Thoughts on International & Global Education
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Musings on Japanese and Ryukyu Budo
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Thoughts on International & Global Education
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In the esteemed tradition of Miyamoto Musashi, whose insightful "Go Rin No Sho" has illuminated the path for many warriors, let us explore the intricate journey of mastery within Okinawan budo. Here, I aim to reflect on the essence and the challenges that confront those who embark on this profound journey. In the realm of budo, where discipline and wisdom walk hand in hand, the path to mastery is a journey that goes beyond mere physical combat. It resembles a vessel's voyage across stormy seas, necessitating not just the strength to row but also the wisdom to navigate. Dan grades serve as celestial guides in this journey, signifying not just combat skill but a deep comprehension of the underlying principles that dictate the art. Body mechanics, precise calculations of distance and timing, become the compass and map for a true practitioner's course. However, the vast ocean of budo reveals its depths to those who look beyond combat. The distinguished ranks of Shihan and above are not mere symbols of martial prowess but markers of one’s ability to impart knowledge, to steer others through perilous waters, and to enrich the art’s legacy. Teaching, akin to the art of swordsmanship, demands a delicate equilibrium between strength and finesse, mastering both heart and hand. Within the ranks, there exist individuals who, despite their formidable presence in the dojo, lack the depth and vision budo demands. These practitioners, strong in battle, resemble ships lost in a storm, propelled by their own turmoil and insecurities, locked in endless conflict. They become unwitting participants in the fray, not by choice but by circumstance. On the other hand, some face their greatest challenges not in the storm but in the calm, struggling to ignite the spark of purpose and determination that budo demands, lacking the destructive spirit that defines warriors like Shiva. There is also a group that approaches budo as one would a gentle breeze, without the urgency of the storm or the resolve of the unwavering wind. Despite their dedication, their journey often remains stagnant, floating aimlessly on serene waters. They are the eternal children among us, some bringing joy and others, strife. Budo's path is as varied as its practitioners, demanding not just physical strength but a unity of body, mind, and spirit. It's a quest for enlightenment that stretches beyond the dojo's confines, sculpting the soul itself. The accolades and certificates we collect are mere decorations compared to the true essence of our practice. Thus, let us undertake this journey with humility and determination, ever conscious of its teachings and the personal growth it nurtures. Budo offers not just lessons in combat but in life itself, guiding us through tumult with grace and wisdom. In silent reflection, the dojo reveals budo's true essence, teaching us resilience, strength in adversity, and the humility that follows each fall. This path, rich in ancient wisdom, shows that mastery transcends the physical, influencing every action and decision, much like the ink from a calligrapher's brush requires steadiness and peace. As students of this path, our goal extends beyond mastering techniques to cultivating character. The ranks we achieve and the titles we are given are transient; what endures is the impact of our practice on our character and the legacy we leave. Embracing budo's path leads us on a journey that ventures deep into the spirit, a path laden with challenges but abundant in rewards for the steadfast. Let us walk this path with courage and modesty, keenly aware of its profound lessons and the pinnacle of mastery it offers. For those in higher ranks, remember to allow those under your tutelage the freedom to explore different paths. Budo is not a one-size-fits-all; recognize when to part ways. Maintain humility, refrain from belittling those earnestly seeking the way, and ensure the dojo remains a place free from insecurity of the soul. Ultimately, what we derive from martial arts is our responsibility; teachers can guide, but we must be willing to listen and observe with all our senses. For within every true practitioner burns the unquenchable flame of budo, illuminating the path not just for oneself but for all seekers of 'the way' for the way is ultimately a journey inwards and then a return. Like water it is a going and a coming, yet the beach will be forever changed.
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I find myself at a juncture in life where a significant number of my peers are increasingly involved in supporting their older parents, often emotionally and sometimes financially. However, it's also evident that some of these friends are navigating the challenges of a parent or parents who attempt to manipulate and control their adult child. Below, I offer some insights into how you might begin to tackle this situation. This is based solely on a review of articles on the subject and some guidelines available through online governmental and care bodies. It should not be considered a "solution" but rather a step towards identifying solutions and boundaries.
Recognising the Signs of a Controlling and Narcissistic Older Parent
Understanding and Managing Your Emotions.
Setting Boundaries and Communicating.
Building a Support System.
Prioritising Self-Care.
Navigating Caregiving. 1. Define Care Limits: Determine the level of care you’re able and willing to provide, whether it's direct care, coordinating professional care, or offering financial support. 2. Seek Professional Help for Care Needs: Utilise home health aides, nurses, or residential care facilities to ensure your parent receives necessary care without it falling entirely on you. Managing Expectations and Preparing for the Future. 1. Manage Your Expectations: Accept that your parent's behaviour may not change, and focus on what you can control. 2. Plan for All Outcomes: Prepare for your parent's further ageing and eventual passing, including their end-of-life care wishes. Addressing Guilt and Responsibility. 1. Redefine Responsibility: Understand that caring for your parent doesn’t mean sacrificing your health. Strike a balance that works for you. 2. Address Guilt Constructively: View feelings of guilt as cues to reassess and adjust your boundaries and care strategies. Personal Growth and Reflecting on Legacy. 1. Embrace Personal Growth: Use this experience for personal development, including building resilience and managing complex relationships. 2. Reflect on Your Values and Legacy: Contemplate how your actions align with your values and the legacy you wish to leave. This is not comprehensive plan but rather aims to assist in navigating the caregiving journey for an ageing parent who exhibits controlling and narcissistic behaviours, ensuring both your and their needs are met in a manner that is healthy. Remember no child should be born into indentured servitude! Having collected over 1000 academic articles on the history and sociological aspects of Ryukyu and also its martial arts I thought over the coming year or so I will upload a summary of the articles. I think there is so much good research out there but folks researching into Okinawan budo often do not know about it and vice versa. As someone with a keen interest in big history I believe the contextualising of karate and kobudo within the larger event of their time helps correct so many of the misconceptions which remain in the 'dojo universe'. So on every Friday, just in time for your leisure, I will post a summary of some of the most significant pieces of research out there. First up is a PhD dissertation form 1971 which clearly shows that the Ryukyu Kingdom was a significant player in keeping Japan connected to the outside world during its years of isolation. Moreover, it also help convey more clearly the relationship between the mainland and Okinawa and how it was far, far more complex than the duality of good gu vs bad guy so often portrayed in under researched assertions or works of martial history. Mitsugu Sakihara's dissertation, "The Significance of Ryukyu in Satsuma Finances During the Tokugawa Period," submitted in 1971 to the University of Hawaii for the Doctor of Philosophy degree in History, offers a comprehensive examination of the economic relationship between the Ryukyu Kingdom and the Satsuma Domain from the early 17th century to the advent of the Meiji period. This work delves into the intricacies of tribute taxes, monopoly control of Ryukyuan products by Satsuma, and the vital role of the Ryukyu-China trade, all set against the backdrop of Satsuma's financial reforms in the 1830s. Key Findings and Contributions 1. Economic Misconceptions Clarified: Sakihara challenges prevailing misconceptions about Ryukyu's subjugation and exploitation by Satsuma, particularly in economic terms. He systematically analyzes the nature and impact of tribute taxes, the monopoly on Ryukyuan products, and the bilateral trade between Ryukyu and China. 2. Ryukyu's Economic Contributions to Satsuma: The study underscores Ryukyu's significant economic contributions to Satsuma, especially through trade with China. This trade not only offered substantial profits but also played a crucial role in Satsuma's financial strategies, particularly during the Tempo financial reform period (1830-1848). 3. Tribute-Tax System Evolution: Sakihara provides a detailed account of the evolution of tribute taxes from a minimal beginning in 1611 to a substantial economic burden by the early 18th century. Interestingly, he points out that the actual burden of tribute taxes on Ryukyu decreased over time due to increases in production and efficiency. 4. Monopolistic Exploitation by Satsuma: The dissertation reveals how Satsuma intensified its monopolistic control over Ryukyu's economy, particularly from 1830 onwards, significantly affecting Ryukyu's financial and economic health. This monopolistic control extended to sugar, turmeric, and other local products, as well as the Ryukyu-China trade. 5. Impact of Satsuma's Tempo Reform: Sakihara argues that the financial and economic reforms initiated by Satsuma in the Tempo period were significantly supported by its exploitative economic policies towards Ryukyu. The profits from Ryukyu, especially from trade, were pivotal in Satsuma's recovery from financial distress and its subsequent rise to prominence in the Meiji Restoration. 6. Contribution to Japanese National History: By examining the local dynamics between Satsuma and Ryukyu, Sakihara's work contributes to a broader understanding of the shifts in power dynamics leading to the Meiji Restoration. The study highlights the interconnectedness of regional economies and their influence on national history. Conclusion Sakihara's dissertation not only advances our understanding of the complex economic relationships in pre-modern Japan but also highlights the critical role of Ryukyu in Satsuma's economic strategies leading up to the Meiji Restoration. Through meticulous research and analysis, Sakihara presents a nuanced view of the economic history of Ryukyu and its ties with Satsuma, offering new insights into the transition from feudal Japan to the modern Meiji state. This work is a significant contribution to the field of Japanese economic and political history, illuminating the interconnectedness of regional and national narratives in shaping Japan's historical trajectory. Book Review: Fighting Scholars: Habitus and Ethnographies of Martial Arts and Combat Sports4/4/2024 Discovering the Physical and Academic Worlds Collide: My Thoughts on "Fighting Scholars" As someone deeply passionate about the academic realm and the disciplined world of martial arts, I recently found myself enthralled by a book that intriguingly merges these two spheres. The book in question, "Fighting Scholars: Habitus and Ethnographies of Martial Arts and Combat Sports" by Raúl Sánchez García and Dale C. Spencer, is a groundbreaking exploration into the world of martial arts and combat sports (MACS) through an academic lens. Having my academic roots firmly planted in the theories of Pierre Bourdieu and Loïc Wacquant, stumbling upon a martial arts book that speaks their language was truly eye-opening. The concept of 'carnal sociology' and the Bourdieusian idea of habitus particularly resonate with me, offering a lens that mirrors my way of understanding the social fabric. Through the Eyes of Carnal Sociology "Fighting Scholars" is notably the first collection to bring together empirical studies showcasing the richness of ethnographic research, all the while embedding Wacquant’s concept of ‘carnal sociology’. It arrives at a pivotal moment, aligning with the shift towards a more body-centric understanding in the social sciences and anthropology of sport and physical culture, shining a light on the embodied knowledge within MACS. The editors, García and Spencer, draw considerable inspiration from Wacquant, dedicating this collection to delving into the nuances of habitus in the realm of MACS. The chapters weave through different martial arts, enriching our understanding of practitioners' lived experiences with deep, bodily insights. Exploring the Martial Habitus One chapter that caught my attention was penned by David Brown and George Jennings, who investigate the core traits of a martial habitus in wing chun and taijiquan. This exploration into the shared traits across various MACS piques my interest in how the concept of habitus can broaden our grasp of martial arts' social essence. Moreover, the book spans a multitude of topics, from the tactile experiences of Brazilian jiu-jitsu to the sensory depths of kalarippayattu and capoeira. Brian Hogeeven’s chapter stands out for its focus on the phenomenological, sensory aspects of martial arts practice, informed by Maurice Merleau-Ponty’s theories. Looking Ahead with Curiosity While "Fighting Scholars" is rich with theoretical and empirical insights, it also opens the door for future inquiries. The book, as Wacquant reflects in the epilogue, sets the stage for further explorations into broader corporeal and sensory knowledge domains. This aligns with my keen interest in the interplay between habitus, the societal backdrop, and the settings where martial arts thrive. The discussion around themes such as race, ethnicity, gender, religion, and notably, class, suggests critical avenues for future engagement. These themes invite a deeper examination of how inequality, oppression, and resistance unfold within the MACS landscape. Final Thoughts At its core, "Fighting Scholars" not only enriches martial arts studies but also prompts a deeper contemplation of social action and knowledge's corporeal dimensions. It reaffirms the intricate link between physicality and academia, encouraging a continued exploration into the embodied ways of knowing central to martial arts. This book, with its pioneering stance and insightful analysis, undoubtedly marks a significant stride in the study of MACS, heralding a promising future for this fascinating interdisciplinary field. Produced with help from: OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (4) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com In recent years, Ireland has embarked on a transformative journey, redefining its place on the global stage through strategic engagement and fostering intercultural competencies among its citizens. At the heart of this transformative journey is the ambitious Global Ireland Strategy 2018 – 2025, aimed at doubling Ireland's global footprint through an integrated approach encompassing diplomacy, culture, trade, and education. This strategy underscores a multifaceted commitment to not only enhancing Ireland's international presence but also to ensuring its future success through global engagement and intercultural understanding. Diplomatic Expansion and Cultural Diplomacy. Central to Ireland's global engagement efforts is the significant expansion of its diplomatic network, marked by the opening of new embassies and consulates around the world. This expansion not only facilitates greater diplomatic and economic ties but also serves as a vibrant platform for promoting Irish culture and values globally. The establishment of 22 new missions, including embassies and consulates, since the strategy's inception reflects Ireland's proactive approach to strengthening its international influence and enhancing its ability to engage in global dialogues on pressing issues. Complementing this diplomatic outreach is Ireland's focus on cultural diplomacy. Through initiatives such as the establishment of new Irish Arts Centers and the promotion of the Irish language and culture abroad, Ireland aims to deepen its cultural impact worldwide. These efforts are instrumental in fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of Irish heritage, reinforcing Ireland's commitment to sharing its rich cultural legacy with the global community. Educational Initiatives and Intercultural Competencies. Recognizing the importance of education in global engagement, Ireland has also prioritized the development of intercultural competencies among its citizens. Institutions like University College Dublin (UCD) have taken significant strides in integrating global experiences into their educational offerings. UCD's Global Engagement Strategy 2021-2024 exemplifies this focus, aiming to enrich the university community with a deep understanding of global issues through an inclusive, multicultural environment. By promoting global skills and competencies, these educational initiatives prepare Irish citizens to navigate and contribute effectively to an interconnected world. .Addressing Global Challenges. Ireland's global strategy extends beyond diplomacy and education, engaging proactively with global challenges such as climate change, peace, and security. The country's commitment to advancing its foreign policy objectives, including international development and peacekeeping, underscores its role as a responsible global actor. Ireland's increased involvement in international organizations, evidenced by its election to the UN Security Council and active participation in global climate initiatives, demonstrates its dedication to contributing positively to international dialogues and solutions. Leveraging the Global Diaspora. An essential component of Ireland's global strategy is its engagement with the Irish diaspora. With an estimated 70 million people of Irish descent worldwide, the diaspora represents a significant asset in Ireland's global outreach efforts. Through initiatives aimed at engaging with these communities, Ireland seeks to build stronger cultural and economic bridges, leveraging the global Irish network to enhance its international presence and foster mutual understanding. Future Directions and Challenges. As Ireland moves forward, the challenges posed by an ever-changing global landscape require continuous adaptation and innovation. The Global Ireland Strategy's ambitious objectives for the coming years, including the expansion of diplomatic missions, the promotion of Irish culture and education, and the engagement with global issues, set a clear path for Ireland's future international engagement. However, achieving these objectives will necessitate sustained commitment and collaboration across all sectors of Irish society. In conclusion, Ireland's future success on the global stage will be shaped by its ability to engage with global perspectives while ensuring its citizens develop the intercultural competencies necessary to navigate the complexities of the 21st century. Through strategic diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, educational initiatives, and a proactive approach to addressing global challenges, Ireland is positioning itself as a dynamic and influential global actor. The Global Ireland Strategy serves as a blueprint for this ambitious endeavor, aiming to enhance Ireland's international stature while equipping its citizens with the skills needed to thrive in a globalized world. As Ireland continues to expand its global footprint, the integration of global engagement and intercultural understanding into the fabric of Irish society will remain essential to the nation's prosperity and influence on the world stage. |
James M. HatchInternational Educator who happens to be passionate about Chito Ryu Karate. Born in Ireland, educated in Canada, matured in Japan Archives
April 2024
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