ruminators' ilk

The Pursuit of Excellence and Willingness to Always be at the Beginning:  THE PARABLE OF THE BLACK BELT

This summer, I have been working on a dressage movement, the half-pass, and having a difficult time of it. The half-pass, when executed correctly, has a beautiful flow.  My movement is choppy.  My dressage "master," although supportive, reminded me that excellent horsemanship takes a life time; there is no limit. He also reminded me that great riders have great humility.  He then shared the parable of the black belt.

I pass the parable along to you:

"The Parable of the Black Belt"

Picture a martial artist kneeling before the master sensei in a ceremony to
receive a hard-earned black belt.  After years of relentless training, the
student has finally reached a pinnacle of achievement in the discipline.

"Before granting the belt, you must pass one more test," says the sensei.

"I am ready," responds the student, expecting perhaps one final round of
sparring.

"You must answer the essential question: What is the true meaning of the
black belt?"

"The end of my journey," says the student. "A well-deserved reward for all
my hard work."

The sensei waits for more. Clearly, he is not satisfied. Finally, the
sensei speaks. "You are not yet ready for the black belt. Return in one
year."

A year later, the student kneels again in front of the sensei.

"What is the true meaning of the black belt?" asks the sensei.

"A symbol of distinction and the highest achievement in our art," says the
student.

The sensei says nothing for many minutes, waiting. Clearly, he is not
satisfied. Finally, he speaks. "You are still not ready for the black belt.
Return in one year."

A year later, the student kneels once again in front of the sensei. And
again the sensei asks: "What is the true meaning of the black belt?"

"The black belt represents the beginning -- the start of a never-ending
journey of discipline, work, and the pursuit of an ever-higher standard,"
says the student.

"Yes. You are now ready to receive the black belt and begin your work."

Until next time!