10/05/2016
How hard it is....
How hard is it to be a martial artist? It's not that hard to write down, but it's very difficult to walk.
People enter the dojo with a sense of entitlement. They believe they already know something about the martial arts. Then the reality of training hits, and many disappear quickly. The idea of doing martial arts is very romantic for some, but few stay and endure long enough to break their fantasy.
The teacher often seems cruel and harsh, but this is a Military art. It is about walking a stony path until your ego is confronted and your capacity to accept the environment of the dojo is made. From there, a true love for training and budo can emerge, where one discovers their hidden or dormant ability to persevere within the chaos.
Those that give up are quick to blame the teacher or the art, when in fact, it is them.
The teacher is there to light the flame and give lessons to challenge growth. And, just like a snake shedding it's old skin, it can be long and difficult. The more you train and accept, the easier and more enjoyable training will be. But first, you must have the conviction to never give up.
As Soke says, "you must persevere to the very end!"
