Simple Lessons:

Short, concise lessons and concepts helpful to students and teachers

The Law of Personal Responsibility

By Terry Bryan

Because the warrior deals with life and death situations, he understands the concept of one encounter – one chance. He understands that not knowing the difference between real or false, or allowing himself unconsciously to be weakened by negative ideas, thoughts or actions, or even weak training habits, can be the difference between life and death.

A true warrior understands that life or death is totally his responsibility. He can never rely on someone else possibly showing up to help.

Thus, the training we do every day – mental, physical and spiritual — will be the foundation for success on the battlefield and in life.

For the warrior or the sincere martial artist, personal responsibility is not an option. It is 100% mandatory. Where you will be tomorrow is directly dependent on what you do today. Successful people take a high degree of responsibility over their lives, and there is a direct correlation between a feeling of self-control and high self-esteem.

Success has been defined as having the greatest number of positive experiences over the longest period of time. Responsible people are proactive in making those experiences happen. Make it a point today to take responsibility for your own life and get away from blaming others for anything.

Terry L. Bryan
Terry Bryan is a disabled Viet Nam veteran, as he was wounded during his last tour in a rocket attack. He currently holds an 8th degree black belt in Kojosho Kempo and a 7th Dan grading through the World Karate Federation. Over the years he has earned black belt rankings in other styles as well, including Shaolin Chuan Fa, Shotokan and Shorin Ryu. He is currently the Executive Director for the American Shorin Kempo Karate Association, a non-profit organization teaching martial arts and self defense in the Colorado Springs area. Previously he served as the General Secretary for the USA-NKF (National Karate Federation), the official governing body for the sport of karate with the US Olympic Committee.