The lesson of humility

I realize I’m posting a lot of stuff from bullshido.net here. Let me say that I agree with the guys over there on some points (like making fun of ridiculous people and exposing frauds) but disagree on some others (the prevailing attitude that MMA > all, and a very Western materialist approach). I’m not a member, but they do provide some good laughs and the occasional fraudulent teacher shakedown.

So, to the point of this post: there is a parable in the Bible that I’m going to paraphrase because I can’t remember the reference off the top of my head (substandard journalism, I know). It basically goes like this: when you are invited to the big fancy dinner with lots of guests, take the “low” seat at the foot of the table. It’s far better to have the host say to you in front of everyone “No no no my friend, come sit up here with at the head of the table. We’ve saved the place of honor for you.” than “Could you please move to a different seat? This spot is being saved for someone important.”

This is a good lesson for martial artists in the West and why i think you have to be very careful about trying to run a commercial martial arts school. Some people make claims they can’t back up as to their skill or qualifications or whatever. Why? Enthusiasm for the art and desire to teach despite not really being prepared to be an instructor yet, need for an income and desire for self-employment, self esteem issues, enjoyment of the power and attention that comes from a group of people calling you Master, and many others. (I’m not quick to paint all unqualified masters as evil people out to steal your money and subvert your children. The situation is much more complicated than that and would require a lengthy Chinese medicine discussion on Shen disturbance and Phlegm Misting the Heart Orifices (in TCM parlance).

Anyway, with that in mind, here is an article that illustrates very clearly why you should walk softly and not claim honors you haven’t earned.