is a way of life, not a goal
We all understand that a Black Belt is an achievement award in the Martial Arts. However few understand what it really represents.
Well to explain it fully is not possible as it is not only different for each individual, but also because it is more of a mental and spiritual awakening. This is hard to conceptualize or relate fully in spoken or written word.
In modern times it has diminished in value and inner meaning due to the highly commercialized adaptations. It is now often given as a trophy, token or, dare I say sold... just to pay the bills.
However, even in this instance, it still yields a sense of pride and accomplishment for the recipient. So there is intrinsic value still maintained even through the bastardization of the ideal.
Confidence
Most come into the Martial Arts to gain or re-gain a sense of self, confidence and pride. This has been stripped from us through the indocrinization and programming from the modern educational and societal control systems. They and we, have suffered the same Coup-de-taut of sovereign nations and cultures for some time now.
Deeper meaning
Becoming stronger and more resilient to trial and tribulations within the arduous training of facing an aggressor, the individual also battles with self, not only external sources.
The learning self, defeating fear and doubt, taking pride in accomplishment... is not just the realm of a Black Belt, it is in each one of us if we allow it! But the Black Belt does signify the conscious effort toward achieving these ideals within a rigorous and disciplined physical, mental and spiritual process.
Please look at the image above, it tells a story. It begins a journey as a white belt... the innocent, but what most people do not consider is that white represents yang, strength, aggression and attributes reflective of tension and stress.
Achieving the Black Belt is the defeat of those personal restrictions. The Black represents yin or control, calm, soft and reserved. It is what we strip from our lives, that it truly represents. It is the beginning of a new way of life, devoid of restraints and concern of self or possession beyond self. It is appreciation of our transformation and those aiding or guiding us through the great doorway.
As the belt and practitioner age or season, the belt returns to white from wear, tear and diligence. It also signifies the return of yang, but this time in the form of internal spiritual and mental power. The belt becomes the synthesis of yin and yang or the complete spirit.
The wrapping of the belt around the waist, is the envelopment of the ideal. This cumulates in a soft knot with hanging ends, much like an umbilical cord of duality, not just absorbing new life, but also the giving of it. This symbolism melds in the intertwining motion of the internal and external... the essence of the complete and ever changing development of self.
This is but and introduction
As the journey, ideal and way of life must be experienced. When it is in the mind it is theory, when it is in the hands it is experience.
.
.
.
Image Credit: stateofzen, gettyimages