I just tested for a Blue belt… and I had a few cathartic realizations. Of which, these are not: A) Wow, it’s hot in Los Angeles right now. B) Polyester does NOT breathe. C) Water is a privilege, not a right. D) Sweat is only sexy for the first hour. The actual realizations were these: For as much as I’m suffering right now, it will soon be over and forgotten; what will NOT be forgotten, however, are the accomplishments and rewards that result. This, of course, goes for anything in life (which is what makes it cathartic and not just a thought). Frederick Douglas was right when he said, “Without struggle, there cannot be progress.” …for the simple fact that struggle is the best marker of comparison. I found myself, while in the test, saying, “I really have it good.” I have food when I’m hungry, a bed when I’m tired, and this blog when I’m lonely! …and for the simple fact that we don’t always know how much we’re capable of until we are pushed past, and out of, our comfort zone. If we’re creatures of survival, then being pushed to survive shows us we’re alive. (No pot was smoked during the writing of this blog) We all feed off each other’s energy. Whether you’re a realist or a spiritualist, it’s easy to see that we affect each other’s attitudes. Personally, I’m both, and my theories have to exist on both planes to gain my acceptance. If Chi is nothing more than attitude… if Chi is simply endorphins and serotonin levels… the fact still remains that the body follows the mind. The energy of the other students lifted my own and that got me to physically power through it. If it’s a matter of psychology, then so be it. It still works and the body still responds in kind. And lastly, everything in life seems very possible when you (I) can overcome physical challenges.
