April 1st, 2008
Black Belt Leaders & Champions understand that Martial Arts begins and ends with respect. It’s like being trained with a code of courtesy that leads to many ways to demonstrate respect. Whenever you bow, give positive responses and polite greetings, you express your respect and appreciation. I heard once that when a student bows to their senior, they not only show humility and respect but they bow right through their senior to the art. That is, they see the big picture. They understand that history, tradition, culture, and philosophy are all important to becoming a well rounded martial artist.
As children, we are taught early to be courteous and to have good manners. Sometimes the important lessons we learn early in life need to be repeated and even relearned. Courtesy is one of the core principles of becoming a great Black Belt Leader & Champion. It is one of the very first things you learn when you begin training in the Martial Arts. It separates us from most other activities. It is also something that is lacking in much of society today. Being courteous and respectful is a great way to make a first and lasting impression on others. It is a behavior and quality that will benefit any relationship, personal or professional.
Saying “PLEASE” and “THANK YOU”, looking someone in the eyes during conversation, these are all subtle and proper ways to show Black Belt Leadership manners and demonstrate courtesy. Becoming a great student of the martial arts takes practice, lots of practice. COURTESY takes practice as well, the good news is that we can all practice it daily, in and out of the dojo or dojang. If you are in school, at work, at home and especially at your academy, COURTESY is a great habit to develop. Our request for action is that you constantly practice your Black Belt Leadership manners and courteous behavior.
Be a Model of Respect and Courteous Behavior. Be a Black Belt Leader and Champion!!!