There are instructors who teach you how to learn the techniques of karate, making them inch perfect, and there are instructors who teach the techniques alongside the underlying principles. Helping you find a deeper understanding.
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But to truly grasp all that karate has to offer – for genuine proficiency – I believe you also need those who guide you on the ‘Way of Karate’: a path of self-discovery that develops not only the physical but also the mind and spirit.
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To me, the true teachers – the ones who go that extra mile – are not merely skilled martial artists or effective instructors, they are role models. They inspire and push us beyond our comfort zones, not just in karate but in everyday life too.
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For those fortunate enough to have such a teacher, the experience is a gift – a source of motivation – and perhaps you want to emulate them and become a teacher yourself, carrying the torch of knowledge forward to others.
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However, remember that your teacher’s guidance won’t always be there. Many of those I was fortunate to call sensei are no longer with us. And I know that life’s demands can pull you in many directions, but you must prioritize your training, your practice, and your commitment. Your sensei – the one you’ve looked up to for so many years – won’t always be there to offer you advice.
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As my sensei once said:
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“The demands of life may sometimes outweigh the desire to train, and finding time for dedicated practice can be a struggle. I understand. Life is a journey, and karate is just one part of it. The path of improvement is not always straight, and the rewards along the way are milestones you may never reach if you don’t practice enough. I hope you understand.”
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These words, though simple, carry an important message. They remind us that true dedication requires conscious effort and commitment. The path we walk is ultimately about self-discovery, and it’s up to each one of us to decide how deeply we wish to immerse ourselves in the experience.
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“The real learning starts when you take what I’ve taught you and turn it into your own understanding.”