmith15 –
This is an introspective narrative that blends personal memoir with the philosophy of Ki Aikido. Rather than focusing on technical mastery, the book centers on the quiet, often unseen journey of growth through consistency, humility, and presence. Thorn shares his own struggles with self-doubt, late beginnings, and the slow, sometimes frustrating process of learning.
I am impressed by the way the book uses the practice of Aikido as a metaphor for life itself. Thorn draws meaningful parallels between physical lessons on the mat such as falling, showing up, and maintaining balance and emotional challenges like failure, grief, and change. His reflections on experiences such as divorce, loss, and personal setbacks add depth and authenticity, making the narrative relatable even for readers with no background in martial arts. The idea that “presence over rank” matters more than external validation is consistently reinforced, giving the book a strong, cohesive message.
In the end, this is not just a book about Aikido, but about personal transformation and resilience. Thorn emphasizes that growth is not about perfection or recognition, but about returning again and again to practice, to oneself, and to the present moment. I strongly recommend this book to my fellow readers.
booksforreaders25 –
Still Standing, Still Growing: Presence Over Rank by Keith Thorn is a deeply reflective work that blends memoir, philosophy, and life lessons through the lens of Ki Aikido. Rather than presenting itself as a technical martial arts guide, the book unfolds as a personal journey of persistence, humility, and inner transformation. Thorn emphasizes that growth is not about rank, recognition, or perfection but about presence.
I am impressed with the way the book connects the physical practice of Aikido with universal life experiences. Thorn uses moments from the dojo: falling, bowing, showing up to explore deeper emotional and psychological truths. Whether reflecting on failure, grief, divorce, or self-doubt, he draws parallels that feel authentic and relatable, even for readers unfamiliar with martial arts. The concept of “The Fall is the Lesson” stands out as impactful, transforming what is often seen as failure into an opportunity for awareness and growth.
Still Standing, Still Growing is less about Aikido and more about what it means to live with intention and resilience. Thorn’s message that simply showing up, again and again, is enough is empowering. The book resonates as a companion for anyone navigating life’s uncertainties, reminding readers that growth is quiet, nonlinear, and always available.