The Measure of a Martial Artist

What makes a great martial artist? Is it great skill in battle or the ability to win trophies at competition?Is it the ability to enroll hundreds of students at a school or technical precision? the answer is none of the above. What makes a great martial artist is humility, compassion and dedication.

The martial arts were originally designed as a method to protect one's self and others from aggression. The prize for victory was life; the penalty for failure was death. Firtunately times have changed and this is seldom a problem faced today by those who practice the martial arts. Over the years, the martial arts have become more than a system of fighting; the have evolved into a way of life.

It is said that with great power must come great compassion. The study of the martial arts gives one great power. It teaches one how to subdue, maim, or even kill if the need arises. With this power is also taught compassion. compassion for all life is one of the most valuable akills acquired when studying the martial way.

The arts also teach humility. It is in humility that one finds fulfillment. It is taught that to be boastful of one's skills and ability is to betray the very nature of the martial arts way.

The study of the martial arts also teaches dedication. the ability to persevere through trials and difficulties and overcome them, whether it is a belt test or personal crisis. It is said that he who perseveres shall overcome, and that a student that trains one day a week for life is better than one who trains seven days a week and quits after seven years.

These lessons and attitudes of the "way" are what makes a great martial artist -- not whether you can beat up this guy or win that competition; not whether tyour school has the most students or whether your technique is better than the next guy's. What makes a great martial artist is the ability to learn and practice compassion, humility and dedication in all aspects of life.

By Master Brian P. Kaumo, V Dan
Taken from the Green Dragon Dispatch, January 1, 1994