(1 minute 55 second read)

I have been involved in traditional karate for over five decades, respect is a concept I hold dear. It’s the foundation upon which the martial arts are built upon.
.
The other day, a stranger called me “lad” (he didn’t know me), amongst other things. Apparently he took umbrage with something I wrote in one of my articles, and demanded that I show him respect.
.
It was a stark reminder that sometimes, the true test of respect lies not in bowing to authority, but in recognizing genuine respect and responding accordingly.
.
My journey in karate began at 14 years of age. Every step of the way, respect was paramount. We bowed to the dojo, our instructors, and our fellow students, and I still do.
.
It isn’t mindless obedience; it was a way of acknowledging the shared path we are all on, the dedication required, and the lessons learned. Respect isn’t a trophy to earn, but a continuous practice.
.
This encounter however, felt like the opposite. Here was someone wielding his supposed martial arts credentials at me as a weapon to demand respect, rather than demonstrating it himself.
.
True respect isn’t something you can force. It’s earned through humility, through acknowledging another person’s journey, regardless of age or experience.
.
Perhaps this individual was insecure, needing to inflate his ego with empty boasts. Perhaps he genuinely misunderstood the core principles of the martial arts, however, he told me he was a ‘Judan’ (amongst the many other credentials he had).
.
Regardless, his actions highlighted a critical lesson: respect is a two-way street.
.
My years in karate have taught me to choose my battles wisely. In this case, a calm response, was the most respectful approach. It didn’t diminish my own experience or achievements; I simply refused to engage in a pointless display of dominance.
.
Here’s the truth: a lifetime in martial arts isn’t about proving yourself to strangers. It’s about self-discipline, inner strength, and the constant pursuit of proficiency.
.
It’s about respecting yourself, respecting your craft, and respecting the journey of others, no matter their age or perceived experience.
.
This person who demanded respect might have impressive credentials, but in that moment, he lacked the most important one: respect itself.
.
This encounter served as a valuable reminder. The martial arts are a lifelong pursuit, and the pursuit of respect is just as important as the pursuit of physical prowess and proficiency.
.
True respect isn’t something you demand; it’s something you demonstrate through your actions, on and off the mat.
.
尊敬すべき所は尊敬します – Sonkei subeki tokoro wa sonkei shimasu (In all things worthy of respect, we show respect).