"Master:  A Rank awarded to someone who, after diligent study; is capable of practicing independently, without supervision.  Also, an individual who can correctly and independently instruct others.  Finally, the individual who shows the most promise for continuing to walk the path to the mountaintop and  immortality."

A number of people have shared their feelings about the award of a Master's Certificate -- the Pride and the Fear that came along with it.

As it turns out, you might spend a lifetime in pursuit of "Mastery," only to discover that when your teacher singles you out, names you "Master" and awards you a certificate, there is a hollow feeling in your stomach and a gnawing fear that "perhaps you're not really qualified -- that your teacher has missed your fundamental failure to get it.  In your mind, you're really an "Imposter in a Master's Robe."

When the day comes, you won't be the first to look inward in doubt.  And that is another plus -- for you will continue to search and grow.  You have realized that the external trappings do not capture the essence of Mastery -- which is continually sought, never achieved.

Do's and Don'ts for New Masters

Keep practicing!  The world is full of arrogant young people who -- full of themselves; get their black belt, certificate or robe and immediately sever connections with their system, teachers and history and set out to make a name for themselves.  And they do -- a bad one.  We said "practice or instruct" without supervision -- not Live Without Supervision...  It's a long road to the mountaintop.  And having the lifelong company of your teacher's teacher and your brothers and sisters in the art is a gift beyond price.

Teach!  There are too few responsible elders.  Add to the list by becoming one.  And oh by the way -- teaching is the absolute best way to learn.  You'll find yourself midway through a lesson, or worse just after one thinking -- "Did I tell them about the feet?"  Keeps one humble.

Don't Pick Fights!  There are people better than you and many others who aren't yet on the charts.  You may Practice with a partner, Push or Roll hands; but when it becomes about "winning. you may have gotten off the track.  This is about healing, martial applications, subtle distant communication and immortality -- fighting may not be the best we have to offer.

Don't Worry!  There is no ultimate list of "Real Master Qualifications" in some "Sky Temple."  But there actually is a real history of thousands of years for you to study.  Keep asking questions and keep learning.  Be forever a student.

Don't Fear Failure, Welcome It!  Cheng ManChing may have said it best: "Invest in Loss!"  So welcome every opportunity to practice and identify another area where you have yet to measure up.  That's where your work lies...

Live your life in the ongoing attempt to become one with Tao.

Congratulations!