"Keep to your Path, and nothing else will matter. When you lose your desire for things that do not matter, you will be free." - Morihei Ueshiba

 

Posted by ADAM CARTER on APR 24, 2024

"Keep to your Path, and nothing else will matter. When you lose your desire for things that do not matter, you will be free." - Morihei Ueshiba

 

(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).