Seize the Moment
Seize the Moment
Patience is the essential quality of a man. –KWAI-KOO-TSU Chinese Philosopher
The Samurai class of Japan was known for their fanatical devotion to their lords, as they were expected to offer their lives at any given moment. To westerners it would seem that these warriors had little or no appreciation for the value of life. In fact the truth was quite the opposite.
Knowing that they could be asked to die at a command from their lord, the Samurai lived each day as if it were their last, living life to the fullest. The Samurai would give every ounce of effort and the fullest attention to every aspect of their daily lives. This Samurai way of life has its roots in the teachings of Zen Buddhism. This way is the model for how karate students should approach their training and also how students should live their lives.
Zen philosophy teaches us that we must make the most of every second we have available. Each second is precious as it makes up the fabric of our waking lives. Our time that we spend training at the dojo must be treated in the same manner. When you come to the Dojo, leave everything that is clouding your mind at the door with your shoes. This is your time, so make the most of it. Put as much effort and diligence into your training as it will produce superior results.
Like the Samurai of ages past, students of Karate must be patient and diligent. We must focus on the task at hand. Remember to concentrate only on what you are doing at the moment you are doing it. Do not let your mind wander and stay focused.
It can be difficult to keep a continual level of intensity, so pace yourself and do not give up. This is a time of year when we have opportunities for vacations and travel. Rest and recreation is important and healthy for everyone, but do not be lazy. Remember to make time for your training as it is the only answer to improvement.
The skills we retain through continual practice must be nurtured on a regular basis. Make time to practice with whatever time you have available. In the same way a musician or an artist must practice frequently to retain their skill, the Karate student must practice in the same manner.
I would urge all students regardless of rank to seize every moment possible. Students should not only make the most of their karate training but make the most of all other aspects of life. No matter where you are, put forth your best effort at being the best person you can be.
On a personal note, I am very proud of our school and feel privileged to be surrounded by so many wonderful people. I have seen so many new students accomplish amazing things and am very proud of them. I only wish for the success and happiness of all our students. Please do not forget to make time for your training and seize every moment possible. I know you will be glad that you did.
Patience is the essential quality of a man. –KWAI-KOO-TSU Chinese Philosopher
The Samurai class of Japan was known for their fanatical devotion to their lords, as they were expected to offer their lives at any given moment. To westerners it would seem that these warriors had little or no appreciation for the value of life. In fact the truth was quite the opposite.
Knowing that they could be asked to die at a command from their lord, the Samurai lived each day as if it were their last, living life to the fullest. The Samurai would give every ounce of effort and the fullest attention to every aspect of their daily lives. This Samurai way of life has its roots in the teachings of Zen Buddhism. This way is the model for how karate students should approach their training and also how students should live their lives.
Zen philosophy teaches us that we must make the most of every second we have available. Each second is precious as it makes up the fabric of our waking lives. Our time that we spend training at the dojo must be treated in the same manner. When you come to the Dojo, leave everything that is clouding your mind at the door with your shoes. This is your time, so make the most of it. Put as much effort and diligence into your training as it will produce superior results.
Like the Samurai of ages past, students of Karate must be patient and diligent. We must focus on the task at hand. Remember to concentrate only on what you are doing at the moment you are doing it. Do not let your mind wander and stay focused.
It can be difficult to keep a continual level of intensity, so pace yourself and do not give up. This is a time of year when we have opportunities for vacations and travel. Rest and recreation is important and healthy for everyone, but do not be lazy. Remember to make time for your training as it is the only answer to improvement.
The skills we retain through continual practice must be nurtured on a regular basis. Make time to practice with whatever time you have available. In the same way a musician or an artist must practice frequently to retain their skill, the Karate student must practice in the same manner.
I would urge all students regardless of rank to seize every moment possible. Students should not only make the most of their karate training but make the most of all other aspects of life. No matter where you are, put forth your best effort at being the best person you can be.
On a personal note, I am very proud of our school and feel privileged to be surrounded by so many wonderful people. I have seen so many new students accomplish amazing things and am very proud of them. I only wish for the success and happiness of all our students. Please do not forget to make time for your training and seize every moment possible. I know you will be glad that you did.
posted by Jake Richtsmeier at 11:11 AM
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