Photo: Jjskarate
"Pain is the first lesson of a warrior - the pain of diligent training and self-less reflection on the essential dharma of the Tao. The second lesson is aloneness, wherein the true identity is unveiled and the path becomes a true friend and a heavy burden; in aloneness, the discomforts of a world humanity stand revealed. The third lesson is compassion from which the warrior recognizes that he is also a priest, and that brotherhood is not a condition which we must ponder - rather, a reality we must accept. All things are eternally one." - Thomas M. White
At the highest levels of training, martial arts such as tai chi, aikido and karate (among others), teach students to connect with all levels of being. These levels of being include our physical bodies, our emotions and our intellect. As the student advances, intuition and a deep awareness of one's self, one's opponent and one's environment become second nature. Its at this point that the student's daily practice becomes spiritual in nature.
Not all martial arts are taught from this perspective. Some martial arts teachers and students have egos and are self-centered in their training and practice. For those choosing the higher path, training and practice asks more of them. Those walking this difficult and honorable path become 'warriors of peace.' Warriors live in the present moment with full awareness. They balance inner and outer strength. They become mentors and protectors of the vulnerable. They both serve and lead.
Martial arts can be studied by the young and old alike and incorporated into one's spiritual development. For those not wishing to engage in the physical aspect of martial arts training, the non-physical aspects of study such as present moment awareness, focus, intent and self-less courage are open to all. The present moment is always the point of power and the place in which we connect deeply with our Creator. Regardless of age, background or ability we can all train to be warriors of peace.
Peace to all
Here is a small list of books featuring the higher aspects of martial arts practice. There are many more at your local bookstore:
Karate: the art of the empty self - Terrence Webster-Doyle
Kodo Ancient Ways: Lessons in the Spiritual Life of the Warrior/Martial Artist - Kensho Furuya
Three Golden Pearls on a String: The Esoteric Teachings of Karate-do and the Mystical Journey of a Warrior Priest - Thomas M. White
Beyond the Known: The Ultimate Goal of the Martial Arts - Tri Thong Dang
Living the Martial Way: A manual for the way a modern warrior should think - Forrest E. Morgan, Maj USAF
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