Several people have asked me for the full written out meaning of the salutation that goes along with the “Bow-in” in Kali class.
It is deep and meaningful especially when you think about it’s original context in the Philippines! I find it has equal meaning for me today in mine. Realizing these two contexts juxtaposed against one another, I am reminded of the timelessness of these concepts and techniques and especially the meaning behind these words!
The following is the full meaning of the Lacoste Kali Salutation as it was given to me.
“AS HEAVEN AND EARTH AS MY WITNESS. [ALSO MEANS, I STAND BEFORE THE CREATOR AND MANKIND.]
I WILL STRIVE FOR KNOWLEDGE AND WISDON WITH THE FIVE SENSES AND BEYOND THE FIVE SENSES.
I WILL STRIVE FOR THE LOVE OF ALL MANKIND AND THERE WILL BE NO SHEDDING OF NEEDLESS BLOOD.
I BOW NOT IN SUBMISSION, BUT IN RESPECT TO YOU.
I EXTEND THE HAND OF FRIENDSHIP TO YOU OVER THE HAND OF WAR AND I LOOK TO THE CREATOR FOR DEVINE GUIDANCE.
I AM TRAINED TO BE A WARRIOR WITH WISDOM, IF MY PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP IS REJECTED.
I STAND IN SYMBOLISM, FOR I SERVE ONLY THE CREATOR, MY TRIBE AND MY FAMILY. AND I OWE NO ALLEGANCE TO ANY FOREIGN KING.
WITH MIND AND HEART I CHERISH THE KNOWLEDGE MY INSTRUCTOR HAS GIVEN ME, FOR IT IS MY LIFE IN COMBAT.
I AM PREPARED TO GO AGAINST YOU EVEN IF YOUR SKILL IS GREATER THAN MINE.
AND IF MY BODY FALLS TO YOU IN COMBAT – YOU HAVE ONLY DEFEATED MY PHYSICAL BODY.
FOR MY FIGHTING SPIRT AND SOUL ARISE TO THE HEAVENS, FOR THEY ARE UNCONQUERABLE.”
