Newton's Third Law

I've been doing a lot of thinking, trying to relate two lessons- patience, trust and progressing wisely vs. out of the kwoon and into the world.

The first is always instantly related to our lessons in class. Have trust in your instructors and your ability, do not try to progress to quickly but always challenge yourself, have patience in your training. I'm learning how this lesson extends beyond all of that. Tough situations will always creep into your life, and how you deal with these situations will determine who you are and where you are going. Experience has taught me two things- snap decisions made during the heat of the moment will usually be detrimental, made with raw emotion rather than wisdom. Second, ignoring a situation doesn't make it go away, it creates festering resentment or bias. It seems to be a fine line between the two, trying to find the right balance of action and relinquishment is not easy.

Acting and not reacting takes patience, with yourself and with the situation. Look at your role in the issue, what would make it better and where are you at fault. Be honest. When you come to a decision you have to have trust in yourself that it is the right decision and to follow through but first, always first, think it through with a clear head. Placing your trust in the wrong decision is, well, bad. Move ahead using wisdom instead of emotion. The world will always throw curve balls at you. Use them as opportunities to grow and develop.

From the Silent River Kung Fu Code of Ethics-

Act with integrity and honor while maintaining respect for all living beings.

Accept responsibility for their actions and mistakes, learn from the past, and prepare for the future.