I’ve been around a lot of political environments and one thing I can say for sure: if karate were like politics, anyone could become a black belt simply by being buddies with the sansei. I don’t even think anyone would argue that point. It’s clear that in a political realm, a person’s connections and alliances matter far more than their abilities.
Now, if that were true in karate, a dude could walk into a dojo, become friends with the sansei, and never if have to punch, kick, or watch Cobra Kai to earn a black belt. He could just be all, “hey, sansei, I’m going to the karate store, can I get you anything?” and the sansie would be like, “sure, buddy, how about a new gi?” and if the dude bought the sansei the new gi, he would have an in and never train one time. Then, over time, the sansei and the dude would become like peas and carrots. The sansei would hold a big ceremony and give the dude a black belt. Nevermind that the dude has never even worn a gi. His friendship with the sansei is the only credential he needs.
The belt would be worthless, of course. The dude wouldn’t know any more karate than someone who couldn’t even pronounce the word. But in the sansei’s dojo, the dude could walk around and act like a big shot. He could tell the lower belts, “hey, you’re not punching the right way” and the lower belts would listen to him based upon his belt level. The dude wouldn’t even have to demonstrate; his rank alone would give him the necessary credibility.
Let’s say the sansei moves away from the dojo and the dude has to actually prove his rank. That’s the dudes worst nightmare. some white belt who’s actually learned a thing or two could challenge the dude and knock him the hell out.
And that’s exactly what happens to political sycophants who have no valuable skills other than an ability to rub elbows. When they have to actually do some work, they can’t and they reveal themselves to be nothing but smiley faces with calloused elbows.
I wonder when political environments will solve this problem? Then again, they probably never will because then how would political buddies ever get jobs and feed their families?
