D
David Hoffman
Guest
Open question, if IMAF-Delaney dissolves, or as people like Mr. Bates part ways from JD, will the MOTTs welcome them back?
Palusut [/QUOTE]
Everyone who wants to make a positive contribution is welcome to become active in the International Modern Arnis Federation. It is not a personal issue relating only to the MOTTs and who they like or dislike or chose to welcome. The Federation includes a Board of Directors named by Professor, lifetime members and a large group of instructors, representative and students with a variety of skills, ranks and titles. We are all bound by the same rules and ethics which prohibit exclusionary practice or discrimination. Our Chairman, Randi Shea, MD, has guided us to act as a collective cooperating and concentrating on positive growth. There is a very strong emphasis on humility and focus on preserving and promoting the art; and building connections with the great pool of talent out there. We welcome, and very much look forward to, many more instructors from the Modern Arnis family becoming active and sharing their knowledge and experience.
We are proud of the work the Masters are doing in teaching the art and keeping the camps dynamic and strong. None of them are interested in being stars or monarchs, they are very eager to see more instructors become active in the IMAF, especially the original students and instructors active in the art throughout the years. They show respect for everyone, especially long term students and senior instructors.
In the case of Michael Bates, I like him personally and I do not want to judge others for their choices. I've enjoyed diners with him and stayed at his house when I was on tour with Professor. After all, it was my suggestion to Professor that he give Michael the junior grade Professor title (external to Modern Arnis obviously as Michael was a new instructor at that point. I have explained the use of the title in Modern Arnis, in this case, affectionately, JG-Junior Grade- Mike did use the title Shihan -Master- in his Karate school. I thought it would be a boost for Michael and I discussed it with Professor on the drive from Atlantic City to a seminar a Michaels club. It was also very humorous the way Professor announced it at the seminar. Professor was great fun, a real character and loved to tease and joke with those he liked. So for better or for worse I have to take credit for that one. It was meant to help Michael in his school. He is entitled to use the title properly!)
Professor was also very accepting of everyone, even when he perceived them as making a mistake and having acted against his wishes. He always welcomed people back with love. Professor liked Michael and Jeffrey, why would we not accept them back and enjoy their positive contribution should they choose?