When a new student walks into our dojo (Karate academy) they will often ask the question: “How long does it take to get a black belt?”
At this point I usually explain that the real question they should ask is: “What do I have to do to earn a black belt?” or “What does the journey towards a black belt look like?”.
You see, the reality is that the reasons and motivations why people start training Karate are not the same as the reasons, values and motivations which keep them training in the years to come. In the early years the change of belt colour and the prospect of bringing home a medal hold some excitement and provide the vigour to keep going. Beyond the black belt, mastery of the art and self-mastery become increasingly more important, and how we recover from the bumps and bruises of defeat provides an invaluable lesson for life.
As we develop as Karateka, we experience a forging of body mind and spirit and as a result the superficial initial motivations and values fall away to reveal a deeper sense of purpose. This is also reflected in the grading requirements for levels beyond the first black belt, as we are required to contribute to the advancement of the Karate art by becoming teachers to others.
The value is not in the colour of your belt. It is in the profound transformation you undergo through the process it took to get you there, in the person you have become as a result of your journey, in the life lessons learned, in the friendships and bonds you create and in the ways that you contribute to the growth of others. This, I believe, is the true meaning of the Karate way and this is what ultimately matters.
So, to a new student I say: “Welcome to the family. Enjoy the journey. Yours will be a unique one. I would be honoured and privileged to support you along the way.”