Students often tell me that as they progress in Hapkido other parts of their lives also seems to move forward, to improve… like somehow things are linked…
The following is an epitaph from an anonymous Anglican bishop who was buried in the crypt of Westminster Abbey in A.D. 1100. I think it speaks for itself…
“When I was young and free and my imagination had no limits I dreamed of changing the world.
As I grew older and wiser, I discovered the world would not change.
So I shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my country.
But it too seemed immovable.
As I grew into my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt I settled for changing only family, those closest to me.
But alas, they would have none of it.
And now as I lay on my deathbed, I suddenly realise:
If I had only changed myself first
Then, by example I would have changed my family.
From their inspiration and encouragement,
I would then have been able to better my country
And who knows, I may even have changed the world”
This is a Biblical Theme. Also, interestingly, its States in the Book of Proverbs “Commit yourself to Learning and get UnderstandinG”
The wisest man says to the children, “Hear the instruction of your father.” Nobody has time to research and prove all wisdom in one short lifetime. It must be handed down from generation to generation. But a rebellious generation spurns, and thus does not possess the priceless legacy of wisdom. Simpleton, listen to your forebears! “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.”
I Sometimes find Getting Understanding can be tricky, as asking questions takes-up someones time, but alas, I think that one should never be fearful off asking questions from someone more wiser than oneself! (or indeed reading Books/Studying one’s subject-matter)