[Ronin]

Hi Steve, excellent thread and well thought out for a person with your experience in the martial arts. By the way , that is not stated as a criticism but as a complement to your unique ability to intuitively see things for what they really are.

However, I wanted to bring out in this forum a thought that was lurking in the background of your message that no one else has mentioned. I do this from the experience of being a Black Belt in the Japanese art of Aikido for 24 years as well as being accomplished in several other martial arts.

I think your note hit right on the concepts of mastery, discipline, and the willingness to come back and get your head handed to you day after day in practice. The Japanese have a saying for this called 'shuygo'. The english translation means participating in the daily battle no matter how tired you are in order to bring out the best of what you have to offer. Its kind of like peeling an artichoke to get to the best part of the meat. I think all endeavors whether business, academics, martial arts or relationships, you have to be willing to put your self on the line day after to day to master yourself and what your passion in life is.

However, herein lies the catch. Becoming a Black Belt does not mean mastery. In the martial arts and for those who have practice many years, the Black Belt is associated with being a beginner. You have the tools to get started on the path however, your journey towards mastery begins. You see , we as a western society , are so fast paced, competitive, and in a hurry to get through the check list of things we want to accomplish that we do not become masters in any particular venue or pursuit. The majority of people are not willing to put in the number of years and possible lifetime to become considered accomplished . Thats why I always smile when people ask me how long will it take to become a Black Belt. You see , the people only see the belt as the accomplishment but in reality it takes a lifetime. How many people do you know want to spend that amount of time to be a master? A couple of the forum folks mentioned George Leanords -Art of Mastery. He is an Aikidoist himself with over 30 years of practice. He states the same a more eloquently than I.

This leads to my last comment. In order to commit to such adversity and to be disciplined to show up night after night, you have to feel some passion for what you are doing. I think this eventually weeds out the wannabes from the true folks who are committed to seeking this path whether martial arts, work or whatever.

So those who are wondering what the probability or stat would take to become a Black Belt. Just go to your local martial arts store or internet and buy one. For those who want to be an expert or Master, it will take a lifetime.

Thanks for article and the line