Daily Martial Arts Reflection

 The Quiet Warrior

“The strongest martial artist is often the one who has nothing to prove.”

When we first begin martial arts, strength can seem easy to understand. We see powerful techniques, speed, physical conditioning and the ability to defend ourselves.

But the longer we walk the martial path, the more our understanding of strength begins to change.

Real strength becomes quieter.

It is found in the student who accepts correction without making excuses. It is found in the senior martial artist who treats a beginner with respect. It is found in the person who has the ability to fight but possesses enough self-control to walk away.

There comes a point in our training when we realise that the greatest opponent was never standing across from us.

It was our own impatience.

Our anger.

Our fear.

Our pride.

Our ego.

Defeating another person may demonstrate skill. Learning to master ourselves demonstrates character.

This is why the martial path should make us quieter rather than louder. As our ability grows, so should our humility. As our confidence increases, our need to prove ourselves should decrease.

The quiet warrior does not need recognition.

He simply continues training.

The highest level of martial arts is not learning how to control another person. It is learning how to control yourself. 🥋

Inspired by the teachings of The Quiet Warrior and Walking the Martial Path Quietly.

— Renshi Mornè Johan Slabbert

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