Kumite in Politics

As an Old School Okinawan Karate Sensei, I was taught, teach, and practice Kumite under certain conditions:

1  There are pre-agreed rules of combat in Kumite;

2)  There is a level of professionalism and respect that is expected of all combatants;

3)   There is a level of force that is not crossed and expected control therein;

4)     Always bow to your opponent demonstrating a level of respect and honor;

5)    No matter if out matched, we all maintain the level of respect, especially before and after a match;

6)    Nothing is taken personal if the rules and decorum are maintained;

7)   Should respect and honor be broken we all have been violated and rule breakers will be banned;

8)   Where there are no rules, chaos ensues. Chaos is combat with no rules and we can do that too. There is a fine line between combat (Jutsu) and Kumite. We train for both.

So, like in Kumite so like in politics.  There are a set of pre-agreed rules of decorum and respect.  All are expected be respectful and honorable.  Force is under control and the line not crossed.  Should someone violate this agreement banishment follows.  Chaos is combat with no rules and this can happen too.  We prepare for both but hope for sport Kumite.

Sensei Gary Mendez

Godan, Shorin Ryu Matsumura Seito 

Tai Crane Dojo