Mystique, Mysticism, or Bullshit

Mystique: A fascinating aura of mystery, awe, and power surrounding someone or something; An air of secrecy surrounding a particular activity or subject that makes it impressive or baffling to those without specialized knowledge, etc.

Mysticism: Belief characterized by self-delusion or dreamy confusion of thought, esp. when based on the assumption of occult qualities or mysterious agencies; having an import not apparent to the senses nor obvious to the intelligence, etc.

Bullshit: a word for unacceptable behavior; talk through one's hat: speak insincerely or without regard for facts or truths; False or exaggerated statements made to impress the listener rather than deceive, etc.

I am not trying to imply that readers don't know the meaning of the words. I use these to connect a particular definition or definitions to the actual words I write explaining how that set of words relate to this system of martial art called Isshinryu.

What makes martial arts, at least in regards to when I began in mid-seventies, so alluring to its practitioners was the mystique by which they came about in this country. When you present someone some unique and mysterious activity related to the then mysticism of Asian origins of martial arts, i.e. Chinese due to Bruce Lee and Tae Kwon Do due to Chuck Norris as well as others of less notoriety we foster a following that is based on mystique, mystery/mysticism or just plain old bullshit.

I can say from my experiences with Isshinryu that a good portion of what is believed, taught, and practiced comes from stories that are not based on verifiable facts. Even the most acceptable source that uses personal conversations from second and third party sources - not the original person - leaves the facts and truth questionable.

The crux of many belief systems in martial arts arises from this. The reason, I believe, that even the most acceptable sources are not fully accepted by all practitioners is because we all can gleam perceived truth for our own second and third hand sources.

This will always be the case and will never reach a level of factual believe simply because there are no written historical facts either on Okinawa or within the family archives of the founder of our system. His second son was a solid source as to his perception of his father with a bit of forgiveness to accuracy simply because of language, belief, and custom barriers. We cannot possibly and fully understand his meaning simply because we can not relate with a solid background and history involving customs and beliefs.

I had hoped to experience one day a solidarity that transcended personal gain, ego, and pride that would unite and spread a more accurate teaching of the Isshinryu system. Alas, that will never come to pass. I can only guess that maybe Shimabuku Tatsuo Sensei wanted it that way or maybe his teachings were based on the Okinawan school system version of teaching karate because it filled a need. A need for the Military and his family need for income and economical stability in very difficult times. Tatsuo Sensei may have been the precursor to the American commercialized Isshinryu system taught today.

Then again, I could be totally wrong. In other words: "more bullshit!"

p.s I used a supposition to placate, can you tell me where it is and what it actually means? Just an exercise in GAVSD ;-)