Many martial arts teachers and instructors in America like to set themselves up as if they are an infallible source of knowledge and truth.  Some may tell their students that their way is the only way.  They are looking for sheep-like followers instead of sincere students.  Beginning students should be careful in their choice of a teacher.  This choice will affect them and their lives more than they initially realize.

     In the Kalama Sutra, the Buddha spoke on the concept of how one should accept teachings.  Here is an excerpt from that sutra that has been translated into the English language:

     So the martial arts teacher with Buddhist roots will not require his students to blindly follow his teachings or authority.  He will teach, inspire, and lead his students to their own awakening.  There is no path that is right or wrong for everyone.  Each person has to find the truth for himself.   A good teacher is simply a guide along the way.  In the beginning he will be stern, but loving, for students can be like little children as they first need to cultivate a disciplined mind.  As they advance, he will challenge them to exceed their self-imposed limitations physically, mentally, and spiritually.  In the end, he will simply watch as they express their understanding of his truth that he has shared with them.

     How do you know if his students have accepted his teachings?  You probably won’t know during the teacher’s lifetime.  But after he is gone, look closely at his students.  Observe them and the lives they lead.  They are his reflection.  Have they accepted the truth in his teachings but rejected his personality?  What is their level of understanding, energy, and awareness?  How do they live their daily lives?  How do they positively affect others?  By looking at his students, you will be able to see not only a reflection of the teacher but the efficiency of his teachings.

     Did you find yourself agreeing with that last line?  Did you accept it as truth?  Be careful.  Was it because I used an ancient Buddhist scripture to bolster my statement?  Was it because I stated it with authority and conviction?  Or was it because you personally tested the axiom and found it to be true?  Remember as with all teachings, don't believe the sutra or the word of a teacher.  Find out for yourself, after proper investgation, what is true and what is not.  This is an essential teaching of Buddhism.  Or is it not?