This is the way I look at it; these people had a character flaw to begin with, and a little bit of power became a conduit for their true self to come out. Which in my eyes is the opposite of what should be. The more responsibility you attain, or the higher ranking you are, the more accountable you HAVE to be. This is how we should be effecting future generations. Granted, it will be effected good, bad, or indifferent. But how about for the BENEFIT of humanity?
What I have learned is to be passed on to others, it is that simple. I already know what I know, and I know what I have accomplished, so it is up to me to impart it. And to build into the lives of others. It is the very least I can do with what I have been given. Helping others to pull out the greatness they have in them is what a martial artist should do. Whether or not you're in the MA's doesn't matter. Giving of yourself is a gift to humanity and it echos your legacy long after you're gone.
Give while you can, be the best you can be with the little time you're granted, and pull others up and help them to be an inspiration to their future generation...just a thought :) ~M
Ninja Hugs and Warrior Blessings!
Monua this is from a note I sent our very young sensei. She was wondering how she could head our school as the least senior black belt. I hope you find it useful.
ReplyDeleteEXCERPT
"This is late because having such a great deal to say, I wound up saying nothing. Of all the points I want to make there is one thing I want to share. Because it pertains to our conversation after dinner Saturday and to your letter this weekend.
Saint Paul, whose theology is not something I love dearly, was an excellent organizer. He shepherded the first century believers into an organization that has lasted a couple thousand years. Even when the church schizmed the pieces persisted. Paul's letters are enduring master pieces of mangement science. In Paul's first letter to the Romans, Paul notes that members of the Christian Community each had diverse gifts. Paul called upon members to contribute according to their gifts and in a particular way. A person giving should give with a spirit generousity . A person offering compassion should do so cheerfully. And a person leading should do so diligently.
Notice what this timeless expert does not ask for from a leader. A leader need not lead expertly, wisely, forcefully or charismatically. A leader leads best when his/her heart is set on being diligent. Diligence is a hard gift to love, like a high pain tolerance, it is good to have such a quality but not lots of fun to exercise that quality. You are leading diligently, doing the work, minding the details, caring about everyone on the mat. That is why you are meeting with success."