By Scott Hilderbrand
It is important to note that when one does develop
new methods, theories, concepts or ideas there may be
others elsewhere having similar findings, or may even
seek to claim ownership of them. In some cases it is
apparent that an individual published an idea widely
enough to be recognized as the originator. However,
there is a difference in that ones own self-discovery
cannot be based on someone else saying, "I already
did that!"
You see, if you have never seen, heard or been exposed
to the particular methods, or ideas you are working
on and developing prior to this encounter of "I
already did that!" then we must conclude that individual
self discovery has taken place through independent study,
research, analysis and innovative application.
The fact that more than one person can come to the
same conclusion, or discovery independently is nothing
new. History is filled with examples of this occurring.
The one who makes it more widely known first however
is hailed as the originator, although others may have
developed the same thoughts. I must conclude that by
independent and innovative self discovery that all these
individuals are simply on the same path of knowledge.
A person that has come to a conclusion without outside
exposure to the same ideas can say that their ideas
are theirs, and not simply a reflection of another.
This is helpful in keeping people motivated to continue
the growth process and stay on the right path of knowledge
no matter who is sharing it.
I must state at this time that regardless at how I
have arrived at my ideas, none of them would have been
possible if not for the spark and motivation planted
by Mr. Parker, and the system of American Kenpo that
he originated.
Mr. Parker often spoke of American Kenpo as if it were
a third person, a separate entity that we are all passing
through during our journey of self discovery and life.
He told me once, "Scott, words are power. If you
want to master something… give it a name."
Here in lies what I feel was one of Mr. Parker’s
gifts. He discovered, and gave names to the fundamental
principles of motion, and in so doing developed some
of the most innovative methods of transferring knowledge
ever. The result being the most explosive, and devastatingly
effective martial arts system of our time. We can learn
a lesson from this truly great teacher and pioneer.
I am very fortunate to have known Mr. Parker, but above
all the lessons he taught me, the greatest was to instill
in me a foundation of logical thinking and the permission
to innovate on the principles I learned, and it is for
this reason I study with Mr. Mills. I feel he reflects
my own beliefs in training, teaching and continually
reevaluating & refining on the truths that Mr. Parker
shared, and has done with the art precisely as Mr. Parker
wished… to continue to keep it "a living art…"
"A true martial artist is not one who fears
change, but one who causes it to happen… To live
is to change, and to obtain perfection is to change
often."
-Ed Parker The Zen of Kenpo
Back to articles
|
