the true sifu
 
The relationship of the Sifu to the training hall is very difficult to define, as it encompasses many varying aspects of life. The Sifu must flow through the student in many levels of communication and reach to the far corners of his life. The Sifu is a father and at times a mother, an advisor and a chastiser. The Sifu though different, is the same as everyone else. He is human and deserves respect, for he has traveled long upon the Way. 
 The Sifu is a good teacher. By this, it is meant that he can convey the appropriate knowledge to his students at the correct time and in the best manner. He must be able to see them and their problems as they seldom can: impartially. The Sifu shows no favor. As progression is attained he becomes harder on those who progress. He is kind but firm to the beginners on the path. 
 He advises in an appropriate manner on the inner spiritual aspects of the art. He always has a friendly ear to listen, but is not outwardly moved. Many people are unable to see the Sifu properly. They tend to see him as a teacher or as a friend. He is neither. He is both. He is more. He sees a student in a free way, unmoved by the external face or appearance, and helps in the best way. If he has to be hard, he is so. If he has to be soft, he is so. His attitudes are in the best interests of the student. 
Often the Sifu may test his students by taking views diametrically opposed to theirs and watch their reaction. He will seldom openly praise. In the Martial Arts, silence is the best praise. He will note what affects the student in and out of the training hall, how he acts towards his friends, family, fellow students, and act accordingly. He will say nothing when he should speak. He is kind and understanding. He can be hard. He can be compassionate. Through all these externals, his heart is forever with his students. He listens when they speak and understands their feelings. He is unmoved but can move charitably if necessary. 
 He is active in a subdued way. He gives while others take, and asks no reward. He is sad. He is happy. He is let down. He is uplifted. He holds to the Way, for that Way is him. Many students may change, the Sifu does not, he or she can adapt at will. He may be abused, but thAnks in return. When blamed or criticized, he persists. He persists when there is no reason to, and that is why he is a Sifu. 
 On the average it takes 2,000 students to produce one True Sifu. If you have one, take good care of him...