Knocking on the Temple Doors

There was once an ancient temple, tucked away in a remote valley, cradled by the embrace of a majestic mountain range. The grand wooden doors at its entrance stood imposing but silent. Shrouded in mystery, the temple was said to be the home of profound wisdom and deep spiritual enlightenment.

One day, a young monk named Haruto, with dreams and determination as fierce as the winter winds, arrived at the temple entrance. He had travelled from a distant village, driven by a yearning for knowledge and a heart brimming with unyielding resolve. Standing before the imposing doors, Haruto took a deep breath and knocked. The sound echoed into the quiet expanse. Then after a minute or so, a gentle yet firm elderly voice responded from the other side, "Go away. You cannot enter!". Undeterred, Haruto returned the next day, and the day after that, each time greeted by the same rejection, "Go away. You cannot enter!".

The seasons passed by - glorious cherry blossoms gave way to the vibrant autumn hues, only to be blanketed by winter’s serene cloak. Yet, Haruto's resolve did not waver. Every dawn, he stood before the temple, knocking for hours, only to hear the same words. Villagers, witnessing his relentlessness, whispered among themselves, admiring his unwavering spirit yet wondering if his efforts were in vain. But Haruto’s heart beat with the rhythm of determination, each knock a testament to his perseverance.

Years flowed like the mountain streams until one fateful morning. As the first light of day caressed the temple doors, Haruto knocked once more. This time, the door creaked open, revealing an elderly figure. It was a senior monk, his eyes a mirror of ancient wisdom and warmth. The monk's face, etched with age and serenity, broke into a soft, gentle smile.

"Young man, you have proven your commitment and determination," the old man said, his voice a balm to Haruto's weary spirit. "You may enter and join us, but be warned - today is only the beginning of your life's journey."

Tears of gratitude glistened in Haruto’s eyes as he set his first footsteps inside. As the day went by, Haruto met other monks in the temple, which he found was not just a place of learning, but a profound community united by shared purpose and wisdom. It was in those moments that Haruto realised that he was where he truly belonged.

The years of knocking, and being sent away, had been a crucial part of his journey, preparing him for the enlightenment that awaited within.

This story of Haruto and the temple, mirrors the journey of a martial art student in the pursuit of the coveted black belt. For years, a student trains tirelessly, often feeling the weight of rejection, their progress measured against the exacting standards of their art. Each practice session, each moment of struggle, is a knock on the door of mastery. It is a test of their patience, commitment, and resilience. When the day finally comes, the worthy student is finally awarded the black belt, but then told that this is just the beginning of their path.

Just as Haruto’s entry into the temple marked the start of his true journey, receiving a black belt signifies a martial artist's commencement of a deeper exploration. While it is an acknowledgment of the student's dedication, and understanding of fundamental principles, it also provides a gateway to greater challenges and further learning.

Promotion to black belt, or 'kuro obi', symbolizes an invitation to embark on the true path of budo (martial arts), one in which techniques, history and philosophy form the essence of ones being. It is a journey that is infinite, and every step forward is both a triumph and a new beginning.