A most difficult and complex question, what is the philosophy behind my practice of Karate-do. There are so many layers that it may not be possible to convey this in a post or even several postings.
Like life, Martial Arts practice, like the Laws of the Universe are all in constant state of flux; fluid, ever changing and so this philosophy is fluid; simply by the constant movement of the present moment. Each unique encounter at the exact present moment causes ripples changing this to something new, something more and that results in this as my philosophy of Karate-do.
On a very basic level my philosophical strategy is to approach my studies and practice with a critical-analytical open mind. I train to attain a calm, stoic, and detached mind so that all that is available can be received, without reservations, so that I may study the fundamentals of my morals and beliefs; so that I will understand the values, reason and existence of life and Tao, the Way.
Isshinryu Karate-do has become my fundamental system of beliefs as taught through its practice; in addition an accumulated knowledge acquired in the study of the Ancient Classics with a goal of acceptable values and beliefs that guide me in my day to day present moment encounters with both internal/spiritual and external/societal encounters, i.e. the studies and practices of karate-do and the ken-po goku-i with all that it entails at its deepest depth of limitless void.
I quote, "To become a wiser person who deals with life calmly and rationally; a person who will live a life of reason with equanimity; a person devoted to the study of the ancient classics thus providing for the following of the proper and accepted path according to the law of the ken-po goku-i (Tao) as determined by the relations of Heaven, Humanity, and Earth (I Ching and Ken-po Goku-i).”
By this philosophy I strive to achieve the ability to "inspire" others. I strive to achieve a deep understanding of the esoteric aspects of my training and practice along with the deeper skills and experience to teach the physical benefits; to provide the best guidance possible for those who choose to train/practice with me.
"What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us (in this moment).”
- unknown
“Study not to contradict and confute; nor to believe and take for granted; nor to find talk and discourse; but to weigh and consider..."
- Francis Bacon
Note: very little did I change this from when I first wrote it decades ago and I have to wonder if I am just facing dissonance and confirmation bias or was I able to perceive a philosophy in such a way that although the underlying meaning and essence may change that which is the surface of this writing remains, steadfast and true. Like found in the goku-i?
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