He was someone who had already achieved everything Ryan was chasing.
The next morning, Ryan arrived at the dojo earlier than usual.
Daniel was already there.
Cleaning the training area.
Ryan stopped.
“Master Carter?”
Daniel looked up.
“Yes?”
Ryan bowed.
“I owe you an apology.”
Daniel smiled.
“For what?”
“For disrespecting you.”
Daniel nodded.
“Why did you?”
Ryan thought.
“Because I thought I was better.”
Daniel smiled.
“That’s an honest answer.”
Ryan sat down.
“I spent years trying to become the best.”
“And?”
“I became good.”
Daniel nodded.
“But?”
Ryan looked down.
“I forgot why I started.”
Daniel understood.
Many young fighters made the same mistake.
They chased victories.
They chased recognition.
They forgot the purpose behind the discipline.
“Karate is not about defeating people.”
Daniel said.