I remember long ago that the title of black belt had some mystical meaning that many Westerners equated to power and ability in fighting. When someone spoke up, "He's a black belt, watch out," usually sent chills of fear in one who was not "in the know." Today, if one spoke those words they might actually hear a response of, "So, I have three black belts in Aikido, Karate and MMA, so big deal."
I wonder what will be said in another thirty years regarding the coveted black belt, its status and its meaning to everyone, both uninitiated and initiated. It will in all probability remain convoluted and unimportant in the future unless the meaning and significance of a "black belt" returns to a more traditional meaning that everyone can agree upon.
When I got one I has pride in my personal accomplishments to achieve this recognition. The meaning then meant I has changed myself and assumed a greater role with the knowledge of Isshinryu setting in such a solid foundation that would allow me to grow and build a more stable personal house. Now, today, I can care less whether I wear one or just take off my shirt and shoes, go out on the training hall floor and practice/train in street pants and t-shirt.
The last time I wore a uniform and obi was for a promotion I presented to a solid karate-ka but I decided at that time to wear a special obi that was presented to me as a gift for a more philosophical standpoint, i.e. my efforts in this part along with gokui studies, etc. It was Zen like with smatterings of Buddhist, Confucian and Taoist traits. I have not worn it, any other obi or a karate-gi since but I practice and train every day. I use the term, "yudansha or dansha," when rank comes up. If pushed I say I was presented one around 1979 and after that folks can assume anything they wish as to its meaning, validity and efficiency in practice.
Anyway, what does the coveted "black belt" really mean today? What does it mean to your system? What does it mean to your Dojo? What does it mean, most importantly, to YOU? The contrasts to the answers might surprise you.
Postscript: It would appear that being/becoming a black belt has lost a lot of its mystery and meaning as to perceptions by both the public and its participants. It has come down to a status much like earning a certificate from an educational institute for say, "computer technician," or a two year degree in a particular discipline, i.e. like computer technician, etc. "Associate Degree"
To me becoming a black belt means opportunity! I feel as though I have come out of a corridor of grading focused training into a big light room full of new things to try. Without the pressure of regular gradings and having to stick mainly with the set syllabus I'm now free to explore martial arts more widely and personally. I feel like I am in the martial arts sweetshop!
ReplyDeleteI also now have the opportunity to develop myself in new ways - teaching for example which offers a whole new lot of challenges!
The number of hours I now spend training, teaching, thinking, reading, helping with martial arts has probably doubled since I got my black belt - there's just so much to do!
The black belt, or more importantly the skills and knowledge that I have learnt to achieve it, are a passport into newer and greater pastures. Wearing it isn't important, it's what it represents that matters.