On September 2nd, the 8th Global Chinese Traditional Martial Arts Championship hosted by NTD culminated successfully. Chairman of the judging panel, Li Youfu, expressed appreciation for participants from around the world, acknowledging that some may have modern influences in their martial arts or have recently embarked on the path of traditional martial arts. Despite this, the judges aimed to encourage all participants to the best of their ability. For those who did not secure a placement, Li Youfu also extended congratulations, emphasizing that showcasing martial arts through participation is a point of honor in itself.
Following the announcement of the finalists the day before, Li Youfu engaged with the contestants, sharing personal stories of his own martial arts journey and competition experiences. He earnestly advised them, “Do not focus solely on rankings; sometimes setbacks can lead to great opportunities.”
Having once been a champion in Chinese martial arts and participating in numerous competitions during his youth, Li Youfu recalled a particular competition where he was initially positioned to enter the finals as the top contender, only to be replaced by someone through backdoor dealings. Initially disgruntled by the lack of fairness, he questioned the purpose of his martial arts practice.
This incident sparked introspection within him, prompting the fundamental question, “What am I practicing martial arts for? Is it solely for the title of champion?”
Embracing a deep-rooted foundation in traditional Chinese culture from his mentor, Li Youfu delved into ancient texts in search of answers. He discovered that the ancient masters of martial arts, particularly those of internal styles, refrained from competitions and seeking fame, as their ultimate aim in martial arts was the cultivation of a higher state of being.
“From that moment on, I told myself: I also strive to attain enlightenment. Thus, I ceased to participate in competitions,” Li Youfu remarked. The setback he faced back then served as a pivotal awakening, propelling him towards learning from the ancients and embarking on the path of spiritual cultivation.
Approximately a decade later, Li Youfu found the profound practice of cultivating one’s spirit through Falun Dafa, embarking on the journey of returning to one’s true self.
Reflecting on this journey, Li Youfu remarked, “Looking back, not being selected for the finals was a blessing in disguise for me.” Sharing his personal anecdote, he sought to convey a valuable lesson: placing significance on rankings may overlook the potential hidden blessings within apparent setbacks.
“I have participated in several competitions, and through each experience, I found that the greatest reward is personal growth and refinement. Adapting to the environment, maintaining calm during competitions, enhancing both mental and physical resilience – these are the invaluable lessons I cherish,” Li Youfu emphasized. “This is the true essence of self-improvement.”
Therefore, rankings hold secondary importance; consistent participation in NTD competitions allows contestants to elevate themselves through preparation, whether in skill development or the cultivation of character, highlighting the advancement of martial virtue.
Li Youfu once stated that “the grace of martial arts is manifested through martial virtue,” elucidating that virtue begets wisdom.
“The practitioners of ancient times held steadfast to their faith and morality, unattached to fame and fortune, rigorous in selecting disciples — their high moral standards invariably reflected the excellence of their martial skills,” Li Youfu elucidated. “Reviving traditional martial arts emphasizes detachment from fame and fortune as an essential element of martial virtue.”
With martial virtue comes the potential for esteemed individuals to impart their profound wisdom upon disciples, as Chinese martial arts have been passed down through generations in this unique manner since ancient times.
“In those days, people lived simply and nobly, upholding high moral standards. Among them, there were practitioners who excelled in martial arts. Amidst mountains and rivers, by the azure waters, encountering extraordinary beings, gaining spiritual insights, transcending the physical and spiritual, merging into the path of Dao, achieving extraordinary feats, crafting martial styles, elevating swordsmanship, and fostering swordsmen,” Li Youfu contemplated.
At times, the master would discreetly transmit their wisdom to chosen disciples of exceptional moral character, cautioning against lightly sharing their teachings without moral grounding.
Therefore, as a final advice to the participants, Li Youfu reiterated, “Winning or losing is not the primary focus; the key is to maintain a centered heart. If we remain unperturbed by success or failure, with equanimity, every encounter can be a great opportunity.”
In conclusion, Li Youfu expressed gratitude to all participants for their involvement in the NTD competition, emphasizing that the revitalization of traditional martial arts is not solely the responsibility of a few individuals. He stated, “In comparison to this endeavor, all that I have mentioned earlier pales in significance; your participation in this cause is paramount.”