Thoughts from Vladimir’s Patreon Q&A

I’ve said this countless times before: every class, whether in person or online, every seminar, every talk or Q&A, Vladimir always shares something that stays with me and shifts the way I think. My life is better because of his words.

Yesterday was no exception.

In our 50-minute session of insightful questions and responses, one line stood out: “Remember what you are praised for and be like that person.” Just a handful of words, yet they carry the weight of a lifetime of reflection, study, and application.

There are moments when people show us incredible kindness—especially when we are in a position to help them, whether as a teacher, health provider, or guide. In those moments, they are often vulnerable, and when we offer a hand, gratitude and compliments naturally follow. It’s as if our Divinity is shining through—the best version of ourselves in action.

But then, there are the “other” times—those moments when our Humanity takes the lead. In those moments, we don’t always show our best selves. Our fears, weaknesses, and flaws often fuel our less-than-ideal actions.

Yin and Yang form a harmonious whole, just as Divinity and Humanity coexist within us. In other words, we have both light and dark within our personalities. Vladimir’s words remind us to choose the light when we feel the darkness creeping in. We become our own role models, our own benchmark.

Systema is a beautiful art, not just because of its power and effectiveness, but because teachings like this are a constant reminder. They offer us the chance to become not only better martial artists, but better people.