Are you a warrior or is it a hobby?

I really like this question. It puts life in perspective. There is no shame in being either mind you, I just think you need to know which one you are. I have been both in my life. What is the difference in my mind you might ask? A hobbyist "goes" to or "does" karate, jiu jitsu, judo, etc a couple nights a week along with fitting in bowling or golf. It is exercise. It is social. It is belts and cool gi's long enough to "earn" what you want and move on. You do not think about it between classes, or if you do it is only to remind yourself that you "have" to go again on Tuesday.

A warrior lives his training, he does not "go to" it. It is part of his very blood, it is his breath. He understands that he cannot possibly think that he's learned it all. He knows there is more than "one way to fight" and spends his life to master stand-up, clinch, ground and weapons. Each with its own flow and vibe. He does not exchange it for an extra night of bowling or beers at the pub. You will never hear him say "mine is the best ever." He accepts no substitute in his life. He understand his responsibility to shepherd his calling and pass it on to the next committed generation. It has no end, no completion. It is life.

Choose your position, but do it with an informed heart and mind. There can be no "UFC couch champions" here. If it is not your calling, find one that is and commit. Life is a journey for the committed.