I believe that each person around whom we spend a large amount of time influences our perceptions in some way. Certainly there is a "group mentality" that is fostered in any class although all good ones promote individuality as well.
When I was a child I was actively disliked by those who raised me. Twenty years of that shaped my perception of myself into something I work daily to disbelieve. Much of my time as a child was therefore spent alone so I became acutely aware of what is going on in my inner thoughts.
My primary positive influence prior to martial arts was, believe it or not, comic books. I was drawn to those heroes who stood firmly on their principles despite great odds. When many children from bad homes turn to drugs and crime, I instead was sustained by the belief that I could be more if I only persevered and held to honorable actions.
Thus, when I had the opportunity to learn martial arts at the age of 15 I found a "society" that encouraged the same beliefs. My sensei was an adult example of the person I was trying to become. Therefore, his class suited me well.
He had told me upon one occasion that I was the best student he'd ever had. Was that because I was already like him, because I fit well within his own system, or did I have something intrinsic that made me predispositioned for martial arts (at least as he perceived it)?
So, after about 10 years in his system I relocated for grad school and (with no local schools in my style) began a new style. This instructor has amazing techniques but his approach to the philosophy of martial arts is much different. He takes a "get them before they get you" approach that is has little problem with an aggression and pain.
I did not agree with his philosophy (and still don't) but his techniques were so impressive that I stayed at the school. He welcomed me in and in short time I was a steadfast member of the class.
I have been well respected there throughout my 12 years of training with him. I have never waivered on my personal philosophy nor approach to martial arts. Some students in the class have had views similar to mine, many closer to his. I have seen many students come and go in both systems. I hold one of the highest ranks in the second style and am still viewed as a welcome addition to its roster.
My second sensei told me on a few occasions that I am one of the finest students he has trained in 40 years and hopes that I will continue a school for him, maybe even be the representative for the entire organization, after his passing. Giving myself the benefit of the doubt based on his words, it seems to me that one can indeed rise high and succeed in a group even if that person's philosophy is quite different from the majority and its leader.
I think that martial arts is different than most other closed organizations because of the powerful tenets of individuality and respect upon which the Art is built. The military rewards those who follow orders the best and achieve the results of the entire collective. Sports like football are the same. If you can't adapt to the collective's mentality then you don't belong and don't succeed.
But the Art is by its very nature created to reward those who set and achieve their own goals guided by the structure of the group. Therefore, I believe that one can succeed in any martial arts organization and "fit it" as long as the individuals within that group respect each other as they should.
