Citizenship
Part of the Purpose of Practising Kendo states: The purpose of practicing Kendo is: < snip >
To associate with others with sincerity, And to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself.
This will make one be able: To love his/her country and society,
To contribute to the development of culture,
And to promote peace and prosperity among all peoples.
Why do we display and salute the flags during practice? Why do we practice courtesy
to others? Why are we part of NZKF, KKA, and IKF?
Why else but to continually remind ourselves that we are part of a Way that holds these
things as important parts.
If you refer to the section about Bushido, you will notice that loyalty/duty is a big part
of the Way of the Warrior, and there is no higher duty than that owed to the Emperor and
country. National duty was the highest duty that rose above duty to one's Lord. For any
good citizen, duty to ones country should be an important aspect of ones life. This
includes following the laws of the land, respecting the environment, and respecting the rights
of all peoples in the land. Sadly in todays society, this is lacking in some people and crime,
littering and disrespect is the result.
Everyone should have a desire to learn about different cultures,
and to understand different peoples. Through understanding comes respect and peace. It
is not the sole domain of governments or rulers - it starts with a single person.
Tolerance for other people should be an easy thing. It comes from respect.
This is the basic level of citizenship.
About our Flags
One of the cool things about our club is that with both Korean and New Zealand affiliations
we get to learn about another country. The Koreans are expected to know about the NZ
flag, and the Kiwis must know about the Korean flag. Info here about
the NZ flag,
and here about
the Korean flag,
and here about
the Japanese flag.
