Character

Abraham Lincoln once said, "Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." If there's one recurring theme in the news, it's the abuse of power. Leaders and authority figures of every stripe seem to be involved in one scandal or another. Judges, politicians, law enforcers, and school teachers all make the headlines. The acquisition of power precedes corruption, or so it seems for the morally challenged.

The development of honor and ethics are at the forefront of martial arts philosophy. At least it's preached that way. But paying lip service to these positive qualities isn't enough; they must be put into action. This is character. It is said that training in the martial arts strengthens one's resolve or purpose. This is what Lincoln meant by "stand(ing) adversity". Can this lead to the development of character? Does enduring the hardships of shugyo (intense training) necessarily make one virtuous?

Warriors of every class and culture throughout history have played the roles of both hero and villain. Absolutely and without a doubt, there are saints and sinners amongst us in the modern martial arts as well. Power derived from learning a combative skill can be a blessing or a curse. Wielding this kind of power requires responsibility, wisdom, proper restraint, and character. I don't believe training in the martial ways necessarily gives rise to these traits automatically, but must be acquired through reflective living, learning from mistakes, and resisting the temptation of ego-gratification.