Who we are is a compilation of all our experiences, all of the lessons we learned, and the knowledge we have gained. A common practice in martial arts is to wear a white uniform and a colored belt. The belt starts as white and with the more experience and knowledge acquired, the belt changes color and grows darker until it is black; all the while our uniform remains a clean white. This visual of our advancement is a point of pride and confidence. But why only the belt? Why not change uniform color as well? Our white uniform is to symbolize that while our abilities and knowledge has deepened, we remain open to new lessons and experience. Everyday we enter our practice as a blank canvas, ready to be drawn upon. Each and every class and lesson sinks into our belt, but not our ability and willingness to learn and gain experience.
Let’s take that lesson beyond the mat and present ourselves to the world each day as a fresh canvas upon which to paint.
~Master Staup