From time to time we practice with bokken in the dojo. Because we make contact with the bokken, I purchased several inexpensive ones for use in the dojo. They were very light colored, almost like a white oak.
One of my students purchased one of these bokken at the store and refinished it. He stripped off the finish, nicely sanded the surface, and applied a light coat of oil that brought out the natural color of the wood.
The cheap bokken did not look cheap any more. It was beautiful.
Sometimes a student too needs just a little work and polishing to reveal the beauty of their true character.
Respectfully,
Charles C. Goodin
