Training to Learn

We begin training to learn something.  We have a curiosity, maybe even a passion, we wish to explore and expand. Sometimes the original intent of our training distorts and changes without us even being aware. Sometimes our training becomes about the recognition we receive, like a certificate, rather than the skill and knowledge the certificate is supposed to represent.

In kung fu you can train to learn or train to grade. These are not the same thing. If you are looking for a black belt, they are easy to purchase. If you’re looking for mastery, well that is a different animal all together. Step up, open your eyes and embrace the wonder.

“A Black Belt should be a reflection of what is inside, not the proof of it.” - Robert Dallmann 

Time

Sometimes it is impossible to put thoughts into words. I have had more alone time in the past 72 hours than I have had in the past six years. Time to reflect. Time to regroup. Time to mourn. Time for gratitude. Time for rage.

There are things I would give anything to change. Instead of letting my frustration feed my rage I will remain grateful for what I have had. Mostly.

“I know you are there and I am very happy” - Thich Nhat Hanh (b. 1926)

Be Bold

COVID-19 has had the biggest impact on the status quo than any other event in my lifetime. The pandemic has changed the way we do everything. The challenge of the situation has brought some of us closer together while it has also deepened the divide for many. I think a catastrophic event of this magnitude will always bring out the best and the worst in each of us.

While COVID-19 has been a horrible plague, especially for our most vulnerable citizens, I actually think the pandemic has improved the level of service my students are receiving from me. My day today highlighted the impact the pandemic has had on my professional life.

Prior to eating my breakfast I met with a couple of students for private lessons. By noon I was able to remotely correct one of my black belt candidates on the form they were practicing during open training at the kwoon. Today was a very productive day both professionally and personally. I was very productive while spending the entire day at home with my family. My dog never left my side.

Being forced to operate outside old paradigms has created opportunities to improve the quality of my life. I am adapting and boldly proceeding.

“Proceed and be bold.” - Samuel Mockbee (1944 - 2001)

Everything Is Useful

I am the biggest Bruce Lee fan ever but his famous quote about absorbing what is useful and rejecting what is useless has led too many people astray. 

If you are going to follow someone’s advice, at least give the advice context by understanding a little bit about the person who said it. Bruce Lee was an expert in king fu when he died at only 32 years old. He had a mountain of experience and knowledge in his repertoire, all supported by a complete system in Wing Chun. Once you have a system behind you (black belt) it is normal to seek more knowledge outside of your system to help improve yourself. Of course you may find some knowledge more useful than other knowledge when it comes to enhancing your existing system. Keep the the useful stuff and reject the useless stuff. No problem. 

The problem comes when people begin their martial arts training by following this philosophy. Everything is useless when you start. You are a beginner, you suck at everything. If you’re going to reject what is useless you are going to reject almost everything. Nothing is useful until you make it useful through practice. 

Become an expert then decide what is useful to you and what is not. Don’t let your arrogance get in the way of your potential. 

“Take no thought of who is right or wrong or who is better than. Be not for or against.” - Bruce Lee (1940 - 1973)