Post by Sensei Justice on Dec 9, 2006 21:33:25 GMT -5
12. Do not think of winning Think rather of not losing
One thing you will often discover is that winning is not simple. Its the nature of man not to give up. However, one of the great things about karate one must always keep in mind is that we don't have to win if attacked. For us its not about winning its about living.
If losing means survival then so be it. Pride is a powerful alley but a foolish weapon. A wise man once said, "those who are smart and run away live again to fight another day." You may call him a idiot or a coward but breathing is better than not breathing.
People are bad to think or say because your a Black Belt it means you can kick this person butt. The answer to that is no. Because I wear a black belt means nothing like that. All the belt stands for is the time and understanding I have. The fact of the matter is the higher my belt rank the less often I should find myself on conflict.
The key to this Kun is simply that. If you win what do you prove? If you try to win and you can't because of size, surprise, weapons you run the risk of losing.... All we want to do is live if that means I lose my car, my money, or my watch then so be it. A loss is not the end of the world but taking unnecessary chances to try and win a fight or a conflict could be.
Be smart win if you can but not at all costs.
One thing you will often discover is that winning is not simple. Its the nature of man not to give up. However, one of the great things about karate one must always keep in mind is that we don't have to win if attacked. For us its not about winning its about living.
If losing means survival then so be it. Pride is a powerful alley but a foolish weapon. A wise man once said, "those who are smart and run away live again to fight another day." You may call him a idiot or a coward but breathing is better than not breathing.
People are bad to think or say because your a Black Belt it means you can kick this person butt. The answer to that is no. Because I wear a black belt means nothing like that. All the belt stands for is the time and understanding I have. The fact of the matter is the higher my belt rank the less often I should find myself on conflict.
The key to this Kun is simply that. If you win what do you prove? If you try to win and you can't because of size, surprise, weapons you run the risk of losing.... All we want to do is live if that means I lose my car, my money, or my watch then so be it. A loss is not the end of the world but taking unnecessary chances to try and win a fight or a conflict could be.
Be smart win if you can but not at all costs.