The Unintended Consequences of a Life in Martial Arts. Actions have consequences, and often, these consequences are completely unintended.
This is true in every aspect of life, from personal choices to global events. The things unfolding in the world today are no exception—while many act without awareness, the unintended results will soon become clear.
Who are the blind? The very ones responsible for these actions. Who refuse to see the potential of Unintended Consequences.
Unintended Consequences - The Cost of Kicking
I came from a kicking art, and I loved kicking. For the first 16 years of my training, 90% of what we did was leg-related. I pushed my body to its limits, tearing muscles in half, breaking bones, and even undergoing knee surgery. But at 30, no one could tell me anything—I thought I knew it all. Now, at 65, I realize just how little I truly understood.
In 1991, I had surgery on my left knee, and it has held up surprisingly well over the years. However, in 2012, I injured my right knee on a staircase, twisting it in the dark when I failed to see an obstacle in my path. It took time, but it healed. Then recently, Charlie, one of my Huskies, ran into it, dislocating it again. The recovery is slow, but what is clear is that decades of kicking have taken their toll. Wear and tear is an unintended consequence.
Unintended Consequences - The Toll on the Body
But my knees aren’t the only part of me that has suffered from years of martial arts training.
At 16, while boxing with the Windsor Amateur Boxing Club, I was knocked out by an experienced 18-year-old fighter. In 1980, I suffered a severe concussion while playing hockey. And in 1990, I fractured my skull from a spinning hook kick.
The unintended consequence? I am blind in my left eye. But I do not see this as a complaint—I am grateful not to have suffered cognitive issues as well.
For many, this level of physical wear might create a sense of vulnerability. Yet, I do not feel that way. Even with weakened knees and a damaged eye, I am still able to move with precision and control. Just yesterday, I effortlessly evaded the excited charge of Fritz, another one of our Huskies. The reason?
Kosho Ryu Works. Period.
This is why I am so passionate about Kosho Ryu. It is not simply about physical techniques—it is a complete study of movement, perception, and adaptation. It is about understanding the natural laws that govern motion and interaction. It is a martial art that allows a practitioner to move effectively, even when the body is not at its peak.
For years, I have dedicated myself to exploring and teaching Kosho Ryu, ensuring that others can benefit from its profound principles. Through my home study courses, I aim to make this knowledge accessible to those who wish to deepen their understanding of martial arts beyond just techniques.
In June 2025, my Advanced Kosho Ryu Home Study Course will be released, designed for practitioners at the 2nd Dan Black Belt level. This course builds on the foundations laid in the 1st Dan program and delves deeper into the intricate principles that make Kosho Ryu such a powerful and effective system.
Unintended Consequences - Lessons from a Lifetime in the Arts
If there is one thing I have learned, it is that everything comes with consequences—both intended and unintended. The key is understanding how to adapt and evolve, ensuring that even setbacks become opportunities for growth.
Kosho Ryu has given me the tools to continue moving, thinking, and adapting, despite the wear and tear of decades of training. And that, perhaps, is its greatest lesson—true martial arts is not about fighting; it is about understanding and also understanding these Unintended Consequences.
Thank you for your time, and have a wonderful day. Keep learning.
Vă mulțumesc pentru timpul acordat și o zi minunată. Continua sa inveti.
Yours in the arts,
Grand Master Art Mason
Kosho Ryu Enterprises SLR, Romania
WhatsApp: +40 747 899 183
