Reflecting on the current state of martial arts, it's disheartening to witness the emergence of a "thug" mentality among some young athletes. The sight of them pounding their chests and projecting a tough facade before fights and matches is disconcerting. Respect seems to have taken a back seat, as disrespect towards opponents both before and after competitions has become an unfortunate trend, even among adults and, alarmingly, kids. In this era, the traditional values of "martial etiquette and discipline" are fading away, leaving a void where true martial artists should stand. It's important to remember that being an elite athlete doesn't preclude one from embodying the spirit of a martial artist. The path to mastery should be paved with respect, humility, and a commitment to honor the art itself. Another deeply concerning issue is the behavior of coaches in the present day. The coaches of today are also contributing to this negative shift by setting a poor example themselves. Yelling obscenities from chairs or corners, displaying a lack of composure and sportsmanship, further erodes the sanctity of the martial arts arena. The mentorship and guidance provided by coaches play a pivotal role in shaping athletes' character, and the disregard for decorum sends a conflicting message. Moreover, the prevalence of posturing on social media continues to be a troubling trend, especially among athletes, particularly those in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), who frequently flash the middle finger salute in photos and posts. This behavior contradicts the teachings of past generations, where master teachers would have swiftly corrected any displays of foolishness. As someone who has been involved in martial arts for four decades, it's clear that there's a stark difference between the ethos of the past and the behavior of some present-day practitioners. Let us remember the wisdom of our master teachers and the principles they instilled in us. It's not about just winning a match or gaining fame; it's about embodying the virtues of a true martial artist both inside and outside the arena. It's time for a collective effort to revive respect, humility, and martial discipline in the world of martial arts. By bridging the gap between generations and restoring the noble spirit of martial arts, we can create an environment that fosters personal growth, camaraderie, and the pursuit of excellence – values that should always be at the heart of this ancient and honorable tradition.
