Karate-Do My Way of Life
By Megan Nixon

Since the fall of man, the human race has been striving to reach that state of perfection that we once had. The drive to be “good” is prevalent in every culture. The definitions of "good" change with the regions, but most of the basic moral values seem to permeate even the coldest of cultures. In this book, those values are prevalent on every page. Though the religion in this book is not one that I personally can commend, the virtues modeled in this book are ones worth practicing, no matter ones beliefs.

Humbleness as defined by the dictionary is: “The state of being humble; to crush, to subdue. To bring down or to lower; to abase the pride of: to reduce arrogance and self dependence.” In short, being humble is the absence pride. That may sound strange but, simply put, if a person is humble, that person must admit to being at fault. In Philippians 2:3 is says “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.” This virtue struck me well in this book. Gichin Funakoshi was a man whose accomplishments merit pride and arrogance. Yet throughout the book he relates personal experiences that, as he looks back on them, were not the smartest choices. He relates these stories to show what consequences there are for certain actions. He was willing to admit that he was wrong and did make wrong choices. Because of that, the experiences he had can help teach others not to make the same mistakes.

Respect: “the course of action which proceeds from esteem.” Having respect for someone or some institution is not just a feeling; it is an action. This virtue is also a fundamental part of karate. In I Peter 2:17 it states “Show proper respect to everyone...”. One shows courtesy to ones teachers and fellow classmates as a sign of respect. Gichin Funakoshi carried this ideal of courtesy and respect into his everyday life
In the first chapter Gichin Funakoshi related the time when his country abolished the top knot. The top knot was a sign of manhood and was a significant part of the culture of Japan. He was a teacher and being in that position saw that he was a role model to his students. Instead of rebelling against the government and thus encouraging the youth to rebel, he had his top knot cut off. He had a respect for his country’s laws even when it meant sacrificing a tradition. Gichin Funakoshi was aware that the world around him was changing and his students’ lives would be very different than those of their parents.

One thing I really liked was the way Gichin Funakoshi talked about his wife. In the part written about her he spoke of her with such love, pride and respect. One could tell that he truly cared for her. In response to that she was supportive of him and his passion for karate. How many young men today realize the importance of respecting the women around them?

Passion: “The feeling of the mind, or the sensible effect of impression; zeal, ardor, vehement desire; suffering emphatically.” Many may think this is not a virtue but what else compelled Christ to die for us, but His burning passion to see His creation free? Because of that passion Christ changed history. What would the world be like if He had denied His passion?

When someone follows their passion in life that person changes everything around them. Gichin Funakoshi had a passion for karate and a vision to see others enjoying what he loved so much in life. He practiced the art whenever he could and found others skilled in karate to teach him, even though karate was illegal in Japan. Gichin Funakoshi loved the art so much he wanted others to enjoy it, so he sought to legalize karate. He went to the universities and even did demonstrations to provoke interest in the art. Because of this, karate was legalized in Japan. He wrote books on the subject and taught others this art. If he had decided to not follow his passion we may be practicing a totally different martial art. What a shame that would be.

Even today Gichin Funakoshi is thought to be the most inspirational founder of the modern karate we know and practice. The values he held helped him reach that position. Humility, respect and passion are just a few that he practiced. Gichin Funakoshi is a man worth emulating. These virtues are powerful, world changing even and we can all benefit by practicing them.