I have had linkage with the martial arts community for many years and one of the things that helps to maintain that bond is my ongoing discovery of new thresholds and concepts.
Martial arts are many and varied although there are multiple common threads that one can recognize, no matter which particular school (or schools) one may decide to attend. Discipline and respect are core concepts in all well-run dojos, along with commitment, a strong work ethic, a drive to obtain knowledge and a tolerance for certain levels of physical discomfort.
Also available, for those who are willing to expand their personal horizons, are opportunities to explore philosophical and spiritual concepts that offer timeless lessons honed by many centuries of observation of the interactions between humans and of humans’ connections with their physical and spiritual environments. Not a bad example is the old television series “Kung Fu” starring David Carradine. Even though many might regard the plot line and episodes as simplistic, the concept of the “warrior priest” is threaded throughout many different cultures and their martial arts. Contrasted with the cult-like popularity of the Bruce Lee – style martial arts films, “Kung Fu” offered more substance for thoughtful consideration.
My current martial arts instructor is an intelligent, educated man who teaches in many different ways, offering insight and education for all who are willing to maintain an open mind and forgo acceptance of popular/current dogma in exchange for investigation of more long-lived conceptual approaches. Contradictory, you say? Consider the following.
I was recently introduced to “footprintism”. You can Google this (or use any number of other search mechanisms) and become frustrated at the paucity of information available. Or, you can explore the term on a conceptual basis.
At the simplest level, this belief and value system can be described as being cognizant and respectful of the “footprint” one leaves on the milieu in which one exists. What is the effect of our actions on our family, our friends, our community, our environment?
It is immediately evident that such concerns are multi-layered and potentially far-reaching. How to make sense and organize such an enormous and wide-flung concept?
By opening yourself to your immediate surroundings, Grasshopper.
For many, the major barrier to pierce will be the culture-induced unwillingness to accept personal responsibility. That alone is perhaps the major cause of the failure and angst that prevent so many from reaching even a small level of their potential. “I can’t do that because ……” Substitute the word “won’t” for the word “can’t” and be prepared for some discomforting damage to your self-image.
But let us look at some examples.
Harsh words are deliberately used to manipulate the feelings of a loved one. Your personal footprint has expanded to affect another entity.
While driving under the influence of intoxicants your automobile is involved with another vehicle and the result is severe injuries that affect not only you, but several passengers in the other auto. Your footprint, for which you are responsible, has now affected many others from those who are also injured to the efforts of medical personnel and law enforcement personnel who are supported by taxes paid by the community.
A large company, of which you are the CEO, manufactures products whose existence are responsible for contaminants affecting the health of surrounding communities and far beyond.
Grim, eh? But …….
You volunteer to help provide meals for a family that has fallen on hard times due to extended illness of the breadwinners.
You give to charities of your choosing.
You volunteer to plant trees to help reforest areas that have been blighted by neglect or abuse.
You adopt a rescue dog.
You help a child learn to read.
All from choices that you decide upon while considering the impact that your personal footprint makes on your surroundings.
Can you learn this overnight? Nope, but history, tradition and exploration will help in the journey.
So what does this have to do with martial arts? A lot or a little, depending upon how willing one is to accept the gifts that a good teacher so freely and generously offers.
What does it have to do with life? Review all of the above …. repeatedly, if necessary.
