How many “household names” can you think of in 1 minute? 5, 10, 20 or more? Most of them are athletes, warriors, politicians, or scientists. Some of them are businessmen or ministers. All of them have had some great impact on the lives of thousands or millions of people. In the martial arts realm, we have our own list of well-known names that have shaped our arts and the perception of our arts throughout distant and recent history. Here are some examples:
Miyamoto Musashi – Author of “The Book of Five Rings” (circa 1600s) which is required reading in many dojos and is studied by even non-martial artists as a historical reference and treatise on strategy.
Jigoro Kano – Founder of the art of Judo. Kano introduced martial arts to the school system in Japan. His art was the first eastern martial art to be widely accepted in the western world.
Bruce Lee – Creator of the art of Jeet Kun Do. Responsible for much of the popularity of Chinese arts in the western world. His work in the film industry was the catalyst for an explosion of martial arts industry in the US and many other parts of the world.
Chuck Norris – Also best known for his on screen work, Norris played a huge role in the development of modern sport martial arts. The unique ways he promoted martial sports has shaped the way many competitions (including the UFC) are run. He is also responsible for inspiring many instructors to use their skills for charitable purposes such as inner city social change.
All of these people (along with many others) are considered legends in the martial arts realm. They continue to inspire and influence people all over the world. As we are inspired by these legends, it is hard to believe that they were once young, energetic, and sometimes foolish. Some of them were considered awkward or unlikely to succeed when they were children. The common thread through all of their lives is simple. At one point in time, each of them decided to take a single step into the door of a dojo. That step, along with many others that followed, was the beginning of their path to greatness.
This week, I witnessed 16 students take their first steps on a path of growth, and maybe, the path to an incredible legacy. They each worked hard and practiced on their art outside of class time to prepare for the test that was to be their first grading. Sixteen white belts trained for months and now have the honor of wearing a yellow belt! I know that may seem like a small thing to those who have been training for many years. But let’s not forget that each of us started in the same way. We each began our training with a single step. That first belt test probably seemed really frightening, but we persevered and completed it. It was easy for some, and harder for others, but all of us made the choice to challenge ourselves to become something better. The only difference between those 16 students and the legendary martial artists we all know about is time and effort.
As I walked out of the gym where I teach after the belt test, I realized that what I had just witnessed (and been a part of) was the birth of legends! I was humbled, and honored, and excited to think that maybe, just maybe, one of those students would go on to become another legend in the halls of dojo history. I will never see a belt test the same way again.
Fellow Instructors, though sometimes you may tire of teaching the same basic techniques to the rowdy, neighborhood kids or tentative adults, I challenge you to remember that every white belt that walks through your door has the potential to influence thousands or tens of thousands of lives for good. Invest in them, study them, and encourage them to become the best they can be.
Students, no matter how difficult the work, how awkward you feel, or what your friends may think - KEEP TRAINING! Choose to rise above the average existence. Become someone that others can look up to! Become a LEGEND!