George Leonard passed away this morning at his home in Mill Valley.
George was a gifted martial artist and teacher. He was an author of many cutting edge books and articles as well as a gifted musician. He was also a figher pilot who survived many harrowing combat experiences in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
George created The Samurai Game (the name is trademarked) and LET (Leonard Energy Training, also trademarked). He is a past President of Esalen Institute, where he taught for many years. He was a pioneer in the exploration of human potential and is credited when as the Editor of LOOK MAGAZINE of coining the expression, “Human Potential Movement.” In this interview one can see his brilliant mind in action.
He was one of the three founders of Aikido of Tamalpias, along with Richard Strozzi-Heckler and Wendy Palmer. The dojo became an important part of Aikido training and development and influenced thousands of martial artists throughout the world. George taught classes into his 80’s, still inspiring and challenging his students to take that next step.
His book, The Way of Aikido is a classic of Aikido literature. And his relating of Richard Strozzi-Heckler’s first degree black belt test (“This Isn’t Richard”) in his book The Silent Pulse has moved into the realm of hagiography in the world of Aikido and martial arts lore. His other books include Mastery, The Ultimate Athlete, Education and Ecstasy, and many more.
George, was a Renaissance Man who enjoyed life to the fullest, which can be seen in this interview. When hearing of his passing this morning, I recounted to friends that when we would occasionally meet for lunch at the little French Bistro we both liked in Mill Valley, there was always a moment that I knew would happen that I’d look forward to with relish. The counter person would ask him what he wanted to drink, and his booming voice (and he did have a booming voice!) would exclaim, “ABC!” Which in George’s world meant, “Anything But Chardonnay!”
George Leonard was a martial artist who made a difference in the world and in the lives of untold thousands of people on and off the mat with his great spirit, his love, his affection for Aikido and the joy he spread from his family out unto all who came into his life. We’ll miss you George but I somehow think you’re beginning another incredible journey.
(It has been brought to my attention that the photograph of George used here was taken by Jay Cross and is copyrighted by him.)
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