“I know Kung Fu”, said Neo (The Matrix). Wouldn’t it be great if we could just “jack-in” and upload knowledge directly into our brains? Is it upload or download? I don’t know. But, a four-year degree is completed in an hour with no effort. Martial Artist, Yogi, or pianist. Just sit back and relax. Hmm.
The technology for jacking-in like Neo doesn’t exist yet. Or … does it? I can’t keep the timeline right. In the meantime, here are five easy steps to becoming a Kung Fu master:
Step 1: Don’t train in Kung Fu. It takes way too long. Lots of work too and you could get hurt.
Step 2: Watch Ip Man I and II. Three sucked. And, maybe some Kung Fu YouTube videos. It’s pretty much the same as earning a black belt.
Step 3: Do some calisthenics and stretching at least once a week. Not a requirement. Just a suggestion.
Step 4: Subscribe to Kung Fu magazine to make sure you’re aware of the most up to date way to do a front kick. It’s always changing.
Step 5: Buy a black belt online. Now you’re official. And don’t forget to put that Kung Fu sticker on your car window, so everyone knows.
Congratulations!
Neo was right. He did know Kung Fu. But, knowing isn’t being. Being takes more than just knowledge.
It takes hard work and time. Actually, that’s the literal translation of Kung Fu. It takes heart and soul. It’s passion, belief, diligence, perseverance, feel, discipline, practice, and immersion. We must embrace the philosophy and approach. It has to be in us if we’re to effectively employ it outwardly.
‘Ever hear a really good blues guitarist do his thing? Yeah, it’s like that.
The knowing of Kung Fu is not Kung Fu. We must be it.
Photo by Charlein Gracia on Unsplash
I Am No Yogi 