Wu Shen Pai Jiu Mei

Rén 仁

HUMANITY

Humans must understand the way of humanity in order to maximize our human potential.  We must understand the qualities which distinguish us from other living creatures.  That is the essence of our being and our connection to the natural order of the universe.  Almost all religions and moral philosophies have professed the following tenets concerning the "Way" that humans should live: Be good, be selfless, be courteous, be just, be obedient, be respectful, be loving, be trusting, be virtuous, be wise, be responsible, show filial piety, cooperate, and be compassionate.  An understanding of, and following of, these moral traits is necessary for human society to be harmonious.  The martial artist must deeply understand these principles because as well as being a part of human society, he or she is also a part of the identity of their particular martial art.  True courage and strength is necessary for the practitioner to dedicate themselves to the welfare of their martial art.  Humans are not isolated.  We need each other, and in return, we must give service to our community, our art, and ultimately…humanity.  We choose to give our service to our art and our Sifu, our Sigung, our Sijo.  We do this not only for the future of our art, but also for the benefit of the future generations of practitioners.  All things are governed by natural laws, rules, or procedures. In order to create harmony and order, we must give attention to the rank and title of the members in our art who have contributed to our discipline through their years of devotion.  Harmony is achieved through understanding our weaknesses and strengths, our likes and dislikes, and understanding how we as the "self" can better the "whole" of our art and our society.  Then, one must create structure and order in our life to fulfill these goals which we identify with unswerving moral rectitude.   First, we as individuals must seek harmony within the "self" before we do anything.  Then, we as individuals must apply the same methods of self-discovery to the community.  In the process of doing this, we come to understand our individual connection to the natural order of life.  Wisdom is gained much later in our lives, after much experience, hardships, and heartbreaks. This is why it is so important to have good teachers in our lives.  Those who understand the ancient wisdom, the value of tradition, the need for change for growth, and most importantly, those who possess a vision for the future are the True Sifus of tomorrow.  These teachers are the ones who will guide us on the proper path and either expedite our growth to reach our full potential or forever trap us in a futile existence.  In a true Martial Art such as Wu Shen Pai, this growth is accomplished through increased levels of skill, ability, and knowledge.  We also increase in rank and responsibility as we grow in the art.  Rank and title should not be used as a means to suppress growth, but it is a means of fulfillment.  By fulfilling the tasks, requirements, and challenges of each rank, one comes to understand and value their position as well as the position of others within our Martial Way.  Without challenges, trials, and hardships, one cannot grow.  Moreover, it is through this process of growing into maturity that a person can come to appreciate his/her own responsibilities and thus gain a greater sense of our own humanity.  Our ranks and titles reflect the position we have as members of the Kung Fu family of Wu Shen Pai, within the Wu Shen Pai community, as well as within our society.  The greater our position, the greater our responsibility to others in our system, our community and to humanity as a whole. 

Of course, one can be a self-proclaimed teacher, champion, or even a prophet.  No true title can be self-proclaimed. Even though, a person starts a company and makes him/herself president, such title will only gain value by the work he/she accomplishes.  True titles are gained, earned, and/or presented. Some modern systems of martial arts have disbanded the ranking system entirely.  This cannot be seen as a martial art and should be given a new classification, such as a martial sport. However, even in sports you have different levels, depending on skill and performance.  Hence, it is hard to escape ranking because it is the way to keep order and without order, there can only be chaos.  Respect and be proud of your ranks and titles, if you have sacrificed to earn them. The value of each rank or title is determined by your own actions.  However, it is important to note that just holding or having rank means nothing, if you do not act accordingly.  Your life and your humanity should reflect your position in the art of Wu Shen Pai.  Stay true to the rank you earned and what was given to you by your founder or Professor.  Do not deny true ranks and titles.  False ranks and titles are a dishonor to us all, to the memory of what was, and brings shame to the way of the Martial Arts and its community.  The rankings held in the Martial Way of Wu Shen Pai are a result of hard work, dedication, honor, discipline, commitment, loyalty, and discipline.  As such, they reflect nothing but honor, dignity, and worthiness on those who hold them.  Our Wu Shen Pai certificates say it best:  May you forever uphold and carry on the ancient, honorable, and unbroken lineage of the true and original founders of Wu Shen Pai Chu’an Fa Gung Fu.  Honor your rank, and guard well your heritage and those to whom you pass it on.  Any dishonor to this Society and Association, to your rank, to the leadership of this organization, or to your fellow Black Belts will result in the immediate revocation of rank and honor.  Following the authentic path of Wu Shen Pai, you will use your knowledge and skills only for the purposes of true and pure self defense, and never for purposes of aggression.

The True Sifu will always guide his students firmly, but gently along the Path of the Way.  Showing their true humanity in the process.  The True Sifu’s humanity arises from their concern for their fellow man, their own Sifu, and their fellow students. They will communicate the knowledge that their students need, when they need it, along the Way!