Courtesy is a core principle and value of the martial arts
and sets it apart from other sports, activities, or hobbies. Students are
taught from their first class, and through the rest of their training, that
Martial Arts begins and ends with courtesy and respect.
Being Courteous and Respectful to others makes a positive
impression on them and is the only way to maintain a great relationship with
anyone. In our classes, we demonstrate our courtesy and appreciation every time
we bow to one another. We also show courtesy and respect when we give a
positive response to our instructors.
In martial arts, we show the utmost respect to those who are
teaching us the craft. We also teach all students to show courtesy to the lower
ranking students. We do this because without lower-ranking students, the higher
ranked ones would have no one to teach. A Blackbelt must always be mindful of
the fact that she or he started out with no belt.
While it might seem obvious that respect should be mutual,
we don’t often see examples of respect and courtesy in other sports. As a
Martial Artist, it’s important to extend your courtesy and respect to everyone
in the Dojo—from the highest ranked teacher to the no-belt beginner. By doing
so, you give the lower ranked students someone to look up to, and your teachers
can see your progress as a Martial Artist.
Courtesy and respect do not end when you walk out of the
Tristar’s doors. In fact, it never ends. Outside of the Dojo we show our
courtesy to others by saying “Please,” “Thank you,” and “Excuse me.” Students
also show respect by looking someone in the eyes during a conversation. Our
students show respect to their teachers, parents, and elders just as they do
their instructors in class. They also show respect to friends, classmates,
coworkers, and siblings the way they do fellow Martial Artists.
Courtesy, as the saying goes, is contagious. In a world too
often short on courtesy, it’s important that we strive to set the example.
Imagine the influence we can make in our community if we all practice being
extra courteous!
Let’s strive to make it a habit each and everyday. This
week, try to do one new thing each day that you normally wouldn’t to show
courtesy within the community. Maybe next week you’ll try two new things. The
more courtesy you show throughout life, the more courtesy you will receive.
