So when is it ok to seek help and answers outside of your hombu school? I was formerly under an instructer who would loose his grip on reality if he found out you were seeking additional answers outside our dojo? Does this constitute disloyalty, or is it just self progression?

Anytime you are told you can't, you definately should.

Anytime you go behined your instructors back, you are being dishonest.

I would speak to him and ask him why he doesn't want you seeking answers outside. Failing that, ask your instructor the question and if he can't answer it, ask if he can find the answer for you. Then if that doesn't work, stuff him, find the answer yourself.... you tried.

I did tell him what I was doing and he barrated me in front of the class, he stated that he is a 7th don and not to be questioned!

That's when you say "Yes sir" and walk out, never to question him again.

Seems pretty clear he is on a bit of a ego trip, don't train there.

I am now training with one of his former senior students who also left from under him

If you are inexperienced and just comparing styles - That's ok.

However, if you are inexperienced, asking and doing what other styles say to do as correct, picking up bad habbits in the process due to your lack of understanding - This is very wrong!

If you are experienced, then seeking your own path - This is fine to do...

- Killer -

Anytime you are told you can't, you definately should.

I agree.

If you're paying for the instruction, you do not own any thing to the instructor. Imho, he is threaten by you going elsewhere, and most likely feels you and your money will go out the door, never to return.

Never stay where you are berated in front of other students, be the adult, and don't drink the cool aid.

David

When I had my dojos, I never pressured anyone to stay at my dojo, or to only learn our style. If they wanted to discuss differences between styles, it was a welcomed conversation. However, when they came into my dojo to train, and they didn't want to follow our style and methods, they were welcome to go elsewhere... I taught Karate for the Love of Karate and to spread the teachings. Not for the money or quantity, just Quality!

- Killer -