There’s a clear line between those who “pretend to work” and those who “do the work.
Are You Wearing a Costume or Truly Living the Life?
As Halloween approaches, costumes and disguises are on everyone’s mind. The season is all about stepping into characters, embracing alternate identities, and letting imagination run wild. Yet, for those in the martial arts community, this Halloween raises an intriguing question: Are you only dressing up as a martial artist, or are you genuinely living the path?
Faking it is Easy but NOT Sustainable
It’s easy to wear the costume—put on the uniform, strike a pose, speak the language of discipline and focus. But martial arts is more than just appearance; it’s a way of life, requiring dedication, humility, and constant self-improvement. There’s a clear line between those who “pretend to work” and those who “do the work.” The former may go through the motions, focusing on the outward appearance and social recognition of being a martial artist. The latter, however, are committed to the journey, training tirelessly, and internalizing the values that martial arts demand.
For true martial artists, there is no costume.
When the Mask is Removed
Halloween is a temporary experience; we put on a mask, walk through the world as something or someone else, and then take it off. Martial arts can sometimes reveal the same phenomenon. Some wear the “mask” of a martial artist—donning the uniform and belt without embodying the mindset and values. For true martial artists, there is no costume. They show up, on and off the mat, in every aspect of life, reflecting the discipline, resilience, and respect that martial arts has instilled in them. Those that don’t, well they are the embodiment of that part of our culture that wants the title without the work.
True martial arts go beyond appearance, demanding values, discipline, and constant self-improvement.
As Halloween approaches and the costumes go on, it’s an ideal time to look inward. When the masks and disguises are eventually removed, what will you see? Will it be the reflection of someone genuinely committed to the journey? Or will there be the realization that it was only an illusion?
The Truth Always Finds You Out
True martial artists, those who do the work and live by the principles, will recognize themselves even without the outward appearance. The discipline, perseverance, and dedication are not temporary—they’re a part of who they are. For them, Halloween serves as a reminder, not a reality check. But for others, this season might bring about an awakening. When the costume is removed, they’ll see who they truly are.
So, this Halloween, ask yourself: are you wearing a costume or living the life?
For those who merely pose, Halloween brings an unsettling truth: wearing a uniform and mimicking the stance don’t make you a martial artist. True martial arts go beyond appearance, demanding values, discipline, and constant self-improvement. While some only seek the image, the genuine practitioners don’t need a costume; their dedication is evident in every step they take, on and off the mat. So as costumes go on and come off, ask yourself: when the mask is removed, what will remain? Will you see someone who’s put in the work, or an empty illusion? Only those who genuinely walk the path can answer with pride.
Do not try to use what you learn in martial arts to just be a better martial artist. Use it to better who you already are.
With respect and dedication,
Sifu
