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DVD cover; source: Netflix DVD |
“As quickly as you can, snatch the pebble from my hand. When you can take the pebble from my hand, it will be time for you to leave.”
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Scene at Shaolin monastery; source: Screenshot from DVD |
In Kung Fu, physical exercise is just as important as mental exercise. Training the body as well as the mind creates a well-rounded person. This approach to learning connects with the current idea of educating the “whole child.” In my opinion, it’s a shame that so many schools have eliminated physical education classes and recess to devote more time to test prep.
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Scene at Shaolin monastery; source: Screenshot from DVD |
“In the pond there are some lotuses, which stand above the water. And though their roots feed, they are themselves untouched by it. Some others have risen only to the water’s level. And others...are still underwater.”
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Scene in Sun and Cloud Shadow; source: Screenshot from DVD |
“Shall I seek to measure these differences, master, that I may treat them differently, each according to his growth?”
“Examine the flower. Is not the flower, in each position, yet a flower?”
“Shall I then...treat each man the same?”
“As far as possible, without surrender. Be on good terms with all.”
Riddled throughout the show are similar pithy sayings. What’s the point, besides being good TV? In hindsight and from the perspective of an educator, I see these exchanges as techniques for teaching critical thinking. Masters Po and Kan are trying to equip Kwai Chang Caine with analytical skills so he will be able to fend for himself in the outside world. Just as good teachers nowadays try to instill in their students the ability to think for themselves, to examine and evaluate the world around them and, in consequence, make informed decisions about their world and themselves.
I will be watching more episodes of Kung Fu to see what else it can teach me!