(from Mr. Conatser's Facebook page)
I was reading a recent article/post concerning comments which had something to do with the whole system of awarding belts, grades and titles, which seems to be a sensitive topic for many karate practitioners... and also for those that don’t practice any of the various Arts, which often strikes a negative chord with many.
The title/rank system was created to encompass a hierarchy awarded to practitioners based on their proficiency, knowledge, and contributions to the art.
While some see it as a valuable marker of progress, yet others view it as elitist, egotistical or lacking transparency.
Strong opinions on both sides seem to lead to some very critical comments.
In addition to any grading system, (which is another deeply emotional topic), it is utilized by the majority of martial arts teachers.
When the titles are awarded/created, they acknowledge not just the technical prowess but also proficiency in teaching, character, and contributions to an art's preservation and evolution.
Any belt recognition/title is usually associated with one's leadership position in a given Association due to either foundation, time and or contribution to the art practiced and taught.
While this rank/title system traditionally serves as a hallmark of recognition and structure, it seems to give grounds for a huge amount of criticism by some.
The primary reasons for this criticism most likely stems from the perception of elitism.
Some practitioners, (perhaps those without titles themselves), seem to view the awarding of titles as a form of exclusivity that creates a divide between those who hold titles and those who do not.
Actually using such traditional titles as "Grandmaster, master, sifu, sensei, or others are titles utilized by most today.
This perception in question is, "what is the criteria" for earning these awards/ titles seems unclear or perceived to be biased, leading to feelings of resentment, jealousy, elitist, or alienation.
The lack of transparency in acquiring these titles are often criticized and raise concerns about the fairness, objectivity, legitimacy, and process, questioning whether they are truly earned based on merit, skill or just a proclamation of leadership.
Those that keep adding a prefix or suffix "title" prior to their name IMHO is unnecessary to remind everyone of your status whether (earned or just labled).
Humility is one of the admirable traits of a true leader given by those that want to honor such individuals based on their accomplishments and thus status.
The process of learning, for those that have maintained, persevered, evolved and earned such a title, maybe should be thought of just like the old Okinawan proverb: 'Your fist should remain hidden up your sleeve until somebody comes looking for it.’ - unless of course you court criticism.
Historical facts are ... the teachers of the martial Arts Ancestry were compensated with shelter, clothing, food and other necessities they may need, in exchange for spiritual and physical guidence.
Respect, Honor, and reverance was 'given' by the appreciative students who were the recipients of great knowledge, skill and spiritual guidence.
However, (and this is a BIG reality) as the "BUSINESS" of "teaching the Arts" came into development it brought many factors which in some cases affords the opportunity of some to utilize and misuse or "demand" positional respect instead of earning it from their students.
Let us realize "EACH of us needs ALL of us" and we must remain Humble and retain Honor to our Ancestors who walked before us and gave us the foundation of discipline, respect, skills, knowledge, and inspiration to pass on to the future generations these precepts to all we teach.
"It is our profound obligation"-!!
"Time will either promote you or expose you".
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