I've had a few things going around in my mind over the last few weeks, but I'm not sure how to phrase it all. One of the first things we are taught is "what does kung fu teach?". Normally when I ask this question I get the same answer I gave to the student- discipline and respect. But, when I ask what is discipline and respect, and why is it so important, I often get crickets as an answer. And so, I will do my best to define it and to explain to some degree why they are so important.
In this case, discipline does not necessarily refer to the negative connotation. Its not only a case of "do 30 push ups" after someone forgets to bow, or talks too loudly, or decides to show up late to class. It is also the ability to motivate yourself to do those push-ups, in an effort to better yourself body and soul. Its the ability to devote yourself to what you happen to be doing at the moment, to complete the task to the very best of your ability. Its the motivation behind everything we do in an attempt to become better workers, employers, practitioners, spouses, individuals. Without it, we will become stagnant, ignorant and loose all sense of accountability and responsibility.
Respect does not stop at bowing at the door or remembering previous or current masters of our art. It shows esteem for those around you as well as for yourself. Its what makes you choose to acknowledge the feats of others, or like discipline, it can be what motivates you to choose a healthy lifestyle, to listen to others before prematurely judging them. If given respect, it can do wonders for your self esteem, it can make you smile, it can make your day. To show another respect is to acknowledge them as individuals, with unique abilities and unique ideas. You know yourself, what you are capable of and how things affect you- why wouldn't you want to be respectful of others if you know that's what you yourself would want?
Discipline and respect can be seen on every level, from showing up to class on time, to finding a garbage can rather than throwing it out the car window, to becoming active politically, to helping those with no homes or warm clothing, to smiling at a cashier.
The things we teach in kung fu are meant to last beyond the kwoon. You cannot be taught kung fu in a week long seminar, or in a month or in a year. Even if you learn every move, every kick or block or escape or form, you will not know kung fu until you understand the importance of discipline and respect, and understand how they can touch every aspect of your life. It's a life long process, striving to become a better martial artist by becoming a better worker, employer, practitioner, spouse, individual. It does not stop once class is over, or you get injured, or you receive a black belt. It only becomes more important as you come to understand it.
