Wednesday, July 10, 2013

On the Wisdom of the Master

One of my favorite things about martial arts is that moment when you hear the right thing, at the right time, from the right person, that will forever change your game.  Sometimes it’s a small detail that makes everything easier.  Sometimes it’s a mantra that will carry you through your most difficult workouts.  The most amazing thing is when it’s a philosophy that will move you to the next level.  Today I witnessed that moment happening and it made my heart smile.

“I work with principles, not techniques.  You can fill this gym with encyclopedias of techniques, who can retain all of that?  Every moment, every body, every situation is different and needs a different technique, but it will use the same principle.”  Makes since to most anybody, but there is a moment where something clicks and you understand that you know enough techniques and it’s time to start focusing on the principles. 

For the beginner, they only have instinct.  They need technique.  The "black belt" has an encyclopedia or two in his mind.  He understands the principles, but the mind can get clouded by the sheer volume of his techniques.  The master knows the techniques, and works in the principles.  Most importantly he knows the perfect moment to share the wisdom which will put a student on the road to becoming a master.

It’s not a matter of choosing to accept this wisdom.  It is a profound gift that cannot be denied.  The challenge comes in patience.  You can’t change everything in one moment, but one moment can change everything.

No comments :

Post a Comment