Rogue

Rick Faye, my kali instructor in Minneapolis, has an interesting view of the arts.In a newsletter he wrote that at the origin of every 'traditional' martial art was a creative individual, a rogue - someone usually outside the tradition - who was different from his contemporaries. Unorthodox and effective, he did what worked. What was communicated in the teachings of these individuals was basically the techniques of their art. These techniques were handed down and a 'traditional' martial art was established. Sincere exploration is not supported in 'traditional' classes, but rather obedience to the 'style'. Yet this is precisely what the founder undoubtedly broke away from.

(Ron Sieh)