I was thinking about the relationship that I have with my Sifu. I can say that I've been truly blessed to have met him.

Sifu Chan has and is a great mentor and encourager. He continually provides me with insights into Wing Chun, and for that matter Chinese martial arts, that I would take me years to figure out on my own. He's patience with my Cantonese (I know it must sound horrible), he pushes me always to strive for better technique, better understanding, and most importantly, better character. He understands that to become a sifu, a person has to know more than the mechanics of the art, he has to have the character and heart to truly become a good sifu. Sifu Chan is truly one in a million.

The relationship between the Teacher and Student is an interesting one particularly in Chinese martial arts. Many teachers want to be put on a throne and worshipped, but as my Sifu would say,'I am only a man, and I can make mistakes too.' and 'The only one that should be worshipped is the LORD.' On both accounts I have to totally agree with him.

So what is the Teacher - Student relationship? It is more than a contract agreement between two people to exchange the knowledge of Chinese Martial arts. This relationship is more of a Father - Son relationship. This relationship revolves around respect, trust, and understanding. And grows to be more than about Chinese Martial Arts, it becomes a friendship that goes beyond the kwoon (school).

Some of the best times I've had was having lunch with Sifu Chan, and just talking and laughing. It's great too when I learn more about my Sifu's life and adventures. What he shares with me adds color and flavor to my own life.

This relationship is also about give and take, better yet, sharing. If you think that when you join a school or club, that all you want is to learn the knowledge of the Chinese martial arts, you are truly short changing yourself.

So the next time you go to class, ask sincerely how your Sifu is. Remember he is a human being too.

Keep Training, Keep Praying, Keep thinking.

Chuck O'Neill is an evangelical Christian and martial artist. Over his 12 years of experience in martial arts he as had formal martial arts training in Judo, Tae Kwon Do, and Kosho Ryu Kenpo Karate. He also has had training in elements of Western Boxing, grappling, Tai Chi, and Wushu. He is currently learning Wing Chun from Sifu Nelson Chan of the Christian Wushu Fellowship, located in Toronto, Ontario.

The opinions of this article are solely those of the writer and are not the expressed opinions of the Christian Wushu Fellowship. Copyright 2005 Charles G. O'Neill

To read other articles by Chuck O'Neill check out "Modern Martial Artist"