Learning from Shakuhachi

[Knotwilg]

Now that I'm studying music again, I came across a video where a Western musician explains the Shakuhachi, a Japanese flute. He cites the following saying from the Shakuhachi tradition:

The shakuhachi takes a lifetime to master. So the earlier you start, the longer it takes

The guy goes on to say that this goes for any skill: it's not about the achievement of mastering an instrument (or skill). It's about the journey and the longer it takes, the deeper it becomes.

I found that truly inspiring and a good antidote for all of us who are speculating how many hours or games it takes to achieve whichever level it is we aspire.

[jlt]

In China, it refers to any study, learning, or practice that requires patience, energy, and time to complete. In its original meaning, kung fu can refer to any discipline or skill achieved through hard work and practice, not necessarily martial arts.