Living the Dojang Hun
By Sabomnim Joshua Mitchell
As
human beings we are always in search of fulfillment. Looking for a means of
satisfying our insatiable desires. To want something better or to reach a
new level is an inherent part of our time on this earthly plane. So as martial
arts practitioners, it goes without saying that we want to improve our lives
and ourselves. We strive to kick faster, punch quicker, and to learn a new
form with hopes that when we attain the goal in mind that we will be complete,
happy, and satisfied. I personally find it quite ironic how we are given a
map to reach that
point of peace, where we can attain what many view as the unattainable the
first night we ever step foot into a Cha Yon Ryu dojang. This map I’ve
come to find out is so obvious and simple, we often overlook it and want,
need, desire something more complex as part of our training. So we train hard
and diligently during our class time and develop self-esteem and confidence
in ourselves with our new found ability of self defense. But after years of
training, our intensity can potentially wear off and we don’t feel the
same enthusiasm that we once did about our practice. Something is missing.
“I’m not getting the proper instruction” is the common thought.
“I want to learn this and want it my way” is often the runner
up to the previous thought. Thus, we are looking once again outside of ourselves
for that fulfillment. Who is going to provide it? How can I get it faster?
As we progress as martial artist we begin to understand what Grandmaster Kim
is saying when he mentions that we are given the tools as white belts to become
Masters. What does that mean we inquire? Meditate on that one a bit and maybe
we can begin to see the map that was laid out for us the first day we became
students of this beautiful art of Self-realization. Grandmaster Kim chose
to put such great emphasis on the school oath that we as students say it before
and after our practice. The search for that elusive “next level”
lies within the words of the Dojang Hun. If we chose to put more emphasis
on the meditation aspect of our Natural Way art form then we would find that
the answer lies within. Shutting out all external stimuli is a rare thing
to do outside of the confines of sleep. However in doing so, we can offer
ourselves time to look within to provide the opportunity for self- honesty.
Thus allowing us the clarity to ponder if we as martial artists are living
the Dojang Hun inside and outside of the class..
Kim Soo Karate of North Carolina 2008 - www.kimsookaratenc.com
