Sweeping the Dojo
Sweeping the temple outside of Chiya Yi City, Taiwan
"You can buy an hour of Teaching. But Interest is much more expensive, and must be exchanged for in kind."
— Shifu Jennifer
Yuki-San visited our Dojo, and being the perfect guest, he arrived early to help set up, then stayed late to sweep up the tatami. That evening, Master made an announcement about some needed maintenance. As the rest of us were leaving, Yuki remained behind. When I asked why, he said he was taking a look at the work required, in preparation for tackling it in the morning.
I was surprised, and said so! "You're our guest. We'll take care of it..." He replied, "Master pointed out a problem, and it is our job as students to see that such things are resolved without being asked. Yes, we pay for lessons, but the privilege of making the dojo a "place of living responsibility" lies with us. Because I am your guest, there is more reason for me to demonstrate my commitment."
As Yuki left the following month for home, it was revealed that he was an advanced master in his home dojo. Neither the white belt he wore as our guest nor his humble demeanor gave away his rank. His stature however, was demonstrated by his commitment to sweeping up every night.
