Conditions for Presentation

While some may think the Phoenix pendant is presented automatically upon reaching a certain rank or title, this is not the case.

To be honoured with the presentation of the Phoenix, an individual must display qualities above and beyond those of an ordinary member, and strive to uphold the virtues, principles and philosophies of Bushido Martial Arts.

The seven virtues of Bushido are the foundation of the qualities expected of a recipient of the Phoenix.

Rectitude/Duty

Rightness of principle or practice; exact conformity to truth, or to the rules prescribed for moral conduct

Courage

The quality of a confident character not to be afraid or intimidated easily but without being incautious or inconsiderate

Benevolence

The disposition to do good and be righteous

Respect/Politeness

To have an attitude of consideration or high regard for themselves and others

Honesty/Truthfulness

The act, quality, or condition of being honest; to be truthful

Honour

To have Dignity; To strive to do what is right and just to maintain a reputation as a good person

Loyalty

To be unswerving in allegiance, faithful to a cause, ideal, custom, or institution

Adherence to these virtues can be shown in a number of ways through Dojo and external activities. For example;

  • Duty can be shown by assisting with Dojo operations such as assisting with preparing for classes and packing up when the class is finished

  • Students with the courage to face their fears, to overcome adversity and be a better person as a result

  • To become a better person and a better member of the community

  • Respecting the diversity and difference that exists within our community and our classes and treating all members, whether higher rank or lower rank, with the same level of respect

  • Being honest in their dealings with students, parents and instructors, ensuring they say what they mean, always with a view to helping to improve themselves and others

  • Following the philosophies of the group, both inside and outside of the Dojo, always trying to do that which is right and true, upholding the highest of morals

  • Remaining loyal to the group and its philosophies through good times and bad times, supporting fellow students in their time of need, always being there to help in any way possible.

Through the actions of the individual, it will become clear when they are ready to be accepted into the special group within the group, to receive recognition of their determination to be the best they can be, to become a part of our special “family”.

For an instructor or an existing Phoenix recipient (after speaking with the instructor) to recommend a member as worthy of receiving a Phoenix, they must submit a written recommendation to the Head Instructor, detailing the qualities that make the member worthy of being honoured as a recipient of the Phoenix.

The Head Instructor will then make a determination as to whether the proposed recipient is worthy of wearing the badge of the group.