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The Masks We Wear

by Sifu Nick Francis

 

Hanging in my house as a souvenir is a collection of Chinese masks most notably recognized for their role in Chinese history, culture and tradition. I collected several on my first visit to Asia. These masks all have meaning. They all have a role. They explain, in some measure of detail, the background, role and intention of each character used in Chinese Opera.

 

  • Red masks indicate courage, heroism, bravery as well as loyalty.

  • Yellow masks indicate that the character is evil and cruel.

  • Black masks indicate someone who is neutral.

  • Green masks are used for violent characters.

  • Gold and Silver masks are reserved for supernatural creatures.

 

As a collection of these masks hang in my personal training room, I was swayed this week to ponder...

 

Which one best describes the Lancaster Wing Chun Association?

 

I know what I want my answer to be and it is my hope to create a place where that answer is enthusiastic and obvious. However, I also know that the decision is not only up to me. I know that the LWCA must be more than a building. It must be more than just a martial art school. I know that for it to truly be Wing Chun, it must be more than just self-defense.

 

Much... much... more!

 

Therefore, I ask...

 

Will you help me create a place where we can continue to become the best versions of ourselves?

 

A place where, 

  • Courage fuels community and learning.

  • Heroism stands against the voice of despair.

  • Compassion crushes indifference.

  • Ego falls to the bravery of humility.

  • Character is more precious than power.

 

With gratitude, I see us all coming together, week after week, to do just this.

 

Thank you.

 

In this shared effort, I trust the outcome will be that our lives are better because of it!



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