What are the steps I need to take to become a SHARP Grappler, Wrestler, Jiu-Jitsu or Judo player? Let's take a close look at the process of sword making, and see we if there any any connections we can make between the process of constructing a sharp sword and sharp grappler.
When you first start to learn a grappling art(Wrestling, Jiu-Jitsu, Judo...) you're like a rock. However, you're not just any old rock, the cool thing about grappling is that everyone is a chunk of IRON. In the grappling art, everyone has the potential to learn the technique and become stronger regardless of size, age, or strength. These chunks of IRON are about to go through a grueling process of transformation, and with enough time, patience, and discipline, the finished product will cut through anything.
Initially, the iron needs to be melted, and formed into a basic shape. This basic shape is the foundation for the process of heating and pounding to take place. If there are weak spots, air pockets, or unbalanced area's we may find ourselves having to redo the initial process. The initial stage of development may be the most simple, but is the most significant when considering the potential ramifications of a finished product.
The next continuous process involves, heating and pounding. The act of heating the iron so that it may be pounded is very insightful. The heat only lasts a limited time for the maker to pound away. The temperature needs to be just right, and the amount of pressure when pounding can't be too much or too little. There is a constant balance of heat, pressure, and timing. You need to know when you should hit harder, you need to know when things are too hot, and you need to know when enough is enough. It's all about balance!
The final product is the result of a willingness to conform, a strong foundation, and constant pounding, heating, and critiquing. Although there will be variances and minute subtleties between each sword, they all have the power to do some serious damage. Therefore, responsibility once the product has been refined is essential!
Let's not forget to take a look at the hands behind making a SHARP sword. The process of SHARPNESS, doesn't just happen by itself. You need the support of coaches, partners, and family to overcome challenges, adversity, and doubt. However, trusting that those around you will direct you in the right direction and push you to achieve a sharper self is essential. Therefore, a sharp sword needs to be coached by those who understand the difficulties of becoming sharp, and are even willing to bruise their own hands for the sake of polishing that high-quality one of a kind sword!
Eliot Kelly
"The process of becoming SHARP is what we need to embrace!"
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