It is understandable that people not familiar with modern MA thinks that all black belt - including 1. Dan is experts in their MA. People who studies MA knows - or should know - that this is not true. If you, as an novice black belt, introduces yourself as an MA expert - you are not only fooling yourself, but also the people you instruct.
A 1. Dan black belt have enough techniques to defend him- /herself against one opponent. mark the words - enough techniques. You still have to use the correct technique, correct timing and power/speed to overcome the opponent. A 1. Dan may be seen as a bird who just have learned to fly.
The development of respect, awe and trepidation for our martial art (and a car) and its wonderful effects on students, comes only with large amounts of time, dedication and sacrifice.
At the coloured belt level (Gup- level) you build the foundation. At the black belt level (Dan level) you build the house - it is at this level you start studying technique "for real".
A coloured belt does often not meet high rank instructors, and therefore compares their self with their own instructors - and in this comparing the instructor is an "expert" in the students eyes. A black belt do more often meet high rank instructors or students, and discovers how little he/she knows about the MA - and the work that lies in front before he/she may be considered as an expert. Mark the words: be considered to be an expert. You are not an expert because of what you self or your students think. You do first really become an expert when other people at your own level (or above) consider you to be an expert.
When entering the world of black belts - you will be watched closely. Your students will use you as an idol - your students family may consider you as an "expert" - other black belts will monitor your behaviour. A black belt who do not follow the principles of the MA will not only harm his/her own status, but also the status of all black belts - not only restricted to the MA he/she represents. Remember that it is not only your actions inside the do-jang (training room) that counts, but often more important your actions outside the do-jang. You do not leave your MA with your belt......
Many MA students do become a black belt holder. Some of them will develop to become real experts - and many be even masters - but many will believe the misunderstanding that all black belts are experts and therefore become novice forever - both in technique and mental state.
You never stop learning and developing .........
Øyvind Sæter - Dec. 16 1996.
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