“If you have good manners, you can survive anywhere. Trouble comes to those who don’t have courtesy.” – Masahiro Nakamoto 10th dan Okinawa Dentou Kobudo
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In society a general definition of courtesy would be polite behavior that is well accepted in the society. This value holds great importance in the correct development of an individual. In karate training, courtesy is one of the values that are given great importance.
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Karate itself was developed where courtesy has always had great emphasis. Courtesy becomes a code that is necessary to follow during interaction with seniors, peers and instructors alike. Bowing to each other during karate symbolizes a sense of courtesy that is shared between all members.
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History teaches us that when a society loses the ability or willingness to value human dignity, it will eventually lose its willingness to protect the sanctity of human life as well. Courtesy and respect are what sets karate apart from just learning how to fight.
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Courtesy is rapidly disappearing in today’s modern society and culture (or rather, I should say that I believe the appreciation for the value of courtesy is rapidly disappearing). I also believe that we, who teach and practice the martial arts, are in a unique position to have a positive effect on society at large by teaching courtesy to our students…… And most importantly, I think it’s just the right thing to do.
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Do you teach courtesy in your martial arts school? Does it go beyond bowing at the beginning and end of class? 
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Quote from OKINAWA KARATE SPIRIT YouTube channel
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