Standing in a True Place -- Oct 2007

Started by nick lowry · Sep 16, 2009 · 1 post

(583 posts)
Standing in a True Place -- Oct 2007
Whoever comes into my dojo, on my mat, is under my protection—abuse of any kind will not be tolerated

If you have a need to engage in the ugly energy of fighting, competing, resisting, arguing etc. with anyone in the dojo—then you are in fact fighting with me—the head of the dojo

If you engage in the ugly energy of putting others down, gossiping, breeding distrust and disharmony in order to make yourself feel superior or safe—then you are in fact putting me down—harming me

The dojo is a sacred space dedicated to the pursuit of enlightenment through training of the body and mind in the martial ways—this purpose is incontrovertible and sacrosanct—I am vowed to protect it

The dojo is sustained by a profound energy of respect and decorum—no one may breach this basic energy without consequence—If you cannot submit to and remain in harmony with this energy, then you must go elsewhere—I have expelled members and visitors before, and I will do it again

All that separates what we do in the dojo from mere violence is a thin veil of good will and good manners—when either or both are sacrificed on the altar of ego and self-aggrandizement, the dojo is robbed of its function and magic as a place consecrated for “pursuit of the Way” and risks becoming a venue for crass dominance and dangerous folly—we are not a “fight club,” we will not become a fight club, and I will shut the doors of this place before I see it turn into one


All who enter and train here, regardless of rank or position, must abide by these standards and by this code