RichardZ

Indeed, there are different ways or criteria for testing from different arts-orgs. The requirements are laid out and expected to be met. Therefore, if a art-org, is comfortable with awarding the rank, so be it. I am rather uncomfortable with all ranking to begin with, as it strays away from its purpose towards some others more contradictory to what martial arts were and should be, IMHO.

Great. But to enjoy something, fable or not, we have to distinguish upon this as we communicate such in a way, that others do not misinterpret this as one having little to no knowledge. In other words, it has to be known, that a person saying something, which may be inorrect, pointed out that all realises it is incorrect, including the poster. For example, if one is to post that the Samurai wore pink poka dotted underwear that look like Hanes briefs, it would have to be distiguished that perhaps this is incorrect or that it was to be a thought from a untangible opinion.

I agree. And this is what I am alluding to. Somewhere, I had posted, people react different. Also, after 40 years in martial arts, experiencing and observing street confrontations, brawls, etc., there is no time, no premeditative thought to execute any pressure point. It is more improbable than impossible.

I always found it amusing that it was called "corporal punishment". ")

He would have not had bad relations. US presidents of either accepted or rejected certian "gifts" from people-countries over time.

I had actually told one of mine; "Is that all you have, old man?" Then swoosh, I was on the floor and cannot remember how I got there.

Moms are cool. My mom convinced my dad to put me into Judo as I had a disciplinary problem, mainly to fight. She was told via a friend, that martial arts could help.

I have collected so much martial art stuff since the 60's and 70's. I even collected martial art "related stuff, such as lunch boxes, cards, firgurines, toys, books, mags, etc. And strange, has anyone here, upon their starting in martial arts, or some time or another, were given gifts or items, oriental in nature-subject, because non martial artists who gave them, believe this is appropriately linked?

I can answer this. It is because few use it to boast ego and status thus letting skill and experience fall below par. In essence, of many martial art "by laws", the title soke is extremely rare. Indeed, such insignia and "title" could be considered as accomplishments, however, within martial arts and no standards thereof, by laws are subjected to those who are recognised by their peers, outside of their orgs. Simply one who ranks 8th in one org-art, is not to be seen as having double the skill or knowledge of another who ranks 4th in another org-art.

Of course. So a martial artist is likewise to a warrior?

Interesting. So if we are to throw them around like dirty clothes, why bother to wear them?

sensei8, Have you reserached/read; The Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai Tokugawa Bushido The traditions of Japanese Bushido-Steve Lussing The Development and Psychology of Bushido and Budo - Paul D. Short Bushido: The Soul of Japan - Inazo Nitobe Many historians tend to pull away form what people tend to have a "written" asscociation.

I dont think it is off topic, as the thread may seem to be that of promotion. Well, I dont know. The sparring seems to be a little maladroitly IMHO.

Actually, it had increased my speed as much as strength.

Win? Nothing to win or lose. This is all good discussion.

No worries. I am glad to see that you are astounded with whatever you are doing and these vids.

Kez. If you are taking anti-depression medicine, careful, as this could do more harm than good. We all are faced with the trials and tribulation associated with life. We must do what we have to do and make adjustments along the way. The path of martial arts is never hidden or lost. We may have to get off the path, but it is always there, waiting, in most cases, where we left. Some believe, like other hobbies, etc., martial arts have a value far past its physical and fighting aspects. It is to be a area to focus and channel much, even thus going into the disciplines of the mind. Martial arts, and becoming a father, has made me appreciate many things, and pull out of many stressful situations-problems. I wish you all the best, and whenever you ready to get back into martial arts, it will come to you. Meanwhile, do not get so concerned and/or upset about not training. Perhaps, a good break is what you had needed.

Did you post that twice? So, are we to take the word "warrior", which has the basis of "war", the same way we take the term "martial" off the basis of martial arts...Interesting

Well, videos are ok to watch, I dont see how thse have anything to do with the subject of this thread, or place of this thread, and forum area....IMHO

I noticed that. As I could add forthright comments to the age as well. And, I am trying to handle it with "kid gloves". Let me state, with utmost due respect; I am not a art-style basher. If something isn't my cup of tea, I try to remain nonchalant about it. Until someone rams it in my face and waves their hands like it is the greatest thing since the invention of the wheel. Not, that you are trying to do this, I am generalising and being rhetorical. this demo was for fun, not for competition,... I never said it was the best school ever ( nor did you say that i did) but out of all the schools I looked at, OhDoKwon being one of them ( the black belt video school) this by far was the best school, and the best choice for me, I was overly impressed by the instructors, there skill level, the skill level of various black belts red belts and green belts that I've seen. i have a few more videos i need to make them shorter and i will post the links,.. and thanks @joesteph it was a good opportunity for me to meet all the instructors,.. and get a really good discounted rate We established it was for fun. I understand what you are conveying-completely. As long as you understand, I mean no disrespect, and wish you all the best, by saying, if you are satisified, that is all that matters.

I noticed that. As I could add forthright comments to the age as well. And, I am trying to handle it with "kid gloves". Let me state, with utmost due respect; I am not a art-style basher. If something isn't my cup of tea, I try to remain nonchalant about it. Until someone rams it in my face and waves their hands like it is the greatest thing since the invention of the wheel. Not, that you are trying to do this, I am generalising and being rhetorical. Last, if you are satisfied, this is all that matters, IMHO.

I choose a martial art, not for a style, but for a chance to improve myself in what ever I may have lacking.

If you want more details I am reluctant, as I maybe a bit too forthright. Lets say, I have seen better demos. But I understand it was for fun.

To me, an honary doctrate represents a particular field an individual had strived for and recognised by peers within that field. . In the course of anything, per a rank or doctrate, if it isnt hard core learned, it should be easy scored earned. Lastly, anything so "honorary" isnt so "honorable", as the givers have a hidden agenda to bestow this "short cut" to one who is really not derserving as one who put their sweat and tears into it.

Well, I could give another opinion(s) of those vids as well.