A parable(寓言)tells about a martial artist who kneels (跪) before a master in a ceremony to receive the Black Belt, which is hard to earn. After years of 1 , the student has finally reached a height of achievement
in the discipline.
"Before gaining the belt, you must 2 one more test," the coach seriously tells the young man.
"I'm ready," responds the student, 3 perhaps one more round of boxing.
"You must answer the 4 question: what is the true meaning of the Black Belt?"
"Why, the end of my journey," says the student. "A well-deserved 5 for my hard work."
The master waits for more. 6 , he is not satisfied. The coach finally speaks, "You are not ready for the
Black Belt. 7 in one year."
As the student 8 before his master a year later, he is again asked the question, "What is the true 9 of
the Black Belt?"
"It is a symbol of honor and the highest achievement in our art." The young man responds.
Again the master waits for more. Still 10 , he says once more, "You are not ready for the Black Belt.
Return in one year."
A year later the student kneels before his coach and 11 the question, "What is the true meaning of the
Black Belt?"
This time he answers, "The Black Belt 12 not the end, but the beginning, the 13 of a never-ending
journey of discipline, work and the pursuit of an ever higher standard."
"Yes," says the master. "You are now ready to 14 the Black Belt and begin your work."
You may not be 15 for a Black Belt, but you might be at an important point. Maybe you're facing a life
change, perhaps even a 16 one. Or maybe you are waiting for something you have worked hard to
achieve-graduation, a new job, a 17 , or even retirement.
All wise people see that 18 can be new beginnings. Change need not be feared. And neither should
we be looking for a 19 resting place, for a full and happy life is always active.
Does the change you face represent, not just an ending, but a new beginning in your life's 20 ? If so,
you may be ready to move forward. |