“Commit yourself to the noble struggle for equal rights. You will make a greater person of yourself, a greater nation of your country, and a finer world to live in.” Martin Luther King Jr The above quote was taken from when Martin Luther King Jr. address 26,000 high school and college students on April 18, 1959.
As soon as I read this quote it instantly reminded me of one of our philosophical banners hanging in our dojang:
"When one develops virtue in their spirit, then there will be honor in their character. When one has honor in their character, then there will be respect in their home. When there is respect in the home, then there will be harmony in the nation. When there is harmony in the nation, then there will be peace throughout the world."
This scroll details the “ripple effect” that results from diligent and sincere training. It explains that training in martial arts is not a selfish activity merely for personal benefit and improvement. Rather, the purpose is to develop ourselves so that we can enhance and contribute to our own families. This in turn will contribute to our community and our nation. Finally, these efforts can make a positive impact throughout the world.
Martin Luther King Jr. was the spark of so many ripple effects and as individuals we need to think how we can be that spark for those around us; and more important actually become the spark for a better world and community.
Be ready to work hard to improve ourselves, others around us and our community in your next class!
- Master Scarsella