We all go through many changes in our martial arts development between novice and instructor levels. Similarly, we all go through many changes from the time we are young children until we reach adulthood. Even after reaching physical maturity, it is hopeful that we will all aspire to higher levels of character and virtue throughout our lives. This is the higher goal in martial arts. It is significantly more important than the fighting.
Some people actively pursue becoming better people.
Others never learn from their mistakes and are therefore doomed to repeat them. The martial arts need to be utilized as more than a means of fighting to realize their full benefit. They should be utilized to enhance the overall quality ones life. Let's say that you have trained diligently for years. One day, you are attacked on the street.