(2 minute 5 second read)

Within the martial arts there are many types of people. Some have morals and are good people that you can rely upon, and others…….well, not quite so much.
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You would think that historically, where character traits such as honor, integrity, courtesy, perseverance, and an unbreakable spirit, are held in such high regard, that you wouldn’t see many practitioners who fall short of these standards.
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Throughout my years of training, I’ve been privileged to cross paths with and learn from some of the most exceptional practitioners and instructors.
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However, regrettably, I’ve also encountered individuals whom I’ve tried to steer clear of, though not always successfully.
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For me, ethics and having a high standard of integrity, should be an integral part of the study of any martial art, setting the moral guidelines for all practitioners, from the novice student to experienced instructors.
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While many instructors emphasize ethics through a “Budo creed” or similar pledges, the most impactful transmission of these values should occur when students witness them demonstrated through their instructors’ actions.
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Memorizing a creed, or student oath, does little for the development of these social principles if they are not demonstrated by example.
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A proficient martial artist, especially one of high rank and title, should not only excel physically, for their age, and possess extensive knowledge of their art, but also uphold high moral and social standards.
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It’s incumbent upon instructors not only to cultivate skilled practitioners but also be ambassadors for their style or group.
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While most instructors can demonstrate physical techniques, it’s much more challenging to be able to provide students with a model of high ethics and upstanding integrity, both inside and outside the dojo.
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Students naturally gravitate towards their teachers, viewing them as paragons of skill and conduct. This underscores the immense responsibility instructors, or any teacher, holds, as their behaviors and attitudes profoundly impact their students.
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This can be noteworthy if the instructor displays all those qualities mentioned, but can also be potentially disastrous should the instructor display many of society’s lesser qualities and fall victim to its many vices (you know who you are).
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Humility does not come easily for some, often they will profess to be “without ego”, but this lack of humility also results in a lack of willingness, or ability to learn, or accept anything new or different.
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Unfortunately, there are those who prioritize ambition and self-promotion, often at the expense of integrity and friendship. Observing this decline in ethical standards is truly disheartening, especially considering I’ve seen it firsthand, even quite recently.
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True proficiency goes beyond the dojo walls, and while physical skill and technique are integral, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. The true essence of a martial artist lies in their unwavering dedication to ethical principles. It’s about living with integrity, respect, and a moral compass that guides their every step.
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“What you leave behind is not what is etched in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.” – Pericles
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