“Karate aims to build character, improve human behavior, and cultivate modesty; it does not, however, guarantee it.”

– Yasuhiro Konishi

When I see the virulent posture and speech that some Karate practitioners have on various subjects, both on and off the internet, I see how extremely important this phrase by Konishi Sensei is. All serious dojo have in their precepts, in one way or another, ideas of respect and humility, but if they are not the object of reflection and constant exercise, they are just words. This goes for both beginners and practitioners with high Dan and years of practice.

In the case of the instructor, the responsibility for observing his own posture is even greater, as he serves as an example for students and society. Otherwise, technique is taught, but philosophy is a great inconsistency. This is particularly problematic when the art taught has the potential to hurt others. Once again, the question of responsibility comes in.

It is not enough to train Karate. It is necessary to cultivate character, try to be respectful, tolerant, honestly morally and intellectually, and have humility to learn. This is a daily construction, which has to do with personal self-criticism. Karate has values ​​and traditions that help in this regard, but it is up to each one to incorporate it into their life. Did practitioners who constantly act mean and without empathy with others fully understand Karate?

We are obviously human and flawed, but as humans we have the capacity to learn and grow, just as the path of Karate shows us. It is for this reason, among others, that Karate is a lifelong practice and a complete karateka needs to incorporate the art into all aspects of life. Only then will a truly precious art be passed on to future generations.