currently reading Path Notes of an American Ninja Master by Glenn Morris
Some standout selections:
"Since people do not generally regard wisdom, truth, or creativity as central to an intimate relationship or the mastery of self, they seek out relationships based primarily on biochemical reaction, companionship, or mutual self-interest. The same can be said for the selection of a martial art teacher. A true martial artist is concerned with saving your life [my emphasis]. A master would also like for you to have one that is worth living, full of passion and excitement as you develop your deepest resources and finest qualities. ...This is not an abstract concept but a growing recognition that a teacher is real when actions are based not just on knowledge but the explicit presentation of one's own being through the personal experience of knowing. Knowing is doing. You must observe carefully."
"All of my students have confirmed for me how much more fun it is to teach smart people regardless of their physical skills. ...You would give your left nut to teach a real genius, it's so much fun. ...the study of unarmed combat is considered in the province of gentlemen. In a democratic, business oriented society, it is too often limited to disciplining children, entertaining adults, or being studied by thugs. It is a lengthy, painful growth process to learn the real thing as the levels of risk and your avoidance skills expand. Neither raw intellect nor great physical skill compare well to the lessons of endurance."
"The Lord loveth an upright man" is a true statement...
Some standout selections:
"Since people do not generally regard wisdom, truth, or creativity as central to an intimate relationship or the mastery of self, they seek out relationships based primarily on biochemical reaction, companionship, or mutual self-interest. The same can be said for the selection of a martial art teacher. A true martial artist is concerned with saving your life [my emphasis]. A master would also like for you to have one that is worth living, full of passion and excitement as you develop your deepest resources and finest qualities. ...This is not an abstract concept but a growing recognition that a teacher is real when actions are based not just on knowledge but the explicit presentation of one's own being through the personal experience of knowing. Knowing is doing. You must observe carefully."
"All of my students have confirmed for me how much more fun it is to teach smart people regardless of their physical skills. ...You would give your left nut to teach a real genius, it's so much fun. ...the study of unarmed combat is considered in the province of gentlemen. In a democratic, business oriented society, it is too often limited to disciplining children, entertaining adults, or being studied by thugs. It is a lengthy, painful growth process to learn the real thing as the levels of risk and your avoidance skills expand. Neither raw intellect nor great physical skill compare well to the lessons of endurance."
"The Lord loveth an upright man" is a true statement...
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