Читать книгу Tales of Okinawa's Great Masters онлайн

9 страница из 66

In this book, Master Nagamine presents the combat legacy of our people: the legend of Okinawa’s bushi (warriors). Included in his presentation are Matsumura of Shuri, Matsumora of Tomari, Motobu Saru, and Kyan Chotoku, among others, all famous bujin (martial artists). After I read the manuscript once, I felt that this was the first book about karate that was both illuminating and easy to understand.

I was impressed that Nagamine Sensei did not introduce karate in a mysterious way, as if it was an obscure or “all-mighty” phenomenon. Rather, the art has been presented by a person who knows karate very well, a person who truly understands the real meaning of the discipline and its authentic waza (technique). Mysterious stories about karate sometimes confuse the actual purpose of the art. I can understand and accept the reason behind them, as they serve to spark interest in young boys. However, each reader or listener should interpret the message in his own way.

Stories about courageous warriors have always provided young boys with dreams about becoming strong and moral. Since karate-do is native to our island, it provides a sense of patriotism and regard for one’s heritage and community. I too, remember as an elementary student reading a story which left a remarkable impression on me. So too, I believe, will Nagamine Shoshin’s impressive publication greatly influence the young people of this generation.