Those who know me know I enjoy karate. Shotokan to be exact. I enjoy the physical exercise, camaraderie among participants and general sense of well being that it promotes. But there is more to it than that. There is a mental and almost spiritual component to it. You are able to check your mental cares at the door and relax for an hour or more. We all need that downtime. Without some sort of mental/meditative relaxation your mind gets all confounded. Karate is physical yes, but you concentrate on it much like you would reading, crossword puzzles or other things that challenge the mind. You mentally and physically fight with your body and mind to conform them into what you are trying to do. I didn't get this as a Yellow or Orange belt. Only after returning to karate after a three or four year absence did I finally as a Green belt begin to understand just how relaxing it can be.
Dojo Kun:
Seek Perfection of Character
Be Faithful
Endeavour
Respect Others
Refrain from Violent Behavior
After my last belt test I had to do a very introspective look. I failed to execute my Kata perfectly and was only awarded a half kyu...I was grateful for the half kyu, but saddened by the fact I did not achieve my goal. Then after class the next week, while I was still rather despondent about it, I began to think on the principals of karate. My mistake cost me a half kyu, but has caused me to seek to enjoy the journey more. I must seek to perfect my technique, myself and all the other things that karate strives to teach. Yes it will take me a little while longer reach my goal of black belt, but I am thankful I am a brown belt who has learn a few lessons about life and karate all from a few mistakes.
What breaks you makes you stronger.
k
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