Who Do You Need?

I bristle anytime someone uses the term ‘protocol’ or ‘tradition’ when it comes to something we do in kung fu. Lack of mindfulness when it comes to applying some of what people would describe as ‘strange’ practices in traditional martial arts is why most of the real value of training in the marital arts has been eradicated by modern entries in the martial arts realm.

One of our practices of kung fu has us using titles when we talk to people. Calling someone ‘Sifu’ labels them as a teacher of kung fu. My students call me Sifu Brinker in class and call me whatever they want outside of class. Sometimes a student blurs the line and starts calling me ‘Jeff’ in the office of the school.

As I told all my black belts during their class on Thursday, what you call someone has nothing to do with the ego of the person you are referring to. It is only a clear statement as to who you need in your life. If you need another Jeff in your life, call me Jeff. If you need a Sifu Brinker in your life, call me Sifu Brinker. If you call my teacher (Master Macdonald) by his first name - Brian, you are saying you don’t need a Master Macdonald in your life and if you do not need a Master Macdonald, you certainly do not need a Sifu Brinker.

How you refer to people says a lot about where you are and what you need. I am always retooling in the present moment and adjusting my perspective to reflect the circumstances of my present moment. I am eager to learn and I am a constant student. Brian Macdonald is the best friend I have on this planet and there are times when I need Brian in my life. The second I step on the mats, I am all about kung fu and when it comes to kung fu, I always need Master Macdonald.

“Have the humility to learn from those around you.” - John C. Maxwell (b. 1947)