Existential, Karate?

A recent post by Michael Clarke mentions the word existential and how it applies to karate. When I pulled up this definition, "A philosophical theory or approach that emphasizes the existence of the individual person as a free and responsible agent determining their own development through acts of the will," I had to agree wholeheartedly. 

I believe this term applies because, as Mr. Clarke states, it "forms the very conduit by which karate is learned, understood, and developed into being a natural part of who we are." You can perceive this perspective any way that fits your philosophy of karate or martial arts practice and training but it is a very personal pursuit. 

Leaning karate is all about the individual. It is meant to be a personal journey and the full responsibility is completely on the individuals shoulders. He or she must bear that full responsibility if for no other reason than when applied in self-defense under principles vs. techniques its success or failure to protect is the individuals responsibility. It is not the sensei, it is not the sempai and it is not that of the kohai because whether you acquire the knowledge, proficiency and ability is up to the efforts and drive you put into it. You can follow or you can lead. You can allow yourself to simply follow the schools minimal criteria or you can seek out more and drive yourself for more for that is how you learn to defend yourself, to improve and to grow.

Your will, your drive, your self-discipline and your dedication will determine just how far you go, how much you learn and how well you apply it either in every day life or in conflict - regardless of whether a simple disagreement to the full blown violent attack.

Look at it as either, or or both, i.e. philosophical theory or philosophical approach. Remember that karate is a journey of self with byproducts that promote betterment. If it does not that it is simple a dance. Philosophical endeavors are always a personal journey for to have a philosophy is a perception, perspective, cultural belief that you acquire living your life - either for the good or the bad of self. What you project is the same and any discipline that provides a tool to achieve your goals is a good thing. 

Existential is karate, karate is existential and all disciplines of this nature are existential. The degree, depth and breadth is up to you. It always has been and always will be - just do it. 

Bibliography:

Clarke, Michael. "What's in a word?" Wednesday, 21 August 2013. http://shinseidokandojo.blogspot.com/2013/08/whats-in-word.html