THE WAY

          Martial art has two aspects; physical and spiritual.  The physical side of martial arts emphasizes on the toning of the body and the perfection of the techniques to the point where one can bring down the opponent with a single strike.  The spiritual side focuses on the discipline of the mind and spirit, the development of personal character, humility and respect for others. 

         Different martial arts place emphasis on different techniques; aikido and judo on throwing and grappling, karate and taekwando on strikes and kicks etc.  However, one common trait between the myriad forms of martial arts is the way to spiritual enlightenment.  All martial artists strive to develop strong discipline and character, humility and respect for others, especially towards their opponents.  At the end of the journey, what all martial artists seek for is an inner peace with oneself and harmony with nature.  

          People watch television and marvel at the grace, fluidity, speed and power of the techniques, the physical aspect of martial arts.  But what they do not see is the spiritual aspect.  Martial art is not about violence and aggression, nor is it merely a show where people attack each other aimlessly.  It is also definitely not a form of showing off when a man breaks bricks or other hard objects with his head or leg.  Rather it is about spiritual accomplishment and self-cultivation.  It is about respecting human life and using martial arts for justice.  This is not to say that the physical aspect of martial arts is not important. Both the physical and spiritual aspects are equally important.  It is only when one attains both the perfection of the physical form and the enlightenment of the spiritual form, then one can truly call himself or herself a martial artist.