Perspective means everything

This month I have learned that how I view various challenges, and happenings will create, and affect what happens within that moment. If I see it in a negative light, I can't help but respond to it in a defensive manner. This revelation opened up an important growth as I train for my Kyokushin Black Belt test.

I realized that I could feel overwhelmed, engulfed, and even afraid of what the future will bring by seeing each challenge as insurmountable. The more that I value the Rank of Black Belt the more I understand how much I need to invest myself mentally, physically, and spiritually into this goal.

It has been 5 years since I earned my Shodan in Shotokan in front of a Master, almost 9 years since I started training in Karate, and I still feel that I have so much more to learn. However, last Friday I learned that it is all one's perspective... to the newer white belts of a Dojo, I could appear to them as already accomplished, and knowledgeable. I remember when I was a beginning student, and how the Brown belts were so quick to respond to Sensei's commands. I was in awe, and even frightened of having to learn so many things.

I believe the key to handling difficult challenges is to view them with the proper perspective. Not too hard, not too soft.. with a balance where each aspect is resolved, and solidified, before tackling the next step. This reminds me of self-defense where you must handle each issue as it appears, and not get caught up in your imaginations, and fears, but be aware of all things that occur, and react appropriately.