Master in Waiting

Today it seems like everyone is a master of something. In this constant changing world this term is used more and more. It seems as though the criteria of what constitutes a master are getting smaller and the master population is growing larger. Though this may allow people the chance to train with a knowledgeable practitioner of a variety of arts, it has become a means by which people limit their own training and growth. People hear the term master and they are rushed with a stream of thoughts and beliefs; to be a master one must dedicate their life to a single goal, a single task. One must endure a life of hardships and sacrifice. One must give up all worldly possessions and live in poverty. One must be better than the rest – well maybe not that extreme but you get the idea. Being a master does involve a part of each of those mentioned above. But the true ingredient is dedication.

The question was asked – “What is the price of Mastery?” There are many answers that can be given and not all involve money. The bottom line is that we need to give of ourselves to achieve – simply put we must be dedicated for it to happen. It could take years; it could take months – regardless, we need to be completely dedicated – mind, body and soul. There is no real measure as to when one achieves mastership. How can there be? And does one truly ever achieve complete mastery? Who are we to say? But continuous working and striving to the higher levels is what sets those apart from the rest. We are all capable of this – we are masters in waiting. The choice is ours from day one. What are we going to do with the information we are given? How will we choose to use it? Do we treat it like another of life’s activities or distractions? Or do we make it part of who we are and how we live and choose to be? Master is but a word – often used in places and with people who do not deserve it. But what master means and what it holds for those reaching for it goes far beyond a piece of paper or belief of another.

Look inside and see what lies there. You may be surprised to find a master in waiting.

Michael Aloia is an aikido instructor and personal trainer at Asahi Schools of Aikido in Collegeville, PA with over 20 years experience. More information can be found at www.asahidojo.com. Michael can be reached at newsletter@asahidojo.com or 610-489-6281.