Posted by FERAL INSTINCT on August 11, 2002 at 02:49:23:
High ranking martial artists, especially those without the benefit of an oriental upbringing, often face a dilemma in their schools. On one hand, students are required to show great respect to their instructors. On the other hand, the instructors are expected to teach and discipline the students while demonstrating great humility and a lack of ego.
Of course there will be some instructors that will attempt to gain respect through fear, claims of greatness, and others through blind devotion.
I am sure this sounds familiar to some students.
I believe this happens because of our western ways of thinking.
In Asia respect begins early as a child. Respecting your elders as a motto. This respect is natural and earning it is not necessary. The respect is based on experience, not on abilities. Therefore, in the martial arts, a high ranking individual is respected for their rank (their experience), not for their physical abilities. This is often contrary to the western way of thinking where respect must usually be earned.
It is through the instructors dedication to helping the students that both sides of the equation equal out. With true dedication an instructor has for there art and students, humility and a lack of ego becomes an asset, not a liability, in maintianing the student's respect.
These are some thoughts students will ponder on during there life long investment into practicing martial arts.
Thank you, to those instructors that achieved such a high ranking respect amongst their students. I think you know who you are. I applaud you and your life long endeavors.
Practice with full intent. Peace.
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