Is This Attainable?

Kensey and I have recently ordered some dussack trainers, so a few nights ago we took to YouTube to watch people using them. In one video, we saw a guy who moved really, really well-- in total control at all times, able to pivot and flow and change directions and stop on a dime, all the stuff you'd want to see out of a higher end fighter. The contrast with the opponent was stark, though the opponent wasn't moving poorly. The difference in juxtaposition was just very obvious. 

As we talked about what we were watching, she asked me: "Is that even possible for me?"

I am incredibly proud and pleased to say that she is making a return to fencing after a hiatus. The specter of expectations looms large, and while expertise is always a faraway dream at the beginning of any learning endeavor... the truth is, in case you didn't know: "Yes, it is absolutely possible for you." And you as well, dear reader.

I am not going to pretend that it is easy, or doesn't take substantial amounts of effort and dedication, but it is a completely attainable goal for anyone who does the work. Even with a slow start, and even if it seems like there is a big plateau, or worse, a mountain in front of you, it is absolutely attainable. 

The number of times I have seen someone struggle, falter, overcome, and eventually exceed their own expectations is well over one thousand-- between my experiences in fencing and my experiences as a teacher, this is just the truth for anyone and everyone: 

You, as the novice, have more untapped potential than you can even realize.

You, as the advanced beginner, see the distance from novice but have not yet understood that you can traverse that same distance many times over from where you are now.

You, the competent, only now see how far you have really come in the context of how far you have to go, but know you have the tools to continue.

You, the proficient, have only to carry on and persist a bit longer.

You, the expert. You, my friend, you only wish you could make everyone see in themselves what you couldn't always see in yourself. But, you know it is there: in you, in them.