As a MA practitioner that is fairly new in this thing, I have become sort of disenchanted with the "my dad is stronger than your dad" comments that are posted with the facad of attempting to declare truth. Most comments seem IMO to, as Shiro has mentioned, been to point fingers. I agree with you Shiro and I do appreciate your posts. I think that however someone is priveleged to be able to have access the teachings of Takamatsu and Dr. Hatsumi is great. Again, I reiterate, 'however' one has the privelege of accessing their teachings. Traditional dojo, Long distance learning, Internet, however... There are pros and cons obviously to all aspects. Unfortunately, some can't attend a traditional dojo for cost or geographic reasons.
In my scenario, I have no other access to the my preferred style other than long distance learning. Perhaps one day there will be and I will definitely consider that as an option. This thread, as it is entitled, refers to my situation and for me, To-Shin Do is fits my personality, motives/intentions, and appetite for the arts of which we are all considered. Some choose to squander precious moments of life in their frivolous attempts at "declaring truth" - that is their perogotive. However I find myself blessed to have the teacher I do, and the method in which I am learning; and for that I am thankful. For the haters out there? Well, God bless you - whomever that may be for you...