Philosophy
Water Philosophy
When Bruce Lee famously said "Be like water my friend", he was speaking of an age old foundation of martial arts, water philosophy. Water philosophy is an illustration of how the characteristics of water should be applied to the movement and mindset of any martial artist. Below are some lessons to be learned from the characteristics of water:
- Water is formless and therefore takes the shape of any container as a martial artist should aspire to be able to adjust to any situation.
- Water will always flow around an object, taking the path of least resistance as a good martial artist should find the most intelligent solution rather than fight an immovable object.
- Over time water can wear a whole through the strongest of stones. This demonstrates the value of persistence.
- Water can be a crashing wave or a tiny drop as a martial artist should be able to vary his or her approach based on the situation
Lotus Philosophy
As with much eastern philosophy Lotus Philosophy looks to nature to create a metaphor for life. Lotus Philosophy looks at the nature of the water born lotus for direction on how to aspire to live. Below are a few aspects of Lotus Philosopy:
- The lotus flower has roots which are born in the mud beneath water which symbolizes the society which provides the foundation of any persons life but is not always pure.
- As it grows it needs the support of the water to build a strong base and wash off the dirt so it can grow strong. As does a person need the support of family and friends in positive and pure actions as they grow towards adulthood. The water the lotus grows in must have the proper depth, too deep and it will never reach the surface, too shallow and it will not be strong enough when it does reach the surface. As with people they must be supported enough to learn the ways of life but not too much so that they never learn to stand on their own.
- The lotus then breaks the surface of the water towards the purity of the air and the sun where it flowers without the direct support of the water. As with a person they reach their greatest beauty and success as they become capable of making decisions on their own and strive for pure and right choices. The lotus can't grow too high from the water or else it will break as any person must remember that life can't be conquered alone, you still need the support of your family and friends even in your finest moments.
- Finally, the lotus must stay in its environment. It can't be removed from the mud or live without the water. People must always remember where they come from and what it has taken to get there. Being aware of societies goods and bads as well as those who have supported you along the way is important to success in life.
Chung Mu Hap Ki Do Philosophy
The first character IN represents Perfect Virtue. In order to develop Perfect Virtue, one must have a compassionate and sympathetic mind. Having honorable thoughts promotes greater harmony within our lives.
The second character UI stands for Justice. Humanity must cultivate the feelings of indignation that arise when confronted with injustice or evil. In the same sense, we experience the shame and guilt when we participate in or witness unjust and evil acts. Honorable actions fascilitate harmony within human relationships.
The third character YEH means Etiquette. Etiquette comes from concession and integrity. YEH arises by selflessly placing another's needs before your own. Proper behavior benefits all those involved in a relationship. YEH encompasses manners as well as etiquette.
The final character, JI, means wisdom. Sagacious actions are evidence that we have the wisdom to distinguish between right and wrong.
