Inspired as a young man by the Kung Fu series and the relationship between Kwai Chang Kane & Master Po, the "wandering uke" was becoming a gleam in Frank's eye. Frank really liked the idea of a traveling martial artist, getting in adventures, doing good deeds and sharing good will. So being, that in about 1986, began a relentless odyssey that continues to this day, always encouraging students and colleagues to come aboard and hit the road with gi bag in hand.
There is so much wonder out there, so much to learn and share when visiting dojos and destinations where martial and healing training is available. Frank crosses continental and international boundaries in his travels, and is a fierce and passionate ambassador for High Sierra Jujitsu, the American Judo and Jujitsu Federation and Dan Zan Ryu Jujitsu.
As a kyu rank, Frank competed often in kata and freestyle contests and never missed a National Convention, Clinic or Brown Belt Weekend. As a dan rank, he did more of the same, while also being invited to share his knowledge as a teacher.
What it comes down to is that one really broadens his view of things, people and the world through travel. "Getting out of the House" becomes a way of life, seeking knowledge and always insuring that the "home team" is safe, content and happy. More importantly, being forever thankful and fortunate, of having the luxury to go forth and find the action, since it doesn't always come to us. Frank is fortunate that his wife Cyndi shares this feeling and allows Frank to travel to perpetuate his art and his life's passion. Frank always says that the reason why he likes to travel so much is that he likes to come home.
Many moments come to mind regarding these road trips. There are too many to mention. Many kindred spirits have been cultivated through these travels and never has there been a regret over the expense or time it took to fulfill these missions.
At one time, while Frank was on a business trip, he drove from Dubuque, Iowa, through Wisconsin to Chicago, Illinois to catch a Monday evening class by Prof Pat Browne. After class Frank and Prof Browne talked for many, many hours. Four months later Prof Browne passed on. Frank was glad he made that trip. Obviously, there was something very unique about it.
Another time, while Frank's family was traveling in Rome seeing things like the colosseum, the forum and other great wonders of man, Frank spent the day going from smelly gym to smelly gym with Prof Tioli. His family thought he was nuts. Cyndi, his wife explained to them, "He has to do this, he can't come all the way to Rome without seeing Prof Tioli, he's the wandering uke." His family still didn't get it.
During 1992 Frank received a year's contract to work for Spectra Physics in Fremont, Ca. Frank visited as many dojos as possible and developed many life long relationships during that time. This list begins with becoming very close with the legendary Prof Sig Kufferath and goes on from there.
During 1993 through 1996, Frank was Editor of the Kiai Echo…the American Judo and Jujitsu Federation Newsletter. As editor, Frank conveniently began cataloging many of his trips. He developed a by-line under the pseudo name of wandering uke. That name remains in place today and Frank continues to write for martial art magazines and newsletters under that pen name. Frank enjoys the literary arts and dabbles in the formation of words as well, hoping some day to produce a manuscript of sorts.
He loves knocking on dojo doors, boldly entering and walking in alone with a message of peace and a true martial spirit. But Frank says the real magic happens when you leave a dojo. This could be your own training ground as well.
Picture this…it is fall, maybe the end of October, there's witchery and perhaps a little lunacy in the air. There is an obvious moon above you. Class is over and you're walking toward you car. Leaves are rustling. There's a formidable wind. Your gi bag is slung over your shoulder. Your breath is clean and pure. You're mentally and physically tired from the class and from the day. You smile to yourself, another day done. Mushin/Zanshin/Chushi/Munen Musow...the void...it is all one. Nothing more, nothing less.
Frank, and his wife Cyndi, share their home often with fellow wanderers and invite many instructors to High Sierra Jujitsu on a routine basis to share their knowledge.
All who wander are not lost.
Frank Ferris, Godan, Dan Zan Ryu Jujitsu
High Sierra Jujitsu, Sensei
050505