Responsibility

I have always said every blackbelt has two ranks, the one indicated by their belt and certificates, let's call that the "official" rank, and the one that is inside the person, the "practicing" rank.
Our system, PaSaRyu, is identified by its philosophy, (the four meanings of SUN), and its kata. It would seem to me to be incumbent upon every blackbelt to be proficient in both the philosophy and the kata up to his/her level and upon every Master to be proficient in...EVERYTHING! It is not only the "requirements", it is your responsibility.
The rank you wear represents the past work you have accomplished in our system. It is honorable and worthy of respect. Endeavor to maintain your inner rank at least at that level. You owe it to the students, our system and most of all, to yourself.