Archive for February 2018
Karate Title Changes
Changing karate titles are a natural part of our dojo’s martial arts culture. In Japan, people have changed their names: when they became the head of a household or a company; to demonstrate allegiance; and when their social status evolved, among other reasons. They have even changed their names to shed bad luck. And artists…
Read MoreName Changes: A Japanese Tradition
Over the years, I have noticed that Okinawan and Japanese people historically change their names – a lot. Usually their last name or surname evolves. But there are also nicknames bestowed that seem to take the place of given names. About 60 percent down on this Wikipedia listing, under “Historical Names” and “Professional Names” you…
Read MoreMartial Arts in Movies vs. Real Life
Many people are first introduced to martial arts in movies. For me, Hollywood played a part in sparking my interest when I started karate. On-screen stories often successfully portray karate’s traditional values like perseverance in The Last Samurai. In addition, many stories of respect, good moral character, even honesty and restraint come out of martial…
Read More3 Tips on Japanese for English-Speakers
In traditional Okinawan karate, we promote the culture that created our art. Language is an influential part of culture. The Japanese language remains the most enduringly difficult part of my martial arts training. Like a thorn in my side, it occasionally causes agonizing discomfort. Yet it’s survivable. And I don’t even notice it or think…
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