17/07/2025
“It’s not about who’s skilled, it’s about who’s left.”
Many come to the Dōjō seeking instruction and training, but regardless of their aptitude, most disappear. There comes a time where they ‘hit a wall’ in their training both mentally and physically.
I see this struggle over and again, but they eventually give in to this hardship rather than persevere and overcome their temporary paralysis.
Those that last, even if not always naturally gifted or highly skilled, innately have the fortitude and ability to continue in the training, understanding that the challenges they face are not obstacles to make them quit, but necessary points for greater growth and understanding.
Ultimately, being a Budoka is about having a character of deep convictions and a disposition of postive self criticism toward bettering one’s life. Those that just want to fight or have a simplistic and superficial understanding of Budô will never reach any depth of personal growth in the arts, but forever be trapped by their limiting beliefs and personal desires, which in turn, often results in their lack of endurance and continuance.
Budô is nowadays open to everyone, but this doesn’t mean everyone is open to ( or can do ) Budô. I see people enter with great excitement and enthusiasm, joining the Dōjō and then just disappearing after two or three classes. I see straight away they are not going to last, but I let them do what they want. I’m never surprised when they leave. I could write a book on the excuses. Lol.
People also enter the Dōjō and say they have done all types of martial arts or practices over many years on their enrolment forms. What they write explains nothing to me. I just wait to see them move on the tatami. Their written claims never match what I observe.
The Dōjō is a place for honesty and penance.
As humans we are frail in mind and body, and we lack discipline. We all need training to realise our shortcomings and forge the skills to overcome them. I’ve made mistakes, and still do. However, I quickly do my best to rectify them and do my penance. You either take the responsibility or you lay blame to others or elsewhere, and remain in denial. It’s your choice.
Your growth is your responsibility and yours alone.
南虎