being better people

[Dana Sheets]

If we consistently and unreservedly endeavor for right relationships
with our self, with others and with nature, we would bring out from
within us dignity and equity; compassion and selflessness; ethical
and moral quality; serenity and calmness = equaling the goodness
inherent in human nature.
Tony DiFilippo
Senior Karate-ka
Liberia

Compassion, like many other cognitive and affective skills, seems to be a quality that requires cultivation within humans. I am one who believes that compassion is a desirable quality and that through karate training you can learn compassion. You don't have to, but you can.

I train to be a better person than I was the day before, not just a better fighter but am I justified to invite the others I train with to join me on that journey?

[Stryke]

Of course Dana !! , but as long as it`s just an invitation as i`m sure it is .

It`s a noble Ideal .

I tend to think the enviroment , the work ethic , and hopefully example of the folks in general would be enough .

I see it more as helping your friends along much as they support me .

I havent been given any ways in my martial arts to specifically make people better , must of missed that class .

I tend to thnk this sort of thing should be every human beings responsibility to each other anyway .

If it occurs in class with the folks I choose to associate with hey ... even better .

[Dana Sheets]

Do you think self-improvement inherent to karate training?

[MikeK]

Define self improvement. The Japanese pre-WWII thought self improvement meant people being more nationalistic and more conformist. So while karate may have improved some selfs they weren't in the way we now would say was good.

[Stryke]

I`ve been following the discussion to Dana

I think self improvement can be a by product of success in martial arts .


strictly in my point of view the amount of personal introspection and effort it takes to succeed , and to get to a level of any profficeincy .

I think that it is a vehicle if you wish to use it as one , i however dont beleive it is the primary objective . Well at least not what it was designed for .

the secondary benifit (self improvemnt) that was observed and elevated , was a smuch IMHO a result of the cultural and political landscape of the time karate was thrust upon the world .

It`s true that fighting and strengthenng the body was considered a part of the education a gentleman (Bushi) should pursue .

So the answer is yes and no .

can we expect the same results without the same cultural setting and societal goals ? .

Maybe to a degree .

Should we expect a small part of Our life to have these results when in fact a larger picture (as in the way karate fit the mould and ethos of the day) is often needed .

So i`ll have to stick with it depends .

By itslef I dont beleive karate to be a character Builder for everyone , however some may use it for this purpouse .

I feel the same way about it and spirituality .

and to a degree the same about fighting ....

Once again karate is only a tool , and the value will always be found in the hands of the practiioner .

[Stryke]

i guess in summation

If you wish to help people become better people it will be your efforts , and not the karate that acheives this .

though karate could be the vehicle in which you do it , it is not inherent to the system technically , however you could argue it is philisophically and historically , But there could be alot of debate on this .

especially with the optimistic/cynics like me

[Dana Sheets]

the secondary benifit (self improvement) that was observed and elevated , was a smuch IMHO a result of the cultural and political landscape of the time karate was thrust upon the world .

In the mainstream, yes - there became a culture/cult of self-improvement when karate was introduced into the school system to help the youth become strong so they could be better soliders for the Emperor (common nails to reference Mike's question.)

However - according to the blue book translation from Mr. Smith, Kanbun Uechi founded a Buddhist society at the same time he opened (or was encouraged to open) his karate school. At first, the two were separate but all the members of the karate school were the members of the society.

When Kanbun et al emigrated back to Okinawa from Japan where eventually a new school was built in Futema. When he returned to Okinawa- the principles of the society were incorporated into the new karate school.

Now we're talking turn of the 20th century here - so not ancient history. But we are talking about the foundations of what became Uechi-Ryu. So when Kanbun returned from China he felt it was a part of what you did - you sought to become a better person and karate training was one element of that self-improvement. If he hadn't thought the two were closely linked he wouldn't have combined them when he moved to Futema. He would have kept them separate.

This is all pre-Funakoshi, pre-nationalization of karate, and all that. This is part of Kanbun Uechi's vision for martial arts.

Now - that doesn't require folks to believe the same or even seek the same. I, for one, think it is a fundamental part of the original curriculum of this system. Arm conditioning, Sanchin, Seisan, Sanseiryu, and self-improvment along the 8-fold path. Add the 8-fold path with the original four elements and you get 12 -- quite a harmonious number.

[Dana Sheets]

quick look:
The Eight Fold Path
#1 Right View
#2 Right Thought
#3 Right Speech
#4 Right Action
#5 Right Livelihood
#6 Right Effort
#7 Right Mindfulness
#8 Right Concentration

still short version:
source:
http://www.boloji.com/buddhism/00110.htm

The Eight Fold Path

Buddhism does not aim to explain God, creation or eternal concepts. Such truths can only be found within the heart of a person. Whatever one holds within the heart is what is. What Buddhism does aim to do is help us overcome the chaos of this world and point us to a path that leads us to our own spirituality. We are all searching for the same things- freedom from our pain and realizing who we truly are, deep within. The Buddha Siddharthe Guatama, in his contemplation, realized the truth about suffering and the path to liberation from it. This Eight-Fold Path and Four Noble Truths make up the foundation of Buddhism.

#1 Right View

The Four Noble Truths:

1. The truth about suffering is that it exists. Life is suffering. Birth, aging and dying is suffering.

2. Our reaching into the world of dreams, our desire to fulfill what cannot be fulfilled is what brings us our suffering.

3. Only when we have broken the mirrors of illusion can we end our suffering, and

4. the Eight-Fold Path can help us to break our habits of suffering.

When we are able to recognize suffering as it enters our lives, see that our own desires have brought us this pain, and understand that letting go of this desire can bring us peace we have attained Right View.

#2 Right Thought

Reality grows in the garden of the mind. Our world is the fruit of our thoughts that sprout from the seeds of ideas. We must therefore be discerning gardeners, looking carefully at what ideas we allow to take root within the mind. We must be able to recognize which ideas and thoughts are born of desire and which carry the seeds of desire that causes our suffering.

The seeds of suffering that take root within the mind are those of greed, ill-will, hostility, denigration, dominance, envy, jealousy, hypocrisy, fraud, obstinacy, presumption, conceit, arrogance, vanity and negligence. In Buddhism, these are known as the 15 defilements, and the Buddha realized 6 methods for removing such defilements from the mind:

1. Restraining:
Restrain from what pleases the senses but bears poison.

2. Using:
Use all that we are, all that we have, all there is to cultivate peace.

3. Tolerating:
Tolerate all adversity, and never abandon our gardens to the wild.

4. Avoiding:
Avoid all that is impure and spoils the soil of the mind. Tend only to what is pure and that which nurtures the pure.

5. Destroying:
Remove the defilements by destroying them from the root.

6. Developing:
Never cease to develop our skills of peacefulness.

#3 Right Speech

We are often judged by our words. Long after we leave this world, our words shall remain. Words can often be sharper than the blade of the sword, bringing harm to the spirit of a person which can cause wounds that are deeper and last longer than that of a dagger. Therefore, we must choose our words carefully. The Buddha realized 4 methods of speech that bring peace to our lives and the lives of those who surround us.

1. Words of Honesty:
Speaking without truth can be a means to our end and to the end of others. Therefore, honesty is always the best policy.

2. Words of Kindness:
Speaking words of kindness, we will never be the cause that divides hearts or puts brother against brother. We become peacemakers. Our words are cherished and valued and shall bring peacefulness to ourselves and to those surrounding us.

3. Words that are Nurturing:
Words that comfort rather than harm the heart, shall travel to the heart, and bring long lasting peace.

4. Words that are Worthy:
Speaking only what is worthy and valuable for the moment, our words will always be found sweet to the ears of others and shall always be considered in a peaceful manner. Words of gossip, untruth, and selfishness do not return to us with peace. The worth of our words is measured by how much they improve the silence.

#4 Right Action

All of our lives we have been instructed to do the right thing. Often we are perplexed with what is the right thing. Ultimately, we must decide for ourselves what is right- but often our judgment is clouded by the defilements of the mind. While upon the Eight-Fold path, we must remember that our aim is to end our suffering. All we do, comes back to us in one way or another, eventually. What may be the right thing for the moment may not be the right thing for the next. Although this moment is the only one that exists, we must not fail to realize that within this moment- the past, present and future are contained. The truly right does not change from moment to moment. Look deep within your own heart, and you will know what is right.

The Golden Rule in Buddhism is: Do no harm.

The Buddha practiced the following code of conduct in his own life:

1. Respect life

2. Earn all that you have

3. Control your desire, rather than allow desire to control you.

#5 Right Livelihood

Often when one begins practicing the ways of Peace, a time comes when lifestyle must be evaluated. In this life, we have the opportunity to liberate ourselves from the cycle of suffering and find peace. We also have the opportunity to help others break free. Does one's way of life support or hinder the ways of Peace? Only the heart knows.

#6 Right Effort

The path is not an easy one. Our habits of suffering are strong, and deeply imprinted in our way of life. It is difficult to maneuver peacefully in a world of chaos. Many of the things that we know we must let go of are things that we have held dearly for we have fought fiercely to obtain them. Our very own self- identity may have been formed with great personal sacrifice. Discipline and diligence is key to persevering on the path. Therefore, our decision to take up the path to liberation must be firm, and executed with right effort. When we have realized the truth of suffering, and are willing to seek liberation with the same tenacity as a drowning man struggles for a breath, then right effort has been attained.

#7 Right Mindfulness

Being mindful of the heart of matters can help us to overcome suffering with understanding. When sitting, laying or moving, being mindful of the following four frames of references are said by the Buddha to help us achieve great understanding, and can even help us unlock the secrets that are within our hearts.

1. The Body:
Paying attention to our physical being can help us direct the mind away from the distractions of the world. Focusing on our breath, our movements, our actions, our components, and on the sheer miracle of our physical existence we can arrive at calmness and clarity.

2. Feelings:
Paying attention to our external and internal feelings, observing their rise and fall, can help us realize their origination, development and decline. Understanding the nature of our feelings can help us let go and break our habits of clinging.

3. Mind:
Turning the mind upon itself, observing our thoughts, can help us realize the origination and aim of our thoughts. With this understanding, we can understand the nature of the mind and overcome our thought habits of suffering.

4. Mental Qualities:
Paying attention to our mental state of mind can help us recognize the five hindrances of our mentality (sensual desire, ill-will, laziness, anxiety and doubt). Observing their origination, development and decline, can help us realize how we can overcome them. By observing the origination, the components, the development, and the decline of things in regard to these frames of reference, we can find a deep understanding in the nature of ourselves, and to know our own hearts is to know the hearts of others.

#8 Right Concentration

As we sail through life, the winds of desire push us toward the Ocean of Suffering. But the skillful stand firm in virtue at the helm, directing the rudder of the mind toward peace. Single-minded concentration on the path to Peace (the Eight-Fold path) is right concentration. It is picking yourself up when you stumble and continuing onward. It is recognizing why you have fallen astray. It is recognizing when you are about to fall. It is continuing upon the path without hesitation or doubt. It is never ceasing to develop our skill in the way.[/code]

[Stryke]

Interesting Dana , I like Bhuddisim and If i was forced to identify with one beleif system it would probably be it .


Although it is integral perhaps to Kanbuns Uechi , i dont beleive it integral to the style .

though I`d respect anyone beleifs to practice this way , I beleive the confrontation of one self in a martial sense to be a differing path to the same goal .

Suffering exists
Suffering arises from attachment to desires
Suffering ceases when attachment to desire ceases
Freedom from suffering is possible by practicing the Eightfold Path

I prefer a simpler version of the truths .


The four noble truths are the essence of how karate can be used to improve character . It is because the truths are universal though , and not because of the association with Bhuddism IMHO

Three Qualities Eightfold Path
Wisdom (panna) Right View
Right Thought
Morality (sila) Right Speech
Right Action
Right Livelihood
Meditation (samadhi) Right Effort
Right Mindfulness
Right Contemplation



Bhuddisim is hugely interpretive , I could make a case for and against it`s inclusion

Just some random thoughts on a good subject .

If he hadn't thought the two were closely linked he wouldn't have combined them when he moved to Futema. He would have kept them separate.

It makes sense if it was his beleif system he would combine them , the same way many Christians find god in everything they do , including karate .

there are indeed complementary things between Bhudisim and Martial arts/budo

I guess the only thing I wonder is if you plan on teaching Bhuddism along with Uechi , and If so are your students aware ?

If not i`d say your teaching Uechi , and inspiring by example .... not IMHO the same thing .

strictly in my point of view the amount of personal introspection and effort it takes to succeed

this personal introspection IMHO can reveal some of the eightfold path , and in essence then yes it can help a person on there path .

[Dana Sheets]

I kind of look at teaching martial arts with the same lens I looked at being a bartender. If I am offering something to someone I am responsible for how it is packaged and delivered. I also feel a sense of responsibility to what they do with what I have given them (my choice.)

So when I was a bartender I had a nicely dressed gentleman who came in everyday and drank 3 beer specials with his lunch. After about a month of chatting with the man I asked him what he did. "I'm a surgeon over at the research hospital." "Oh really?" I said "That's wonderful, that's a wonderful job. So you're just getting off your shift?"

"No" he replied "Heading there now."
I felt the bottom drop out of my stomach.

That same week a large construction worker came in for lunch and had 2 or 3 Buds with his meal. He looked hot and tired...
"Hey Buddy, are you working on the new building across the street?" I asked.
"Yes - been a tough day."
"Oh" I said "working on the scaffolding?"
He shook his head no. "Nope, I'm running the crane. I've got five more hours of work after lunch. I'm pulling a double."

With that I broke into a nervous sweat. I quit being a bartender within the week. I couldn't serve alcohol to a man I knew was going to perform surgery on someone else and I couldn't serve alcohol to the man I knew was running the crane across the street and still sleep at night. I just couldn't play a part, even a small one, in the possibility of such a disaster.

Likewise as a teacher of martial arts I am not at ease with my conscience unless in addition to giving my students the movements and principles along with a good workout, I also give them them the opportunity to reflect on how they can use the training for personal improvement, why they might end up in a conflict, why they might need these tools, and how they can contribute to making the world around them a place where these tools aren't needed as often.

Right thought, right speech, right action - sounds like a great way to win a fight by avoiding a fight to me.

Am I teaching Buddhism? Nope. I wouldn't dare claim that - I hardly understand it. I use the principles of Buddhism to help students reflect on who they are and why they act the way they do in dojo and in the world. Which is what I'm doing. Doesn't always happen in class. Sometimes it happens at parties or after the workout over coffee or a beer. It is an inextricable part of my martial arts and if I didn't keep it in my training and my teaching I'd have trouble sleeping at night.

So the Buddhist principles are a convenient paradigm I use to examine the role of martial arts and fighting knowledge. It isn't the only paradigm (as you mentioned - folks do the same with Christianity and other belief systems) but I do think there needs to be a reflective element in training.

Maybe I'm wrong.

[Stryke]

Am I teaching Buddhism? Nope. I wouldn't dare claim that - I hardly understand it. I use the principles of Buddhism to help students reflect on who they are and why they act the way they do in dojo and in the world. Which is what I'm doing. Doesn't always happen in class. Sometimes it happens at parties or after the workout over coffee or a beer. It is an inextricable part of my martial arts and if I didn't keep it in my training and my teaching I'd have trouble sleeping at night.

I totally agree Dana , good thoughts .

I still would say your just being a good person effecting change , and that you as an individual deserve the credit , not the karate , or the tool you use to encourage this contemplation .

Good on ya !!

[2Green]

Hey Dana:

I applaud your decisions.
I work with, and have history with a very talented singer, a girl, who took up waitressing to pay the bills. However, she refused to serve alcohol and so became "only" a food waitress.
This woman has true character, treats her friends like gold and really thinks about what life is made of.
I was her piano player for over three years and never once ever saw her violate her principles.
She's a diamond, in my book.

Becoming a better person, to me, is all about two things:
Seeing the world as it really is:...and,
Seeing yourself as others do.

Two impossibly large tasks, but well worth chipping away in the pursuit.
What works for me is regularly evaluating where I'm at as far as habits, relations, family, work, etc., are concerned, and applying some time and interest to making these contacts better.

I've lost a number of friends/acquaintences in the last decade, and every time I go to another funeral, I think: "How will *I* be remembered?"
What will people say about me?
What kind of person was I?
Do any of my friends actually know what goes on in my mind, or will my innermost thoughts simply go to my grave with me because I never shared them?

So that's how I try to live my life...as if I'm looking back at it, like a friend at a funeral.
Except, the big difference is: I get to change it NOW, not looking back later with regrets.

One of the reasons I started training was the simple fact that very few people can look forward, but we can all look back.
Mr. Mattson expressed this concept most eloquently when he wrote:"New students wish to become old students, as quickly as possible."
I found this to be true.
If you had asked me seven years ago to "think forward seven years" I would have found it impossible.
And yet, thinking BACK seven years now, I remember my first night of training like just yesterday.

The point is, you have to START NOW... and time will pass. In the end, time will stop for you. You will leave behind a "legacy" which is "what your life accomplished"...not just for you, but for others.
Your life can help others...some you may have never actually met..

THAT'S what being a better person is all about: By no phoney affectations, and without any expectation of reward, you improve your own life, and so, those of the people you contact daily, just by being the way you are.

Late night ramblings. Hope it makes sense, hope the post is in context.

NM

[Stryke]

I`ll be a better person when me an Neil finally get to murder a few Keiths and talk about the stuff thats far better than MA !!

Nice Post Mate !

[Dana Sheets]

Yes indeedy - a good post.

Seeing the world as it really is

Which requires letting go of our preconceptions. However our preconceptions are the same things that help guide us through our decisions and make our choices. So it sets up a natural tension between what is "normal" or "expected" in certain situations vs what you believe to be the "right" or "correct" choice to make.

As such, in the absence of violent coercion, we are all absolutely alone when we decide.

We don't like that though. We like to say "he made me do this" or "she makes me angry" or "they're just so frustrating." Stories all.

While the title is a little geo-centric I really highly suggest this book:
Accidental Buddhist by Dinty W. Moor
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/038549 ... 5&v=glance

This is a very down to earth guy who plans on writing an article about the lives of people practicing Buddhism in the US and ends up trying to understand his own life better.

Buddhism asks you to look inwards and ask yourself about the motivation for your actions. Are you getting angry because you didn't get what you wanted or because you didn't do what you wanted to do? Why are you mad at someone you perceive as a barrier to what you want instead of spending your energy moving into action to find a different solution?

It goes on and on. When you see try to see the world as it really is it can be a very frustrating experience. Because you realize how little life actually revolves around you ... except for your own life - which is the only thing you control. Yet in our language we are constantly turning over our self-control to others.

Funny that.

[Dana Sheets]

I also think this effort of self-improvement and through that the improvement of society by the individual's contributions (even if that contribution is only modeling good choices for others) is the difference between a warrior and a thug, a sheepdog and a wolf...a life lived only for self-gratification or a life lived with a greater purpose.

My I am waxing poetic today aren't I? Somebody needs to give me a cookie or a gold star or something. Jeez.

Shiny Happy People
by R.E.M.

Shiny happy people laughing
Meet me in the crowd
People people
Throw your love around
Love me love me
Take it into town
Happy happy
Put it in the ground
Where the flowers grow
Gold and silver shine

Shiny happy people holding hands
Shiny happy people laughing

Everyone around love them, love them
Put it in your hands
Take it take it
There's no time to cry
Happy happy
Put it in your heart
Where tomorrow shines
Gold and silver shine

Shiny happy people holding hands
Shiny happy people laughing