Entitlement and Privilege

The Honor of Rank

“Your rank is not an entitlement, nor is it a privilege. It is given to you to better serve those above and below you. You are entrusted with this honor because your sensei believes that you can represent your art, your sensei, & your dojo well.”

- Prince Loeffler

Entitlement: the belief that one is inherently deserving of privileges or special treatment

Privilege: a special right, advantage, or immunity granted or available only to a particular person or group

I believe that people of all ranks (martial arts or otherwise) can benefit from the wisdom of this quote. High ranks especially should pay close attention to how this quote not only applies to their role, but also how they can pass the sentiment of the quote on to their students/subordinates. The idea that students are being given a particular rank to better serve others, not just in recognition of their dedication & achievement, is vital to keeping the spirit of true martial arts alive.

Many students have come before you and will begin after you are gone, so what weight does that rank inherently carry? It carries with it a responsibility to be the best you can be for the purpose of representing yourself, your sensei, your dojo, and your art with the utmost respect, honor, and integrity. How well you do this will determine how people treat you as well as how positive of an impact you can have on yourself & the community you are allowed to be a part of.