The Refinement of the Human Spirit
Matsubayashi-Ryu Virtual Dojo
| Through correct practice, the dedicated karate student obviously becomes fit and skilled. But, perhaps less obviously, the student also becomes happier, more gentle and more at peace – a refined human being. This is the true aim of our practice. It is only of marginal benefit to become highly skilled and highly fit if you can’t enjoy your life and get along well with your fellow human beings. Phil Kromka, 6th Dan, Renshi |
| The Quiet Mind and Innate Abilities While it may not be apparent, the ability to become a skilled martial artist and refined human being resides within every individual but, to varying degrees, our mental habits impede our progress. It is via thought that we observe an instructor and via thought that we get our body to perform various actions. The practice of the art shows us that our techniques are less than ideal. We need to look more closely at what the instructor is doing and we need to look more closely at what we are doing. So the correction of our technique has its inception in the refinement of our thinking. This refinement brings clarity. Clarity means clear and undisturbed. Undisturbed means we are at peace. When we experience peace, we enjoy our lives and get along well with our fellow human beings. Phil Kromka, 6th Dan, Renshi |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |