Shu-Ha-Ri

Shu (Complying)

Keep quiet, work hard, and persevere!

The aspiring student seeks a teacher who can impart the fundamentals of a martial art. Nothing in the Budo learning process is as important as a good teacher. This is not the one with the most stripes on their belt, but the one who has years of training experience, has gone through the learning process themselves, and sets the right practical example in dedication and behavior.The teacher does not spare their students, but sets strict yet fair demands. Besides a good teacher, a strong will is also required to meet the training expectations. The student will also confront their ego, including traits like stubbornness, egocentrism, and impatience.Still, the student must submit to the teacher’s guidance and do exactly as instructed.

"Everything must be done exactly as shown, and the student has no say!"This is a period of staying silent and following instructions. During this phase, the teacher also tries to cultivate in the student the qualities discussed in the concept of Junanshin (patience, trust, humility, openness, and dedication).During this period, the student often struggles to perform or accept things whose purpose they do not yet understand. The only expectation is that the student follows instructions, maintains a compliant attitude, and perseveres.Successfully completing this phase lays a solid foundation for further practice of Budo.

Ha (Breaking)

After completing the first phase, the technical gap between teacher and student is no longer so large. The student is now at the front of the line and serves as an example for beginners. During this period, Budo is increasingly tailored to the individual. The student develops, in a way, their own distinctive way of moving. They will also form their own opinions and ideas.The teacher encourages the student to broaden their horizon, train in other Dojo, and work with different people. The student must now apply their knowledge in new situations without the teacher’s help.The student is fully on their own. Using their acquired knowledge, they will learn new techniques, gain new experiences, and meet people with completely different perspectives. Through all these experiences, their knowledge and skill will increase, and they will develop a unique identity — their Budo has matured.

Ri (Moving Away)

After completing this phase, the student may return to their teacher to become an assistant, or they may open their own Dojo and teach students based on their experiences and accumulated knowledge.

If you want, I can also make a polished, natural English version that reads more like a martial arts manual while keeping all the nuances of Shu-Ha-Ri. Do you want me to do that?

"Discover how the ancient concept of Shu-Ha-Ri parallels 'Onko Chishin'—study the past deeply to apply its wisdom in the present." 
Modern Shu-Ha-Ri

Reflect further in the moral story: 
a Highly Valuable lesson