"True karate-do is this; that in daily life one's mind and body be trained and developed in a spirit of humility; and that in critical times, one be devoted utterly to the cause of justice." - Gichin Funakoshi, Karate-do Kyohan
This article will concern itself with the business of teaching martial arts. The teaching of martial arts concerns itself with helping others. It is not necessarily wrong to make a living on the arts, but we must keep in mind that prestige is nothing if one does not set a good example.
We can not have desirable progress in the "martial ways" or peace and happiness without mutual respect. To ensure continued progress in the effectiveness of philosophy and technique of our own arts, we must study our arts diligently while opening our minds to other perspectives. In this way, teachers must set an example for their students by being an excellent one themselves. This level of modesty takes years to cultivate through proper etiquette - and is one of the ultimate goals of our training. It is said that to have taught once is to have twice learned.
We must be of good conscience when considering our talents and faults. Before we can realize our full potential in teaching others, we must honestly and modestly learn our own strengths and weaknesses. Let us look at ourselves in the mirrors of truth, good standards, and absoluteness, while chasing the rainbow of perfection.
"The technique of the martial arts is like the universe - there is no limit to knowledge. One must realize no limit to one's performance." - Hironori Ohtsuka, founder of Wado ryu Karate
Most of all, we must be respectful. This might sound cliché; however, we must remember to have and give respect as least as much as we get it. Modesty is key.
It is easy to lose modesty under a pile of well-practiced technique. Keep in mind, however, that without modesty of character, you have gained nothing from training. We learn to fight so as not to fight. There are no winners in war - only losers. We must fight against fighting - to have the least possible bloodshed. With this in mind, we must punch and kick not to win or lose, but to learn from each other in martial brotherhood.
"Have no regard for the martial aspects when training, but rather adhere to the way of peace." - Hironori Ohtsuka
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The author lives in Lake City, South Carolina, where he also runs his martial arts, video games, and anime store, and does graphic design in his spare time.
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