Folks,
I have to say that the MOST aggravating question about martial arts training, is usually one of the most common. When people find out that I am a martial artist they first ask " Are you a black belt?" After my reluctant answer in the affirmative, they usually tell me about their ten your old neice or nephew who also wears a black belt. Notice I said wear. They actually say "is" a black belt, but real martial artists KNOW that one cannot be a legitimate black belt at 10.
When I mention that I have been training for my entire life in the martial arts, they usually ask when I got my black belt. When I tell them at age "19" they usually trip out. They ask me why so long, and I tell them that there is more to black belt than physical skills and techniques. I tell them that I had NO control over my anger when I was younger, and that my father would not award me a black belt until I had more control.
They almost look relieved when I tell them that, like 16 years is FAR too long to achieve a goal worth achieving. Then, the question comes " Well how long does it usually take to get a black belt." Not earn, "get." Well, after I say my internal " dont get mad" mantra, I say "Well, it depends. On how long and how often you train." I say something like, " Well if you train 4 times a week or so, and about 75 minutes a class, I would say about 4 years or so." Then I wait for the shock.
"FOUR years?!!? Why so long?" Then they tell me again about the person they know who got theirs in 2 years at the ( Insert name here) "Kroddy" school. After I swallow the revulsion, I try to explain logically. Think of a black belt in terms of high school. It takes 4 years to get the basics down pat. A black belt is NOT the end, it is the beginning. It is like a high school diploma." Martial arts is a LONG path to mastery. To be competent is one thing. To absorb and ingest all of the benefits that martial arts has to offer, it takes a while. In four years of steady training, I can teach a person how to adequately utilize a functional comprehensive curiculuum. I can give a solid foundation on how to defend ones-self against MOST types of attack in that time.
Fact is folks, I am unapologetic about my time frame. I will NOT disrespect my teacher or my belief in martial arts value by giving any shortcuts. I have yet to award a black belt, but I do NOT feel like I HAVE to award one. I will NOT award one to anyone under 18. It is what I believe and I will not compromise principle for profit. Fact is that most of us could drive at age 15. The law says that you have to wait until you are 16. I will NOT award a black belt to a "child" in the eyes of the law.
For the folks who possess exceptional aptitude and a high learning curve, good for you, But if you really understand what the martial arts are all about, the wait should NOT worry you. All good things come to those who are diligent, not just patient. So dont focus on the belt, work hard and enjoy your training. It makes the path seem a LOT shorter. This is coming from your friend, Anthony Thomas, Kenpo iconoclast!
