As we close off a productive summer of training, I think it is the perfect time to reflect on the values held dear by one of the fore father's of Karate, Matsumura Sōkon. Matsumura is at the top of many lineages of modern Karate, including Shotokan, Shito-Ryu, Shorin-Ryu, amongst others. It is important to note that many of our Okinawan Karate ancestors wholeheartedly believed that there is no fighting in Karate. Karate is to be used for self defence only. Even when defending oneself, the Karateka should refrain from any doing any unnecessary harm to an adversary, and attempt to de-escalate and dissuade wherever possible. A peaceful and humble mindset is the only way to prevent war.
To all those whose progress remains hampered by ego-related distractions, let humility - the spiritual cornerstone upon which Karate rests - serve to remind one to place virtue before vice, values before vanity and principles before personalities. -Matsumura Sōkon (1809 - 1899)
Comments