14/9/23 ^^^ Dokkodo - The Path of Aloneness

 “In the stories of the greatest Masters, past and present, we can inevitably detect a phase in their lives in which all of their future powers were in development, like the chrysalis of a butterfly. This part of their lives—a largely self-directed apprenticeship that lasts some five to ten years—receives little attention because it does not contain stories of great achievement or discovery. Often in their Apprenticeship Phase, these types are not yet much different from anyone else. Under the surface, however, their minds are transforming in ways we cannot see but contain all of the seeds of their future success.”  - Robert Green

This is the path I choose.  The Path of Mastery...

I got it all, here in my 10 km radius.  In the Empires of the Minds 2029 phase, I am transforming myself into a Grand Master Shokunin Kurina Tamashi.

I have to start now.  The 21 km Bukit Kiara Hill Run is just the beginning.  I am talking about going back to the past.  To the era where craftsmen take pride in their workmanship.

I had set four skills I wanted to master:

• To play the bamboo flute
• To play bass guitar like Steve Harris
• To draw cartoons like Sergio Arragones
• To master Kanji Calligraphy

So if things go as planned, I will be off the grid by 24/12/24.  I will be an apprentice again.  This includes mentoring from Steve and Sergio.  Either they come to me or I go to them on a short interval basis like spending a month in their summer homes.  Much like a summer camp.

I don't mind a rigorous schedule if they can spare the time.

We come to you, Sha.  Let's schedule two-semester courses on the four subjects.

Jolly good!  Yes, it can be a spring and fall semester.  The follow-up can be an annual biweekly retreat or remote learning.

Yes, mastering a craft is achieved through practice.  Not so much of attaining the knowledge.

Besides running, these are my deepest desires.  I want something to do with my hands.  I don't mind being a busker and a street artist.  All the while I am an orator and a writer.  Legs I use a lot.  It's the hands I need to utilize the most. 

We hear you, Sha...

Oh yeah, the deal is still on with the one-hour walk and dinner with the thought leaders and bookwriters.

Yes, we took note of that.

I want a life of Voluntary Simplicity.  Outly poor by inwardly rich.  

Yes, we understand, Sha.

mm