The ultimate aim of martial arts is about taking what we practice so diligently on the mat --and putting it to work in the world. It's best expressed like this: Out of the dojo and into the world.

Out of the dojo and into the world.

Peace is more important than punches.

Yes, a black belt should be able to execute precise, effective, beautiful, and technically proficient martial arts techniques, whatever the style. But just as importantly, a black belt should be able to execute precise and beautiful ideas, equal to or better than their physical techniques. A black belt should have an attitude equal in its brilliance to his or her physical skills.

Your job as a teacher is to show your students, through this journey you're taking yourself, how to be the ultimate student.

Shift travels downhill.