Beginner martial arts students often inquire: “How long until I attain a black belt?” Many envision the black belt as the pinnacle of mastery, the culmination of their journey. However, they overlook the essence of the journey itself and the diverse phases one traverses toward proficiency.
Similarly, in Shodo, practitioners ponder: “How long until I can brush a masterpiece“. Given individual differences, providing a precise timeline for achieving decent calligraphy is challenging. In our tradition, we don’t measure proficiency in time but in repetition. We adhere to the principle of HYAKUREN JITOKU (百錬自得), where the true self emerges after ten thousand repetitions. Essentially, mastery demands an extensive investment of time.
These words aren’t meant to discourage but rather to inspire a focus on the journey rather than the destination. The journey presents numerous milestones to celebrate, conceptualized as the six stages of development. Each stage contributes to honing our craft, not as steps on a ladder but as experiences that may unfold individually or concurrently.
The initial stage, Keiko (稽古), embodies “practice,” where one repetitively engages in activities to attain proficiency. Similarly, Shodo involves writing exercises and tirelessly repeating strokes to refine technique, not to create finished pieces but to reach ten thousand repetitions.
Renshu (練習), the second stage, denotes “training,” focusing on action to grasp teachings and refine skills. Workshops and seminars facilitate a more profound understanding and immersion in training.
Kunren (訓練), the third stage, embodies “discipline,” achieved after years of dedicated practice and training. It necessitates a commitment to the art fueled by intrinsic motivation.
Tanren (鍛錬), the fourth stage, denotes “forging” and encapsulates shaping and strengthening oneself through rigorous practice and refinement. Central to this journey is the concept of SHOSHIN (初心), the beginner’s mind, which instills a mindset of openness and receptivity, driving continual growth and advancement.
Kufu (工夫), the fifth stage, represents “ingenuity,” where practice evolves into deep study requiring patience and energy. It entails relentless effort and a commitment to continuous improvement, perhaps even mentoring others. Creativity begins to manifest as Kufu, which involves creative thinking and problem-solving.
And finally, we have Shugyo (修行), encapsulating the essence of “all of the above.” Shugyo encompasses practice, training, discipline, forging and ingenuity. It transcends mere intellectual understanding, evolving into a self-transcending spiritual practice that permeates daily life. It is the ultimate union of physical and mental training where practice is life itself.
Martial arts and calligraphy lose their significance if confined to the dojo. Why dedicate oneself to these disciplines if their essence dissipates once the ink is washed from the brush or the gi and gloves are hung up? Instead, carry the lessons of Shugyo with you, integrating them into every aspect of life. Embrace the journey fully, for it is in applying these disciplines beyond their traditional confines that their actual value is realized.
The journey towards mastering martial arts and calligraphy is not merely a quest for a black belt, title, or award but a profound exploration of self-discovery and personal growth. Each stage contributes to a holistic understanding that extends beyond the confines of the dojo. Shugyo, the ultimate stage, transcends mere skill acquisition, becoming a way of life that enriches every moment with purpose and meaning. As practitioners, let us embrace the journey wholeheartedly, recognizing that true mastery lies not in reaching a destination but in the continuous pursuit of excellence, both with or without brush in hand.