Making History

They say the modern world is in an advanced stage of decline. We don’t need to decline with it. 

We are not helplessly riding an arc of history. History is not a thing. History is what people do. 

We can think in accord with accepted norms or contrary to them. Or neither: we can make choices based on what is right. That includes what to do, where to go, which sights, sounds and ideas we engage with, who to have as friends. 

Even as warnings proliferate there is time to prepare. In the moment of crisis, it will be too late. 

We train. 

As a foundation for training we live with gratitude. We appreciate our art, lives, work, friends and families.

Anyone can criticize anyone. It takes no special discernment to find flaws in yourself or in other people. 

Anyone can complain. An attitude of dissatisfaction may masquerade as high standards but if it is a habit of negativity without remedy, it is vandalism. 

It may be an attempt to elevate oneself by leveling others. It may be an attempt to split friends apart to create factions. Whatever the motive: it is destructive – of the individuals involved and of the morale of the group. It is the corrosive inverse of gratitude.

We have a better way. When we detect a flaw, we remedy it. Where there is a deficiency, we add. Where there is excess, we reduce it.  When there is no remedy, we change course and move on. There is work to do. 

In the course of training we will all overcome obstacles and opposition. There will be detours, sidetracks, missed chances and dry holes. But we recognize them for what they are and continue to move with purpose toward our goal. 

Appreciate the foundation you have already built – the condition of your body, your mind, your heart, your will – and use all your spirit and energy, all your tools, all your gifts, include everyone who wants to join in, and build on it.

Be ready to be free. 

That is how history is made.

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Post by Jeffrey Brooks Copyright© 2022 Mountain Karate Dojo, Yamabayashi Ryu Honbu, in Saluda, NC

Photo by Enrico Perini via Pexels