The following was posted originally on her blog site, "The Bare Necessities", today and it resonates so nicely with what I try to learn from the study of the gokui, I-Ching, and other texts that I wanted to post it here for you all to read. If you click the link to her site, "Kathy", just click the title in parenthesis in the first sentence.
The Story:
There is a story about a Navajo grandfather who once told his grandson, "Two wolves live inside me. One is the bad wolf, full of greed and laziness, full of anger and jealousy and regret. The other is the good wolf, full of joy and compassion and willingness and a great love for the world. All the time, these wolves are fighting inside me." "But grandfather," the boy said. "Which wolf will win?" The grandfather answered, "The one I feed."
Which wolf do you feed?
To Meditate; Mokuso
Mokuso: A traditional practice performed at the beginning and end of Te training. It is meditation or sitting seiza with silent thoughts directed toward clearing the mind of outside influences and focusing them toward the training/practice in the training hall.
The I-Ching says, "To meditate denotes making a clear distinction between right and wrong through prudent consideration and steadfastness. In so doing, one should first become inwardly as firm as a rock."
The gokui is the tome that unlocks the true training of one's mind resulting in a strong body and a firm spirit. To follow its concepts of physical and spiritual connectivity to the tao one must first meditate to release the mind from past and future thoughts bringing us to this exact moment where nothing matters or exists but the actual occurrence of the present moment.
One trains in this singular form, Te, which can not be done with out the minds exclusive concentration and focus on Te's physical and spiritual practice. It is so evident when striking the makiwara or drilling in kumite where a moment of inattention in the moment results in immediate recognition of the fault. To do this in life would be tantamount to stepping off the curb to cross the street with out the mind being present and being hit by a car.
Mokuso is not just some requirement of the Sensei that you follow blindly just because everyone else is doing it but it is a method of training. All aspects both big and small which may "seem" a waste are actually a step toward enlightenment.
Gokui no Mokuso; Meditate on the gokui!
The I-Ching says, "To meditate denotes making a clear distinction between right and wrong through prudent consideration and steadfastness. In so doing, one should first become inwardly as firm as a rock."
The gokui is the tome that unlocks the true training of one's mind resulting in a strong body and a firm spirit. To follow its concepts of physical and spiritual connectivity to the tao one must first meditate to release the mind from past and future thoughts bringing us to this exact moment where nothing matters or exists but the actual occurrence of the present moment.
One trains in this singular form, Te, which can not be done with out the minds exclusive concentration and focus on Te's physical and spiritual practice. It is so evident when striking the makiwara or drilling in kumite where a moment of inattention in the moment results in immediate recognition of the fault. To do this in life would be tantamount to stepping off the curb to cross the street with out the mind being present and being hit by a car.
Mokuso is not just some requirement of the Sensei that you follow blindly just because everyone else is doing it but it is a method of training. All aspects both big and small which may "seem" a waste are actually a step toward enlightenment.
Gokui no Mokuso; Meditate on the gokui!
Earth
"Earth is the symbol of a multitude." says the I-Ching. This could mean society, a group, several persons gathering to form a cohesive "one."
To act in accord with the times and always moving forward is one way to follow the way of Heaven and Earth.
The I-Ching says, "Heaven and Earth move in accordance with the time; Therefore sun and moon do not deviate from their courses..." We gain strength from our ability to connect with the Earth.
The I-Ching warns against our pension to lean toward "self-satisfaction." To be humble and sincere is to be in harmony with the Universe, i.e. the heavens and the earth; the sun and the moon; our connectivity to the Earth which is symbolic of the multitudes; humanity.
To act in accord with the times and always moving forward is one way to follow the way of Heaven and Earth.
The I-Ching says, "Heaven and Earth move in accordance with the time; Therefore sun and moon do not deviate from their courses..." We gain strength from our ability to connect with the Earth.
The I-Ching warns against our pension to lean toward "self-satisfaction." To be humble and sincere is to be in harmony with the Universe, i.e. the heavens and the earth; the sun and the moon; our connectivity to the Earth which is symbolic of the multitudes; humanity.
Remaining Humble
"Working hard yet not showing off,
Having great accomplishments yet not feeling complacent,
Being honest and sincere to the utmost,
Indicates the person who has merit but still remains humble."
Having great accomplishments yet not feeling complacent,
Being honest and sincere to the utmost,
Indicates the person who has merit but still remains humble."
- Taoist Master Alfred Huang, The Complete I Ching
"Pull the cord and the light may not come on; but pull the cord!" - me
Wholeheartedly in Humility
"Humility is not an innate virtue; it must be cultivated over a long period of time."
"One who want to cultivate the quality of humility should first be humble at heart."
One who cultivates humility of heart sees it bloom in their outward conduct. Another reference to the need to point our efforts inward first and then let that training and development manifest itself outward so the world and all of humanity can see it.
Today we seem to forget the esoteric for the immediate gratification of the exoteric. To train in "Te" as a "Do or Way" we need to train ourselves starting from the heart so it may become more.
"One who want to cultivate the quality of humility should first be humble at heart."
One who cultivates humility of heart sees it bloom in their outward conduct. Another reference to the need to point our efforts inward first and then let that training and development manifest itself outward so the world and all of humanity can see it.
Today we seem to forget the esoteric for the immediate gratification of the exoteric. To train in "Te" as a "Do or Way" we need to train ourselves starting from the heart so it may become more.
Kenpo Gokui/I-Ching
"One should act positively by doing something with other people cooperatively and harmoniously. The key is to respect people and treat them equally. Only in this way can true peace and harmony be established in a community." - I-Ching Translation by Taoist Master Alfred Huang.
Community - a group of people living in a particular local area; The term Communion is derived from Latin communion (sharing in common). The corresponding term in Greek is koivwvia, which is often translated as "fellowship".
To me that is any two persons who join together to do something in a cooperative and harmonious manner. It can be a moment in time or it can be an ongoing endeavor where the community or communion of like souls grows into the many.
How does it grow into the many? One must understand the other(s) in many ways in order to know how to commune within the community. A person must work hard to learn about others so that they may enter into this communion of others with harmony and mutual cooperation.
Tatsuo Sensei expressed this many times over the years in the hopes that practitioners of his way of the wholeheartedly practice art of Okinawa Te would see the importance and provide effort in following that way to better understanding of one another.
Study the ancients for to learn from the past will help us not repeat bad things but to understand and bring about peace to all human kind. To connect to the Tao and its offerings. Simply open that doorway and walk through.
Community - a group of people living in a particular local area; The term Communion is derived from Latin communion (sharing in common). The corresponding term in Greek is koivwvia, which is often translated as "fellowship".
To me that is any two persons who join together to do something in a cooperative and harmonious manner. It can be a moment in time or it can be an ongoing endeavor where the community or communion of like souls grows into the many.
How does it grow into the many? One must understand the other(s) in many ways in order to know how to commune within the community. A person must work hard to learn about others so that they may enter into this communion of others with harmony and mutual cooperation.
Tatsuo Sensei expressed this many times over the years in the hopes that practitioners of his way of the wholeheartedly practice art of Okinawa Te would see the importance and provide effort in following that way to better understanding of one another.
Study the ancients for to learn from the past will help us not repeat bad things but to understand and bring about peace to all human kind. To connect to the Tao and its offerings. Simply open that doorway and walk through.
Humility
The ancients had great value which was placed upon the quality of humility. The I-Ching says:
"One should act positively by doing something with other people cooperatively and harmoniously. The key is to respect people and treat them equally. Only in this way can true peace and harmony be established in a community."
Tatsuo Sensei wanted to teach the "kenpo gokui" to his deshi but many Marines so intent on the sporting aspects and the great hurry to achieve the level black belt did not receive his guidance on this short tome to the I-Ching of "Te".
Those who actually received the silk gokui to this day still do not realize its significance. Many times it has been quoted that Tatsuo Sensei said we all have to learn about each other in order to be in harmony and get along.
The I-Ching expands on this and provides us with the ability to achieve harmony in society. Even tho the practice of "Te" is physically destructive we can balance out this by study of the gokui and its extensions to learn about each other starting in the training hall and then extending to society.
Is this not the true goal of "Te" and its singular practice towards the Way or Tao?
"One should act positively by doing something with other people cooperatively and harmoniously. The key is to respect people and treat them equally. Only in this way can true peace and harmony be established in a community."
Tatsuo Sensei wanted to teach the "kenpo gokui" to his deshi but many Marines so intent on the sporting aspects and the great hurry to achieve the level black belt did not receive his guidance on this short tome to the I-Ching of "Te".
Those who actually received the silk gokui to this day still do not realize its significance. Many times it has been quoted that Tatsuo Sensei said we all have to learn about each other in order to be in harmony and get along.
The I-Ching expands on this and provides us with the ability to achieve harmony in society. Even tho the practice of "Te" is physically destructive we can balance out this by study of the gokui and its extensions to learn about each other starting in the training hall and then extending to society.
Is this not the true goal of "Te" and its singular practice towards the Way or Tao?
A Persons Heart is the same as Heaven and Earth.
We can look at the heart as the balance of heaven and earth where heaven is the "mind", earth is the body and the heart is the spirit of man.
We harness the power of the mind to influence the body which is the first step to enlightenment. As the mind connects to the body and begins to expand through practice it teaches us how the mind leads and the body follows until we understand its influences thus allowing us to influence everything in our world.
The mind is "reality" for our perceptions dictate our beliefs and our beliefs through the power of the mind cause our reality to be what it is. Once we have accomplished mind-body-spirit unity within then we can expand our minds through the understanding of our fellow humans. To achieve a collective mind of many creating a single mind of humanity then we can truly influence our world.
Duality into singularity is a goal. The world consists of in-yo/yin-yang which can be constructive or destructive. Our choice in the path we follow. Our minds are duality as well with a thin fibrous material that separates one half from the other. We must see beyond the veil to the "one."
Our minds can generate great energy which has the capability to change us from within and has the capability to achieve greater levels of energy capable of transforming our bodies and our world. We can even control physical matter for to control and change the mind and body is changing the physical. The minds energy consists of matter which is influenced by energy.
There is an energy, call it the "force" if you wish, that is everything in our Universe. In pervades everything and is connected through strings of energy that jump from one to the other constantly much like the synapses of the brain where energy jumps from one connector to another.
We as Americans have lost our connection to the Universe and we insist of looking outside of ourselves for that connection when in reality we have it back asswards. We must first look within and change ourselves before we can be enlightened enough to begin connecting to humanity, nature, and the Universe. Once our minds are "one" with our bodies and the spirit has the chance to expand then it will begin to interconnect with all things as the Universe intended returning us to the Tao or the "one."
We find the easy path so much more enticing yet the true path is never easy to follow. It takes determination, focus, and intent to find the true path within each of us. It is so easy to destroy and so much harder to create yet to create from one's own hands is a greater feeling of accomplishment.
Look at the practice of "Te", it is on the surface such a destructive form yet if you allow the mind to see beyond its appearances then you can see that from within it truly provides a means to achieve enlightenment and it can great greatness.
Yang is the jutsu of Ti while the "Tao or Do" is the Yin of Te. If we focus exclusively on the Yang of Te then we become destructive and find it impossible to reach beyond the stars. If we focus just on the Yin of Te then we have no tool or way to bring about mind and body unity for a spirit that takes is higher than merely physical achievement. To achieve a balance of Yin-n-Yang in Te is to bring the mind, body, and spirit into "one." and then we can truly "see" humanity and by "hearing" others we achieve understanding that brings peace and tranquility to all.
This is what brings the importance of your convictions and intent to achieve a capability that combines intent and practice to achieve spirit or "heart."
capability = intent + practice [spirit = mind + body]
To train the mind takes practice for a well directed thought is a learned skill. This makes the proper use of Te such a valuable tool to achieve this. It is unique in its need to bring both the mind and body together to work until it achieves a wholeheartedly approach to practice and life. "oneness" in training is "oneness" in life.
In Te practice one must have intent which is a combination of focus, visualization and belief. It transforms ones perception and achieves a new reality.
We harness the power of the mind to influence the body which is the first step to enlightenment. As the mind connects to the body and begins to expand through practice it teaches us how the mind leads and the body follows until we understand its influences thus allowing us to influence everything in our world.
The mind is "reality" for our perceptions dictate our beliefs and our beliefs through the power of the mind cause our reality to be what it is. Once we have accomplished mind-body-spirit unity within then we can expand our minds through the understanding of our fellow humans. To achieve a collective mind of many creating a single mind of humanity then we can truly influence our world.
Duality into singularity is a goal. The world consists of in-yo/yin-yang which can be constructive or destructive. Our choice in the path we follow. Our minds are duality as well with a thin fibrous material that separates one half from the other. We must see beyond the veil to the "one."
Our minds can generate great energy which has the capability to change us from within and has the capability to achieve greater levels of energy capable of transforming our bodies and our world. We can even control physical matter for to control and change the mind and body is changing the physical. The minds energy consists of matter which is influenced by energy.
There is an energy, call it the "force" if you wish, that is everything in our Universe. In pervades everything and is connected through strings of energy that jump from one to the other constantly much like the synapses of the brain where energy jumps from one connector to another.
We as Americans have lost our connection to the Universe and we insist of looking outside of ourselves for that connection when in reality we have it back asswards. We must first look within and change ourselves before we can be enlightened enough to begin connecting to humanity, nature, and the Universe. Once our minds are "one" with our bodies and the spirit has the chance to expand then it will begin to interconnect with all things as the Universe intended returning us to the Tao or the "one."
We find the easy path so much more enticing yet the true path is never easy to follow. It takes determination, focus, and intent to find the true path within each of us. It is so easy to destroy and so much harder to create yet to create from one's own hands is a greater feeling of accomplishment.
Look at the practice of "Te", it is on the surface such a destructive form yet if you allow the mind to see beyond its appearances then you can see that from within it truly provides a means to achieve enlightenment and it can great greatness.
Yang is the jutsu of Ti while the "Tao or Do" is the Yin of Te. If we focus exclusively on the Yang of Te then we become destructive and find it impossible to reach beyond the stars. If we focus just on the Yin of Te then we have no tool or way to bring about mind and body unity for a spirit that takes is higher than merely physical achievement. To achieve a balance of Yin-n-Yang in Te is to bring the mind, body, and spirit into "one." and then we can truly "see" humanity and by "hearing" others we achieve understanding that brings peace and tranquility to all.
This is what brings the importance of your convictions and intent to achieve a capability that combines intent and practice to achieve spirit or "heart."
capability = intent + practice [spirit = mind + body]
To train the mind takes practice for a well directed thought is a learned skill. This makes the proper use of Te such a valuable tool to achieve this. It is unique in its need to bring both the mind and body together to work until it achieves a wholeheartedly approach to practice and life. "oneness" in training is "oneness" in life.
In Te practice one must have intent which is a combination of focus, visualization and belief. It transforms ones perception and achieves a new reality.
The Mind; Mind over Matter; and so on
I have posted on the mind as the main focus of training so that it will lead the spirit and body to enlightenment with a side of self-defense. I wish to propose some information for contemplation and comment as to the power of the mind.
It is believed that the mind has the ability to alter the state of matter. It has the power to push the physical world to move in a random direction with additional ability to actually move it in a specific direction.
It is also believed that the mind-spirit-body are connected to the Universes energy. Some believe that all things are connected or interconnected to form a unified mesh or what some call a "Universal Oneness."
There are additional threads that tell us that the true meaning of atonement is "at-one-ment" so our practice to achieve "one" does have a variety of meanings.
The belief that there is duality in our world which is why we have duality in life which is sometimes referred to as Yin-n-Yang or In-Yo. The ultimate goal is to achieve oneness with the Tao by balancing the two halves of our dualistic lives. This is where the ultimate Tao splits to duality as represented by Yin and Yang which is life.
In the superstring theory they insist that there are more than two dimensions or even three that make up the Universe but that there are at least ten dimensions which interact with one another somewhat like a bunch of strings that vibrate with energy. Within that ten dimensions they believe that six are so entangled that they all act as "one." If this is true then it goes to say that our intent to become "one" will also have positive effects on our lives.
Many thoughts lean toward our innate ability, if properly trained, to actually interact with the physical world thus effecting changes that reach down to the subatomic level. This oneness can also be intensified when we all gather as a group creating a shared intent resulting is a shared experience and further allow for greater effects on our world. Some refer to this as cosmic consciousness.
I believe that focused thought can affect anything. Human thought such as the visualization we use in the fighting arts can literally transform our physical world. The mind has such power that our visualization can achieve exactly the same goals as if you actually participated in the event. It is the next best thing to actual experience.
Much of this comes from our ancient texts studied by our Chinese and Okinawan leaders and innovators of the fighting arts of Okinawa. The key is the kenpo gokui with other texts that are used to guide us along the path.
It is believed that the mind has the ability to alter the state of matter. It has the power to push the physical world to move in a random direction with additional ability to actually move it in a specific direction.
It is also believed that the mind-spirit-body are connected to the Universes energy. Some believe that all things are connected or interconnected to form a unified mesh or what some call a "Universal Oneness."
There are additional threads that tell us that the true meaning of atonement is "at-one-ment" so our practice to achieve "one" does have a variety of meanings.
The belief that there is duality in our world which is why we have duality in life which is sometimes referred to as Yin-n-Yang or In-Yo. The ultimate goal is to achieve oneness with the Tao by balancing the two halves of our dualistic lives. This is where the ultimate Tao splits to duality as represented by Yin and Yang which is life.
In the superstring theory they insist that there are more than two dimensions or even three that make up the Universe but that there are at least ten dimensions which interact with one another somewhat like a bunch of strings that vibrate with energy. Within that ten dimensions they believe that six are so entangled that they all act as "one." If this is true then it goes to say that our intent to become "one" will also have positive effects on our lives.
Many thoughts lean toward our innate ability, if properly trained, to actually interact with the physical world thus effecting changes that reach down to the subatomic level. This oneness can also be intensified when we all gather as a group creating a shared intent resulting is a shared experience and further allow for greater effects on our world. Some refer to this as cosmic consciousness.
I believe that focused thought can affect anything. Human thought such as the visualization we use in the fighting arts can literally transform our physical world. The mind has such power that our visualization can achieve exactly the same goals as if you actually participated in the event. It is the next best thing to actual experience.
Much of this comes from our ancient texts studied by our Chinese and Okinawan leaders and innovators of the fighting arts of Okinawa. The key is the kenpo gokui with other texts that are used to guide us along the path.
"One"
ichi | itsu | hito- | hito(tsu) | kazu [hi, hajime, osamu, makoto, and kazu] Original meaning: one, unity, first; to make one, to unify, to become one.
Other Japanese Terms for One:
Ittai: one body; a style or a form.
Isshun: instant, moment.
Isshokenmei ni: for life, with all one's might [Note: To practice wholeheartedly].
Toitsu suru: unity, coordinate, standardize.
Ichiritsu: uniformity, equality.
Kin'itsu: uniformity, equality, evenness.
Ichido: all (of us), all persons concerned.
Itten: the whole sky.
Hitotsu: one; the same.
Bibliography:
Halpern, Jack & Mizutani, Osamu. "The Kodansha: Kanji Learner's Dictionary". Kodansha International, New York 2002. ISBN: 4770028555
Disclaimer: The following interpretations, idea's, etc. are mine and mine alone. This is not any type of official view as to the meanings I give in the following paragraphs. Any omissions and errors are mine and I would enjoy feedback as to others opinions, feelings, and interpretations for this is a teaching/learning forum.
Ittai: one body; a style or a form.
Ittai or "one body" is the culmination of training and practice in a singular form such as the fighting art of "Ti" where training the mind-body-spirit to achieve "one" with the Way is the path we chose to follow in becoming enlightened. In this particular case, i.e. the practice of "Ti", we use a specific and unique form or style of practice to gain experience and knowledge.
Isshun: instant, moment.
To achieve the ability to remain in the present moment, the instant of life we experience in real time. This is not dwelling on the past or contemplating the future but to live in this instant as each present moment comes to life and immediately exits to the past. This instant, this present time, and this one moment is the only moment as all others are mists in the wind.
Isshokenmei ni: for life, with all one's might [Note: To practice wholeheartedly].
In the practice of ti-jutsu one must consider that in a moment a life can be affected by the circumstances we encounter in our day-to-day lives. It is that "one" moment where we will act and that action will change the course or path we travel irrevocably. This is all the more reason to practice and train with all one's might or with intent to be consistent and diligent; to practice wholeheartedly.
Toitsu suru: unity, coordinate, standardize.
When I think of "standardize" or to standardize something it brings to mind the system of Ti. In other words the kihon, kata, and kumite of the Okinawan Fighting Arts, i.e. Ti. History has shown that the most effective means of combative training with out actually being in combat is to drill. The standards set by our forefathers through out various cultures over a long and illustrious history indicate that to use standardized methods is best in reaching "one" with all the aspects of training and practice required to achieve victory in combat as well as life.
Ichiritsu: uniformity, equality.
Equality is understanding others so we can come to realize that we are all the same and that understanding provides for unity which can result in a peaceful coexistence in the Universe. This is very important as the gokui and means of training intended by Tatsuo Sensei.
Through the uniformity of mutual understanding we achieve enlightenment where the need to resolve anything with conflict is no longer necessary.
Kin'itsu: uniformity, equality, evenness.
Equality of mankind or humanity does not mean we lose site of our uniqueness. It simply means we understand our uniqueness and through understanding we come to understand what it takes for us as individual to co-inhabit the Earth with out conflict. If I understand another's way of life then I can adjust myself accordingly when my aura comes in contact with another's.
Evenness is the balance we attain through our understanding of humanity so we are more connected with the threads of the Universe or the Tao which connects us to the one or the "void" that is the Tao. No resistance so the energies flow with one another equally and in balance.
Ichido: all (of us), all persons concerned.
The Kenpo Gokui as meant to be understand from Tatsuo Sensei means that to understand all others to unify humanity in the Tao means to be concerned for all persons in humanity. I would venture to go a bit further to say we must understand all entities concerned be it a tree, a rock, animals, or mankind/humanity.
Itten: the whole sky.
I believe this is representative to being one with the Universe. As the gokui says to have heart as heaven and earth with ki flowing as does the flow of the moon and sun while achieving balance in all things and with all of life under the heavens. The whole of the void, the Tao, the Way, as in life.
Hitotsu: one; the same.
To be "one"; to be the same in all things; to achieve serenity and enlightenment; to be "one" with the Tao; to be "one" with the universe; to be "one" with all life forces; to be "one" with mind-spirit-body; to achieve "one" with the rhythm of the Universe. What a wonderful achievement in our lifetime regardless of which one we are in at this "present moment!"
To be unique yet the same.
What I have posted here is just the tip of the iceberg. I only hope that this tickles you desire to go further and find your own answers to all the questions life brings. I can only say that I am hopeful that the answers I have discovered to date resolve the "One question of what it is all about."
Other Japanese Terms for One:
Ittai: one body; a style or a form.
Isshun: instant, moment.
Isshokenmei ni: for life, with all one's might [Note: To practice wholeheartedly].
Toitsu suru: unity, coordinate, standardize.
Ichiritsu: uniformity, equality.
Kin'itsu: uniformity, equality, evenness.
Ichido: all (of us), all persons concerned.
Itten: the whole sky.
Hitotsu: one; the same.
Bibliography:
Halpern, Jack & Mizutani, Osamu. "The Kodansha: Kanji Learner's Dictionary". Kodansha International, New York 2002. ISBN: 4770028555
Disclaimer: The following interpretations, idea's, etc. are mine and mine alone. This is not any type of official view as to the meanings I give in the following paragraphs. Any omissions and errors are mine and I would enjoy feedback as to others opinions, feelings, and interpretations for this is a teaching/learning forum.
Ittai: one body; a style or a form.
Ittai or "one body" is the culmination of training and practice in a singular form such as the fighting art of "Ti" where training the mind-body-spirit to achieve "one" with the Way is the path we chose to follow in becoming enlightened. In this particular case, i.e. the practice of "Ti", we use a specific and unique form or style of practice to gain experience and knowledge.
Isshun: instant, moment.
To achieve the ability to remain in the present moment, the instant of life we experience in real time. This is not dwelling on the past or contemplating the future but to live in this instant as each present moment comes to life and immediately exits to the past. This instant, this present time, and this one moment is the only moment as all others are mists in the wind.
Isshokenmei ni: for life, with all one's might [Note: To practice wholeheartedly].
In the practice of ti-jutsu one must consider that in a moment a life can be affected by the circumstances we encounter in our day-to-day lives. It is that "one" moment where we will act and that action will change the course or path we travel irrevocably. This is all the more reason to practice and train with all one's might or with intent to be consistent and diligent; to practice wholeheartedly.
Toitsu suru: unity, coordinate, standardize.
When I think of "standardize" or to standardize something it brings to mind the system of Ti. In other words the kihon, kata, and kumite of the Okinawan Fighting Arts, i.e. Ti. History has shown that the most effective means of combative training with out actually being in combat is to drill. The standards set by our forefathers through out various cultures over a long and illustrious history indicate that to use standardized methods is best in reaching "one" with all the aspects of training and practice required to achieve victory in combat as well as life.
Ichiritsu: uniformity, equality.
Equality is understanding others so we can come to realize that we are all the same and that understanding provides for unity which can result in a peaceful coexistence in the Universe. This is very important as the gokui and means of training intended by Tatsuo Sensei.
Through the uniformity of mutual understanding we achieve enlightenment where the need to resolve anything with conflict is no longer necessary.
Kin'itsu: uniformity, equality, evenness.
Equality of mankind or humanity does not mean we lose site of our uniqueness. It simply means we understand our uniqueness and through understanding we come to understand what it takes for us as individual to co-inhabit the Earth with out conflict. If I understand another's way of life then I can adjust myself accordingly when my aura comes in contact with another's.
Evenness is the balance we attain through our understanding of humanity so we are more connected with the threads of the Universe or the Tao which connects us to the one or the "void" that is the Tao. No resistance so the energies flow with one another equally and in balance.
Ichido: all (of us), all persons concerned.
The Kenpo Gokui as meant to be understand from Tatsuo Sensei means that to understand all others to unify humanity in the Tao means to be concerned for all persons in humanity. I would venture to go a bit further to say we must understand all entities concerned be it a tree, a rock, animals, or mankind/humanity.
Itten: the whole sky.
I believe this is representative to being one with the Universe. As the gokui says to have heart as heaven and earth with ki flowing as does the flow of the moon and sun while achieving balance in all things and with all of life under the heavens. The whole of the void, the Tao, the Way, as in life.
Hitotsu: one; the same.
To be "one"; to be the same in all things; to achieve serenity and enlightenment; to be "one" with the Tao; to be "one" with the universe; to be "one" with all life forces; to be "one" with mind-spirit-body; to achieve "one" with the rhythm of the Universe. What a wonderful achievement in our lifetime regardless of which one we are in at this "present moment!"
To be unique yet the same.
What I have posted here is just the tip of the iceberg. I only hope that this tickles you desire to go further and find your own answers to all the questions life brings. I can only say that I am hopeful that the answers I have discovered to date resolve the "One question of what it is all about."
Personal Moment
I always understood the importance of the Tao, the I-Ching, and Gokui, etc. and that the spirit is most important to life. So today I speak of a "moment" where all came together as "one" and I made a discovery that impacts my life.
A self-realization that brought about understanding and as a result a certain amount of calmness and serenity. It was a moment that I will cherish and will endeavor to attain again as my life moves from the string of present moments.
The details are not important for this post and I realize I may be asking for a good deal of "faith" as to my word yet I want to stress that my practice of the mind-spirit-body does bear fruit. If you want something solid then keep practicing and studying.
Remain focused on the trip!
A self-realization that brought about understanding and as a result a certain amount of calmness and serenity. It was a moment that I will cherish and will endeavor to attain again as my life moves from the string of present moments.
The details are not important for this post and I realize I may be asking for a good deal of "faith" as to my word yet I want to stress that my practice of the mind-spirit-body does bear fruit. If you want something solid then keep practicing and studying.
Remain focused on the trip!
Training the Mind
This article means a great deal simply because it denotes that the Military Machine is finally recognizing that training of the mind is more important than training the body. In fact they will find that when done properly that the body will follow the mind and become "more."
Enjoy the article and be thankful they now recognize the plight of our Warriors!
The Kenpo Gokui by its inference to learn about other things outside of the physical rigors of the fighting arts is actually pointing to this very thing. It can also benefit greatly personal lives as they indicated in the article.
This is so important for anyone and especially those in the fighting/martial arts. To temper the skills with the proper spirit is what gives us the "whole" or "one" of this singular way to a better life.
Experience it!
Enjoy the article and be thankful they now recognize the plight of our Warriors!
The Kenpo Gokui by its inference to learn about other things outside of the physical rigors of the fighting arts is actually pointing to this very thing. It can also benefit greatly personal lives as they indicated in the article.
This is so important for anyone and especially those in the fighting/martial arts. To temper the skills with the proper spirit is what gives us the "whole" or "one" of this singular way to a better life.
Experience it!
Answers from Within
The Tao, the I-Ching, and many other classic writings speak of finding the answers. Where do they say we should conduct the search for answers. This, to me, is a real mind bender of a question. A question I hope to one day answer.
If I am understanding the Tao-te-ching, I-Ching, Kenpo Gokui, the Power of Now, and other classics, the truth is within us but if we keep looking outside of ourselves we will be searching for answers that will never satisfy our needs.
What I am trying to say is that we can keep looking outward for our answers only to be disappointed or we can look inward for the answers and find understanding and enlightenment. I don't mean we ignore those around us, the classics such as the Tao-te-ching and or our own inner voices. Take it in and then focus inward and let the answer come from the void that is the Tao that is in each of us.
If I continue to look to others for my answers I will never find the truth. All I will do is provide my ego, inner voice, the perfect excuse for not finding the truth and living it. Instead I will find the ability to lay blame on others when in reality the blame is all mine.
Using the fighting arts as an example. When one does a technique wrong they usually find out instantly, i.e. get hit, etc. They can look at it and say that the other person cheated, did a technique that is not allowed, or that you were not ready yet or we can say to ourselves that we need to work on that weakness a bit more diligently.
We can practice kata and say to ourselves that because of the long day our kata is imperfect or we can simply say that this kata at this moment is what it is and what lessons can I learn from this moment. Ah, I can work a bit harder on this part by doing it several more times a day or I can blame outside forces and say because those bleeping persons at work bothered me I am doing terrible. Instead, say, today was a good lesson in life and I need to stop focusing on the past, get into the moment, and focus on practice. What is there to learn in this moments lesson?
Stop looking outside for answers! Stop relying on others for the answers! Stop looking for excuses in others! Be your own best teacher, confidant and be independent.
Remember that we are affected only if we take it personally. If we say to ourselves that it is not personal and that what is happening is as if it was happening to someone else, decide on an appropriate way to handle it, and then move on to the next moment then maybe we would see the truth of it.
Look within, seek the answers there, no one else can answer it for you. Remain open and do not take anything personal. Let it be just another teaching lesson, learning opportunity, to see yourself up close and personal. Use it to teach yourself life lessons.
If I am understanding the Tao-te-ching, I-Ching, Kenpo Gokui, the Power of Now, and other classics, the truth is within us but if we keep looking outside of ourselves we will be searching for answers that will never satisfy our needs.
What I am trying to say is that we can keep looking outward for our answers only to be disappointed or we can look inward for the answers and find understanding and enlightenment. I don't mean we ignore those around us, the classics such as the Tao-te-ching and or our own inner voices. Take it in and then focus inward and let the answer come from the void that is the Tao that is in each of us.
If I continue to look to others for my answers I will never find the truth. All I will do is provide my ego, inner voice, the perfect excuse for not finding the truth and living it. Instead I will find the ability to lay blame on others when in reality the blame is all mine.
Using the fighting arts as an example. When one does a technique wrong they usually find out instantly, i.e. get hit, etc. They can look at it and say that the other person cheated, did a technique that is not allowed, or that you were not ready yet or we can say to ourselves that we need to work on that weakness a bit more diligently.
We can practice kata and say to ourselves that because of the long day our kata is imperfect or we can simply say that this kata at this moment is what it is and what lessons can I learn from this moment. Ah, I can work a bit harder on this part by doing it several more times a day or I can blame outside forces and say because those bleeping persons at work bothered me I am doing terrible. Instead, say, today was a good lesson in life and I need to stop focusing on the past, get into the moment, and focus on practice. What is there to learn in this moments lesson?
Stop looking outside for answers! Stop relying on others for the answers! Stop looking for excuses in others! Be your own best teacher, confidant and be independent.
Remember that we are affected only if we take it personally. If we say to ourselves that it is not personal and that what is happening is as if it was happening to someone else, decide on an appropriate way to handle it, and then move on to the next moment then maybe we would see the truth of it.
Look within, seek the answers there, no one else can answer it for you. Remain open and do not take anything personal. Let it be just another teaching lesson, learning opportunity, to see yourself up close and personal. Use it to teach yourself life lessons.
Taking it Personally
Tatsuo Sensei believed in the Way of Gokui. He practiced many actions that opened to the possibilities. He even talked of what leads to brutality and conflict. This is the true path when practicing the fighting arts. To practice it with esoteric values to achieve the true way of the Warrior.
We are lead to conflict by one very simple action, we take it personally! Every conflict humanity engages in is a direct result of a person taking action because they have felt that some slight was taken against them "personally."
We may have to accept an action but we do not have to accept it personally. We don't have to accept it on a personal level ever. We have to understand that because we are exposed to some action that it is not required we receive it on a personal level. It is there and there is nothing we can do about it but accept it because it is in that moment. We don't have to make it personal; we don't have to take it personally, we can consider it a problem of the other person who took the action. We can "choose" to NOT TAKE IT Personally!
Actions that can have an effect on us simply do because we happen to be in the vicinity when they occur. What we can do is tell ourselves that "It is not about me!" We can do this each and every time until be believe it and smother the ego's tendency to tell us "its personal."
This is the type of mental training we must master to become the consummate warrior of the fighting arts and a warrior of life. Just imagine if all peoples of the world decided to never take anything as "personal" that all the conflicts of the world would cease.
When that day comes then I will shift my singular practice of the fighting arts to the art of calligraphy so that I may follow the Way by another singular means.
We are lead to conflict by one very simple action, we take it personally! Every conflict humanity engages in is a direct result of a person taking action because they have felt that some slight was taken against them "personally."
We may have to accept an action but we do not have to accept it personally. We don't have to accept it on a personal level ever. We have to understand that because we are exposed to some action that it is not required we receive it on a personal level. It is there and there is nothing we can do about it but accept it because it is in that moment. We don't have to make it personal; we don't have to take it personally, we can consider it a problem of the other person who took the action. We can "choose" to NOT TAKE IT Personally!
Actions that can have an effect on us simply do because we happen to be in the vicinity when they occur. What we can do is tell ourselves that "It is not about me!" We can do this each and every time until be believe it and smother the ego's tendency to tell us "its personal."
This is the type of mental training we must master to become the consummate warrior of the fighting arts and a warrior of life. Just imagine if all peoples of the world decided to never take anything as "personal" that all the conflicts of the world would cease.
When that day comes then I will shift my singular practice of the fighting arts to the art of calligraphy so that I may follow the Way by another singular means.
Action Originates Where?
Your actions in life are your own. You can only look within to see the why of any action of which you are involved. Only you can decide the action you take. To project blame on outside forces to justify an action is of a foolish nature.
If you allow some action to influence your action then that other action is controlling you. Control yourself by taking responsibility for all your actions. To know that your actions are a direct result of the mind then you have stepped closer to the way.
Remain in the present moment. Know that everything in life occurs because of the thoughts you ponder and the actions are the bodies response to your thoughts. Be honest with yourself and your own thoughts to create actions that denote honor and respect for yourself and by association all who you encounter.
This is the Way; this is the Way of the Kenpo Gokui; this is the Way of the Universe; this is the way of the moment. Be the moment! Be present! Use the singular practice to influence your life; to reach beyond the stars!
If you allow some action to influence your action then that other action is controlling you. Control yourself by taking responsibility for all your actions. To know that your actions are a direct result of the mind then you have stepped closer to the way.
Remain in the present moment. Know that everything in life occurs because of the thoughts you ponder and the actions are the bodies response to your thoughts. Be honest with yourself and your own thoughts to create actions that denote honor and respect for yourself and by association all who you encounter.
This is the Way; this is the Way of the Kenpo Gokui; this is the Way of the Universe; this is the way of the moment. Be the moment! Be present! Use the singular practice to influence your life; to reach beyond the stars!
The Moment, the Present, the "One"!
My wife reads the New York Times and always finds something of value and interest in its pages. This morning she shared with me the article, "The Mediocre Multitasker."
You may read this and say to yourself what in the heck does this have to do with the practice of the fighting arts or the gokui.
I have spoken of the practice of the singular to reach the multitude in the Way. When I practice diligently and with mindfulness I tend to narrow my mind down to the "one."
It turns out that a mind-set of remaining in the moment which is sometimes referred to as the "mind-no-mind" or "Zanshin or Mushin" which is known to be the epitome of a fighting warrior means exactly what this article means, i.e. keep the mind focused on the moment and that allowing the mind to "multitask" means to spread it to thin to be fully functional and totally aware. One thing at a time, one moment at a time, inhabit the present.
To practice the "Way" is to uni-task. Bring the mind into that one moment where your mind, spirit, and body are only in the moment of the technique performed at that present moment. It is there, done, and gone with the next moment.
To "think" of anything else; to let the mind wander to the past of what you just did or the future as to what you may want to do is to multitask and that ain't good.
We has humans may "think" we are actually multitasking when in reality we are actually doing a lot of things one at a time rapidly and as the article stresses it takes the mind away from what it does best and creates a mind-is-mind vs. mind-no-mind.
Apparently the wise ones from Ancient China, Lao Tsu, were aware of more than we of the day are aware.
The practice of the fighting arts teaches the mind to optimize and become the best it can by teaching us to uni-task. Remain in the moment, remain in the present, and let the mind be the Tao or the void. There is a time to think, singularly, and a time to not think. Know the difference and let it be.
You may read this and say to yourself what in the heck does this have to do with the practice of the fighting arts or the gokui.
I have spoken of the practice of the singular to reach the multitude in the Way. When I practice diligently and with mindfulness I tend to narrow my mind down to the "one."
It turns out that a mind-set of remaining in the moment which is sometimes referred to as the "mind-no-mind" or "Zanshin or Mushin" which is known to be the epitome of a fighting warrior means exactly what this article means, i.e. keep the mind focused on the moment and that allowing the mind to "multitask" means to spread it to thin to be fully functional and totally aware. One thing at a time, one moment at a time, inhabit the present.
To practice the "Way" is to uni-task. Bring the mind into that one moment where your mind, spirit, and body are only in the moment of the technique performed at that present moment. It is there, done, and gone with the next moment.
To "think" of anything else; to let the mind wander to the past of what you just did or the future as to what you may want to do is to multitask and that ain't good.
We has humans may "think" we are actually multitasking when in reality we are actually doing a lot of things one at a time rapidly and as the article stresses it takes the mind away from what it does best and creates a mind-is-mind vs. mind-no-mind.
Apparently the wise ones from Ancient China, Lao Tsu, were aware of more than we of the day are aware.
The practice of the fighting arts teaches the mind to optimize and become the best it can by teaching us to uni-task. Remain in the moment, remain in the present, and let the mind be the Tao or the void. There is a time to think, singularly, and a time to not think. Know the difference and let it be.
What is Karate, really...
This is to be one of the most difficult postings ever since for every person who has been exposed to the "Martial Arts" will have their own unique view of this questions answer.
Let me begin with a quote from an Okinawan Karate Person:
[Kaneshiro Kenji Sensei (Student of Shimabuku Tatsuo), in an interview conducted on 24 December 1984. He said:
"Karate is not for winning. If you want to win use a gun or atomic bomb (laughter by all). Okinawan karate is for self-defense. The Satsuma Clan came and took away weapons. ‘Karate expert’ Tatsuo Sensei says ‘is not to be wounded’, in other words, don't fight."
"A lot of Americans came and did not understand the true meaning of karate. When they sparred and won, they thought they were the toughest, the best."
"Karate is not for fighting. Karate is to prepare for fighting but don't fight unless needed."
"In Okinawa karate, they go for the killing points. In tournament, you can not hit the groin, but in Okinawa karate it would be one of the first targets."
"Shimabuku Sensei made use of bogu protective gear. Large Americans would win against smaller opponents. Americans thought they were strong. They would push for rank. Higher then the Okinawan. To the Okinawan, Americans did not even know how to pronounce karate much less understand it."
"When Americans went back to the states, they would proclaim there prowess in karate and explain it wrong. Diploma has nothing to do with karate. Renshi, Kyoshi. I received my Kyoshi certificate two years ago (1982, over thirty-two years after starting with Tatsuo). We're not after certificates, we do it for health and heart."
Bibliography:
Advincula, A. J.. Isshinkai Yahoo Group. IsshinkaiKarate@yahoogroups.com. California Internet 2009]
I will also quote another email post on the Isshinkai Yahoo group when a person wearing a tap out T-shirt heard the statement that karate is not for winning this same person never returned to the class.
We can attribute the misconceptions of the world of kara-te because of a pension for dominating and achieving the "trophy". In addition and due to a lack of patience in Americans, which has become worse today, they have watered down the real kara-te into what they wanted and that is instant gratification when they see a belt, trophy, or a point is awarded vs. the inner self-gratification one gets from achieving something less grandiose such as a good life and morality unparalleled.
I remember one of my first lessons in karate self-defense techniques that Warner Dean Henry, Sensei and Sergeant Major of Marines (retired) gave. He said, "Take a seisan stance. Raise your right arm where the forearm is
vertical with the fist pointing to the sky. Put the other fist on the waist as if in the cocked position, i.e. posted for a punch. Now, quickly pivot 180 degrees and start running like hell!" His other most famous self-defense technique was explanation of the art of "ka-chink". Any Marine knows the distinctive sound of a forty-five auto when a round is jacked into the chamber...
What I can gleam from the facts I have collected over the years is that almost all the Marines were focused intensely on the kumite and tournament aspects they tended to ignore the more important aspects of kara-te. I believe this is why so many believe today that basics and kata are worthless endeavors...so sad.
If you watch today's kumite it seems more like boxing or kick-boxing which is not kara-te.
The last paragraph of Kaneshiro Sensei is not a new one and it goes to show the character of the individual. In addition it shows the American ego and its need for inflation. It also shows how we seem to lack self-esteem.
Another point to take notice of is the opposites here. Asian cultures tends to look within while American culture looks to the outer. We tend to rely on our outer muscular strength while Asian's focus on the strength of the inner person through the hara. In reality both combined make for a powerful person who tends to hid their true self as a personal private thing while most of us tend to exude a type of person that is domineering and dangerous.
Now let us look at the meaning of karate from Okinawa point of view. It is a more spiritual endeavor that is supposed to promote the person from within for a character, i.e. bushi as defined, "A person greatly respected as a gentleman and professional karate man."
I do believe that we all should look to the development of the mind and spirit. I do believe we should strive to develop "bushi" and that how we act, talk, and be as humans is the most important aspect of the fighting arts.
We still need such things as humanity is still in the dark ages with its pension for domination, violence, and destruction of the self as well as others. If I felt that we could walk this Earth today with out fear of any situations where our lives and well being were in possible jeopardy then I would switch to the tea ceremony or calligraphy as my "Do or Art" form.
Did "Te" in its original form really mean to practice fighting with out fighting or did that part come from the caliber of Masters from Old Okinawa who just happened to have the intestinal fortitude to "see" the truth and by the deeds and actions conveyed "bushi" as an important part of practice/training?
Even today when you hear the stories of the old masters it is usually about their prowess as fighters with a few talked of as true "bushi", i.e. Bushi Matsumara, etc.
Maybe it was just understood that one must develop both sides of the coin, i.e. the physical part and the spiritual part for "one" wholehearted way of practice and training in "Te."
Does the Okinawan really do it for health and heart? If we decide that health is the physical side of that coin and that heart is to mean the spiritual side of that same coin then "yes" we can say they do practice for health and heart.
Here is the crux of the matter. We can all say we do this or that yet if we are only providing lip service and not actually putting it into practice both in the training hall and life then we are empty.
I define kara-te as "kara-te-jutsu-do" which encompasses both the spiritual and physical. I look to kara-te as a tool to achieve enlightenment through its singular practice. I do practice the health and heart aspect of karate. I believe it is a means of attaining all round health and perfection of the mind, spirit, and body for that "one" wholehearted way of living life as a "bushi." I believe that we have to accept all aspects of it with out picking and choosing parts as we see fit to actually practice the fighting arts of kara-te-jutsu-do.
We can not just pick those things we find easy to do or learn and ignore all other aspects simply because we don't think they have validity. These forms of achieving bushi have evolved on Okinawa over several hundred years of continuous, dedicated, and constant practice and training. All aspects have purpose and I personally have discovered this truth through my practice and training.
I started as most Marines with the physical form in fighting and yet because I was persistent and dedicated I discovered through practice the truth and it is complex in its simplicity.
I discovered the strings that connect everything in the Universe and try to adhere to those standards and practices in kara-te and life. This is the truth of the fighting arts of Okinawa.
Embrace and practice the "whole" of kara-te-justu-do of Okinawa and practice it "wholeheartedly!"
Let me begin with a quote from an Okinawan Karate Person:
[Kaneshiro Kenji Sensei (Student of Shimabuku Tatsuo), in an interview conducted on 24 December 1984. He said:
"Karate is not for winning. If you want to win use a gun or atomic bomb (laughter by all). Okinawan karate is for self-defense. The Satsuma Clan came and took away weapons. ‘Karate expert’ Tatsuo Sensei says ‘is not to be wounded’, in other words, don't fight."
"A lot of Americans came and did not understand the true meaning of karate. When they sparred and won, they thought they were the toughest, the best."
"Karate is not for fighting. Karate is to prepare for fighting but don't fight unless needed."
"In Okinawa karate, they go for the killing points. In tournament, you can not hit the groin, but in Okinawa karate it would be one of the first targets."
"Shimabuku Sensei made use of bogu protective gear. Large Americans would win against smaller opponents. Americans thought they were strong. They would push for rank. Higher then the Okinawan. To the Okinawan, Americans did not even know how to pronounce karate much less understand it."
"When Americans went back to the states, they would proclaim there prowess in karate and explain it wrong. Diploma has nothing to do with karate. Renshi, Kyoshi. I received my Kyoshi certificate two years ago (1982, over thirty-two years after starting with Tatsuo). We're not after certificates, we do it for health and heart."
Bibliography:
Advincula, A. J.. Isshinkai Yahoo Group. IsshinkaiKarate@yahoogroups.com. California Internet 2009]
I will also quote another email post on the Isshinkai Yahoo group when a person wearing a tap out T-shirt heard the statement that karate is not for winning this same person never returned to the class.
We can attribute the misconceptions of the world of kara-te because of a pension for dominating and achieving the "trophy". In addition and due to a lack of patience in Americans, which has become worse today, they have watered down the real kara-te into what they wanted and that is instant gratification when they see a belt, trophy, or a point is awarded vs. the inner self-gratification one gets from achieving something less grandiose such as a good life and morality unparalleled.
I remember one of my first lessons in karate self-defense techniques that Warner Dean Henry, Sensei and Sergeant Major of Marines (retired) gave. He said, "Take a seisan stance. Raise your right arm where the forearm is
vertical with the fist pointing to the sky. Put the other fist on the waist as if in the cocked position, i.e. posted for a punch. Now, quickly pivot 180 degrees and start running like hell!" His other most famous self-defense technique was explanation of the art of "ka-chink". Any Marine knows the distinctive sound of a forty-five auto when a round is jacked into the chamber...
What I can gleam from the facts I have collected over the years is that almost all the Marines were focused intensely on the kumite and tournament aspects they tended to ignore the more important aspects of kara-te. I believe this is why so many believe today that basics and kata are worthless endeavors...so sad.
If you watch today's kumite it seems more like boxing or kick-boxing which is not kara-te.
The last paragraph of Kaneshiro Sensei is not a new one and it goes to show the character of the individual. In addition it shows the American ego and its need for inflation. It also shows how we seem to lack self-esteem.
Another point to take notice of is the opposites here. Asian cultures tends to look within while American culture looks to the outer. We tend to rely on our outer muscular strength while Asian's focus on the strength of the inner person through the hara. In reality both combined make for a powerful person who tends to hid their true self as a personal private thing while most of us tend to exude a type of person that is domineering and dangerous.
Now let us look at the meaning of karate from Okinawa point of view. It is a more spiritual endeavor that is supposed to promote the person from within for a character, i.e. bushi as defined, "A person greatly respected as a gentleman and professional karate man."
I do believe that we all should look to the development of the mind and spirit. I do believe we should strive to develop "bushi" and that how we act, talk, and be as humans is the most important aspect of the fighting arts.
We still need such things as humanity is still in the dark ages with its pension for domination, violence, and destruction of the self as well as others. If I felt that we could walk this Earth today with out fear of any situations where our lives and well being were in possible jeopardy then I would switch to the tea ceremony or calligraphy as my "Do or Art" form.
Did "Te" in its original form really mean to practice fighting with out fighting or did that part come from the caliber of Masters from Old Okinawa who just happened to have the intestinal fortitude to "see" the truth and by the deeds and actions conveyed "bushi" as an important part of practice/training?
Even today when you hear the stories of the old masters it is usually about their prowess as fighters with a few talked of as true "bushi", i.e. Bushi Matsumara, etc.
Maybe it was just understood that one must develop both sides of the coin, i.e. the physical part and the spiritual part for "one" wholehearted way of practice and training in "Te."
Does the Okinawan really do it for health and heart? If we decide that health is the physical side of that coin and that heart is to mean the spiritual side of that same coin then "yes" we can say they do practice for health and heart.
Here is the crux of the matter. We can all say we do this or that yet if we are only providing lip service and not actually putting it into practice both in the training hall and life then we are empty.
I define kara-te as "kara-te-jutsu-do" which encompasses both the spiritual and physical. I look to kara-te as a tool to achieve enlightenment through its singular practice. I do practice the health and heart aspect of karate. I believe it is a means of attaining all round health and perfection of the mind, spirit, and body for that "one" wholehearted way of living life as a "bushi." I believe that we have to accept all aspects of it with out picking and choosing parts as we see fit to actually practice the fighting arts of kara-te-jutsu-do.
We can not just pick those things we find easy to do or learn and ignore all other aspects simply because we don't think they have validity. These forms of achieving bushi have evolved on Okinawa over several hundred years of continuous, dedicated, and constant practice and training. All aspects have purpose and I personally have discovered this truth through my practice and training.
I started as most Marines with the physical form in fighting and yet because I was persistent and dedicated I discovered through practice the truth and it is complex in its simplicity.
I discovered the strings that connect everything in the Universe and try to adhere to those standards and practices in kara-te and life. This is the truth of the fighting arts of Okinawa.
Embrace and practice the "whole" of kara-te-justu-do of Okinawa and practice it "wholeheartedly!"