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Compassion
through Self-Cultivation
“In
today’s rapidly changing times and the gradual is integration
of culture, there is a strong need for an art form with a true
philosophical base – one that emphasizes continual self-cultivation
and refinement. This art should have at its core the development
of the Individual and be designed to promote a genuine concern
and responsibility to other human beings, not try to encourage
aggression and a ‘win only’ attitude. Martial arts should
focus on the development of the individual in which the ultimate
goal is to continuously strive to develop the positive qualities
within each of us; this is the true essence of Australian Goju
Kai Karate.”
“Traditional
karate is not a dance; it is a way of effective self-defence and
a way of life.”
"Everything in
the universe depends on other things for its existence. From the
smallest atom to the largest galaxy, things are always changing.
If conditions are right, they come into existence; if conditions
change, they cease to exist. Life on Earth depends on air, water
and the heat of the sun. If any of those things changed, human
life would stop. Each thing depends on everything else."
"You must, above all, learn the art of true and real patience.
Follow the "Way" of patience to the seventh power and
never be in a hurry to learn. Always think first and avoid acting
rashly. Never harm anyone or let yourself be harmed." Chojun
Miyagi
The Last Teachings
"Do not be struck by others.
Do not strike others.
The principle is the peace without incident." Chojun Miyagi
Five Secrets of Japanese Goju Ryu
"Move quickly.
Sound, calm mind.
Be light in body.
Have a clever mind.
Master the basics." Gogen Yamaguchi
Budo vs. Bujitsu - Gogen Yamaguchi
"Budo is concerned with an Individuals search for something,
whereas the Bujutsu is concerned with the application of the art
or the technique. Budo is the way, where as the Bujutsu refers
to the technique. Through the practice of Bujutsu, the way of
Budo can be followed. The literal translation of the word Budo
is 'not to use spear' which means 'not to fight' or 'stop fighting'.
The way of Budo is not to be concerned with winning... winning,
sport and the competitive spirit are not the way to understand
Budo. It is rare to come across a real artist who practices Budo,
I doubt if many really exist."
"Karate requires
you to make a strenuous effort night and day, before you achieve
understanding. Strong Spirit and Will Power, so that we can overcome
our own interests.
It is very important
to exercise every day, not to be come bored, not to give into
anguish. Essentially the purpose of karate was to protect ourselves,
but now through karate we are not only training our bodies, but
our minds.
Therefore, The Way
is not to attack another, but to restrain yourself, we should
not do harm to others.
Accordingly, your emphasis
should not be on skills, but on training your mind. If you are
impatient, you can not expect improvement in your skill. If you
become arrogant and over- confident in your skills, you should
not be involved in the study of karate.
The major teachings
of karate are to achieve confidence in yourself , to be polite,
maintain peace and tranquility of mind. You should pay tribute
to your parents, ancestors and master. You should also be in harmony
with your friends.
You must keep them
in mind and not become arrogant and over- confident. It is extremely
important to keep and show reverence to your master, otherwise,
even if you are great at karate, you will follow the path of extreme,
your desire for understanding can never be attained.
If you stop learning
karate, spontaneously you are forced to do that.
You have to know it is a long way to polish your skill, train
your spirit and keep tranquillity of mind; to get rid of our own
interests and do what is the right thing.
After you become aware
of these, you will know the greatness of gods.
For you to achieve this you must discard your own interest and
then you will understand The Way."
AGKK
Philosophies © 2002 Bernie Haughey, AGKK
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