The goals of Koei-Kan Karate-Do, as I see them, are first to convey to the student an efficient and functional system of self defense, second, to expand the knowledge of karate-do history and philosophy, and third, to enhance the society through the improvement of the individual.
Through the study of Koei-Kan Karate-Do, one learns of the three elements that influence and subsequently make up life in general. These include:
- The state of society
- The state of nature
- The state of the individual
In addressing the state of society, I see that the public opinion of right and wrong dominates popular thought and therefore action. It makes sense then that any positive input into the attitudes and opinions of the populace would beneficially affect its laws and beliefs. Koei-Kan Karate-Do serves as a basis for a constructive method of living. Working as a microcosm of life itself by creating challenge and methods for overcoming such challenges, Koei-Kan Karate-Do promotes the concepts of harmony, justice and diligent effort, which are essential to a successful society.
The state of nature has profound effect on life. The food we eat, the water that we drink, and the air that we breathe have certain and sometimes immediate effects. There are also the aesthetic effects of nature as well as the effects of its devastation. The many states of nature illustrate the necessity and function of harmony and co-existence. By keeping a vigilant eye on our responsibilities to and with nature, we may better insure the quality of our lives and the lives of future generations.
It is through the third of these elements that the enormous effect of Koei-Kan Karate-Do is powered. In my belief, the state of the individual is the most important of the aforementioned elements. This belief is based on the presumption that one has more and more immediate control over themselves than either of the other two elements. This presumption is based on the effects of Koei-Kan Karate-Do on my life as an individual. Koei-Kan Karate-Do has instilled in me an insatiable desire to improve in every aspect of life. It has further given me the opportunity to prove that I have much more capability than I had ever imagined. Through this seeming revelation I have been able to enhance my life physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I am without question a better person because of Koei-Kan Karate-Do. I state this not for boast but for reference. Throughout my journey in Koei-Kan Karate-Do, I believe that I have been a more positive influence on those with whom I come in contact. I also know that I have been greatly influenced by others involved in the art and philosophy of Koei-Kan Karate-Do. It therefore appears to me that through the practice and application of Koei-Kan Karate-Do and its philosophies that many people have become positively impacted. As individual health and capabilities (both physical and mental), as well as personal philosophy, character, and integrity improve, so shall the state of society, and therefore, the state of nature shall improve as well. This is accomplished through a more thorough understanding and a deeper appreciation for both the society and the environment.
My roles in attaining the goals of Koei-Kan Karate-Do are as follows:
- To continue my quest to be the best martial artist, student, and human being possible within my realm of capability.
- To continually expand my realm of capability through the practice of kendo-gaku
- To support and spread the techniques, beliefs, philosophies, and standards of this art on the largest possible scale while maintaining its true form and meaning.
Through the diligent and consistent practice of Koei-Kan Karate-Do, one may attain continual personal improvement while beneficially affecting, if only in a small fashion, the lives of those that he or she touches.
