RESPECT: Treating others the way you want to be treated

One of the key tenets of martial arts, in general, and especially the Moo Duk Kwan philosophy, is the concept of Respect. If you Google search the term "respect" you will find a myriad of definitions, quotes, anecdotes and words of wisdom.

"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

"Respect is earned, not given."

"Respect is a two-way street."

To name a few.

But to me, the term respect boils down to one truth: Respect is treating others the way you want to be treated. But more to the point - the way they DESERVE to be treated. When you put others first, you will soon find that you will be rewarded with like-kind treatment.

Our theme for the next cycle is Respect. We will demonstrate how to pay respect to our elders, to our partners, and to ourselves. We will explain the values of respect -- kindness, caring, courtesy. Our students will learn how to show respect on the dojang as well as in their daily lives; in their actions, words and deeds.

However, respect (one's soft side), alone is not enough. It must be counter-balanced with Discipline (one's hard side) -- professionalism, standardization, commitment -- in order to achieve harmony. Respect without discipline may make one overly comfortable. While discipline, alone, may make others uncomfortable. Together, there is a balance, thereby strengthening oneself as well as improving human relations. 1

Over the past year, we have been blessed by all of the kindness and generosity of our Moo Do community.The relationships that have been cultivated through our training in Soo Bahk Do are paying rich dividends. Our roots are strong, and now, we have the opportunity to share our harvest with new students. And everyday, we are striving to earn their respect, as much as they are giving it back. The mutual respect we share with our Moo Do sisters and brothers will strengthen our foundation, our Art and our world for many years to come.

1 "The Five Moo Do Values In Action," H.C. Hwang, KJN, https://fivemoodovalues.wordpress.com/2014/06/26/the-five-moo-do-values-in-action/