Notes from The Workshop
Essays, Insights & Reflections on the Art & Practice of Authentic Okinawan Karate & Kobujutsu
012 — The Okinawan Spirit of Not Losing, Part 2: Matsumura Sōkon and the Bull
Among the many stories told about Matsumura Sōkon, one legend stands out—a royal command to face a charging bull. He could have fought. He could have tried to win. Instead, he chose a different path. This article explores Matsumura’s life, this famous story, and how it embodies the Okinawan martial ideal of “not losing”—preserving life, dignity, and spirit above all.
011 — The Okinawan Spirit of Not Losing, Part 1: An Introduction
In Authentic Okinawan Karate, the goal was never to win—but to avoid defeat in every sense: physically, morally, and socially. This article, the first in a series, delves into the deeper cultural philosophy behind “not losing,” a quiet strength grounded in restraint, survival, and dignity. It sets the stage for stories of Okinawan masters who lived this principle not in theory, but in action.
010 — Rethinking ‘Ura Kata’: A Rebuttal in Defense of Authentic Karate
Is kata in Karate a collection of mistakes—or a proven method of self-defense? A recent article argues that kata is not a record of effective technique, but a catalog of flaws to be exploited—a notion it calls “Ura Kata.” While the idea is provocative, it misunderstands the nature and purpose of Authentic Karate. This response defends kata as a living, dynamic curriculum—imperfect, yes, but profoundly practical and enduring. The problem isn’t with kata—it’s with how it’s been misunderstood and misapplied.
009 — Paper Tigers: Distinguishing Substance from Shams
A black belt can represent years of discipline, effort, and training—or not. The difference lies in the journey. In authentic karate, there are no shortcuts. No titles, just training.
008 — Beneath the Belt: Karate and the Meaning of Rank
Belts and ranks are everywhere in modern karate—but where did they come from, and what do they really mean? In this article I explore the surprising origins of the ranking system, its benefits and pitfalls, and why true progress in karate is measured not by what’s around your waist—but by who you become.
“No matter how you may excel in the art of Te, and in your scholastic endeavors, nothing is more important than your behavior and your humanity as observed in daily life.”
— Tei Junsoku (1663-1734)