The One Technique

A 10-year-old boy decided to learn judo even though he had lost his left arm in a car accident. He began training under a Japanese judo master.

Believing he was studying diligently and making great progress, the boy was puzzled as to why, after three months of practice, his teacher had taught him only one technique.

Finally, unable to contain his impatience any longer, the boy asked his teacher, “Sir, am I not able to learn any other techniques?”

The teacher replied, “This is the only technique I’m teaching you, and it’s the only one you need to learn.”

Although he didn’t fully understand his teacher’s words, the boy trusted him and continued his training.

Many months later, his master took him to participate in a judo competition. The boy was astonished to see that he easily won his first two matches. The third match was tougher, but after a while, his opponent grew impatient with his relentless attacks, and the boy skillfully used his single technique to win.

Still in awe of his success, the boy confidently stepped into the final match. This time, his opponent was a tall, strong, and far more experienced fighter. It didn’t take long before the boy was repeatedly struck and completely overwhelmed. At the end of the first round, worried that the boy might get injured, the referee signaled to end the match early. However, the boy’s teacher insisted, “Let him continue.”

As soon as the match resumed, his opponent made a grave mistake: he underestimated his adversary and let his guard down. Immediately, the boy executed his sole technique, throwing his opponent to the ground and pinning him firmly.

The boy went on to win the championship.

On the way home, teacher and student reviewed the techniques used in each match. Finally, the boy gathered the courage to express the thought that had long haunted him: “Sir, how is it possible that I became a champion with just one technique?”

The teacher answered, “You won for two reasons. First, you nearly mastered one of the most dangerous and effective moves in this martial art. Second, the only way your opponents could counter that technique was by gripping your left arm—something you don’t have.”

Sometimes, someone’s weakness can become their greatest strength. It’s wonderful to have advantages, but if you can transform a shortcoming into an asset, it’s truly miraculous. Believe in yourself—you can do anything!