This article was written with the hope to inspire and motivate those who do not have the opportunity to visit a traditional Dojo near them but are interested to undertake the study of Budo and realize on its many benefits of life enhancing journey.
Everybody knows that technological innovation is reshaping the world faster than ever before. The proof is in our devices which hold something close to the sum of humanity’s knowledge.
The biggest commodity in today’s world is “data” and “time”. With an exponential growth in technology and Information becoming hard to keep up with this means we are trying to keep up with information and lifestyle by managing our time. For everything we choose to do, there is an opportunity cost. In other words, doing one thing will require the sacrifice or neglecting of another.
So how do we find a balance between work and lifestyle where part of that lifestyle is our passion and commitment to learning Budo?
2019 is the year of the Metal Rat. Rats are clever, quick thinkers; successful, but content with living a quiet and peaceful life so it happens that the characteristics the Rat aligns with that of our current lifestyles and aspirations.
The key to keeping up with the rate of change is to prioritize, remain engaged, connected and network. It is our Masters wish that we foster and build on a community of friendship he created into the future. In order to do so members of this community need maintain basic human principles of respect, collaborate and sharing of information and knowledge. While maintaining all that we need to make sure we train the next generation of enthusiast.
For the longest time Budo was transmitted directly from master to disciple. This was the only way during turbulent times. Even now there are things that can not be transmitted publicly. However there is no longer a reason to hide everything. With the world population nearing 8 Billion there are many sincere individuals around the world eager to learn Japanese Budo and culture that do not have the means or access to a physical dojo near them.
The beauty of technology today is that it allows those individuals the opportunity to study directly and in real time with qualified teacher. It’s common knowledge that you can not learn everything online however you can get individuals to a level where they are self motivated to explore and dig deeper beyond the confined of their screens. History is full of tales of disciples discovering a master and taking tutelage only for the master to move on shortly after. So no 2 students of old were created equally. The same can be said to modern times. I have seen several honest and eager students that were able to grow and develop through online training much better then local students training at the Dojo. These individuals are contributing positively to their communities.
It may not be the most perfect and preferred approach but its a way for more individuals to get engaged. If you are interested in a such a program please reach us through our website or our various social media platforms.