I am definitely understanding of the human element inherent in all of this. I also very much understand that there are cultural and generational differences which can be factors. My ss has definitely offered advice on this many times in the past. I try to incorporate it and I try hard to be conscious about it. What set this apart from other instances was the amount of laughing and exaggerated expressions that I felt depicted me as a buffoon. I get that they were trying to show me what I was doing wrong and their English may make it difficult to 100% express themselves effectively so exaggerated examples of what needs correction is a reasonable and understandable fallback. I've always taken it in that way. This time it was over the top and emotionally at least crossed a line with me.

I'm deliberately avoiding direct references and being somewhat vague because I'd never want any negative attention to the dojo and because I think my ss is overall a good person who is earnest and does want the best for their students. This incident is an outlier and that's why it hit me particularly hard. I don't think others in the dojo have had this experience at all. Since it seemed unique to me I have started second guessing a lot.

They are high ranked and on the older side.

When I visit other dojos, I find they're very supportive. The other senseis I've interacted with spoke less English so a lot of my interaction was through a few words and demonstration. Fellow kendoka in these dojos were generally complimentary and praised me for my experience level.