A Lesson In Tai Chi
When you attack someone, what happens? Do they usually just stand there or do they fight back in some way? Instinct generally prods us to defend ourselves.
You naturally see this in martial arts schools. Most students want to believe their school is best and some are eager to prove it. Most arguments of this type don’t escalate beyond words, but it always amazes me when a student from one school walks up to a student from another and begins talking about how great their school is - by inference how bad every other school is - then this same student gets upset when the other stands up for their school, inferring that no other school could possibly match them.
A rare few teachers encourage this type of “My teacher can beat up your teacher” behavior. However, many more do little to discourage it. Being too dogmatic and making sure that everyone knows you’re way is the right way often proves to be nothing more than showing your own insecurity. We only really care what others think of us when we are uncertain of ourselves.
When tai chi, and other martial arts, were needed to defend one’s way of life people understood the importance of secrecy. If someone could study your style, they might find a weakness to exploit. That meant you weren’t around to defend the village any longer.
Tai chi is a defensive art when studied through martial intent. Your opponent comes to you. The best way to defend yourself is to have your opponent underestimate you. If you are humble, an attacker may believe you are not capable. This makes your job easier; easier is better. Practice being humble, you’ll find it easier to get along with others and, if you’re lucky, you might be able to stop taking your blood pressure medicine too.
Your thougths?
John
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Feb 18, 2010 - 05:02:03Christ taught humility…. I enjoy tai chi toooo much to worry about if I’m good enough or if my instructor has been the best…. Question… If one has studied under several sifu…. Should each one believe and espouse his way MUST be followed under his teaching????… I have learned so much from each in so many ways…. Love this site.
Polly,
I guess it depends on the sifu. My Shifu, like most, wants students who have been accepted as formal disciples to focus on what he is teaching. He doesn’t mind though if we explore a bit. As a true lineage holder for Yang Taiji, Master Cui has a responsibility to the art and to pass on the essence of it to his disciples.
We study from the teachers we do, usually because we feel they are the best we have found. Sometimes though it’s hard to remember there are other excellent teachers out there too. On the other hand, jumping from one teacher to another can teach you many things; however, each new teacher may be reluctant to pass on too much before they think you are ready, or if they think you’re going to leave soon.
John
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