At first glance, this is just a random collection of people, but when they meet on the mat at the jiu jitsu gym, they are all equals.
Every one of them has unique strengths. Every one of them has a shot at winning – regardless of occupation, age, gender, or size.
There is a reason it’s called a “martial art”, because as with any art – here too, anyone can learn the proper techniques. But the real talent lies in the way in which every person chooses to express these techniques, and combine them with his personal abilities. Here, unlike in other martial arts, a fighter is not assessed – merely individually – but also in the way he conducts himself as part of a team. There’s a saying that has long been an integral part of our DNA – “We Rise by Lifting Others.” It means that your path to elevate yourself entails lifting others along for the ride.
It is not just a saying, but a way of life, according to which each and every one of these individuals who steps on the mat joins a team that has special significance; a living, breathing community which sustains itself, grows, and develops by communal learning, experimentation, practice, and unwavering mutual support.
True, at the end of the day, each one of us wants to win. And as with any martial art, at the end of the day the podium can only accommodate a single, overall winner. That number 1 spot signifies the competitiveness and the relentless march towards excellence on which we never compromise. However, when it is attained through mutual respect, true friendship, and heartfelt support, that number 1 spot holds an even greater meaning and value. Much greater.
In the end, only a single person is able to claim that number 1 spot – but he or she is one of us.