11/26/2019
When West meets East in my life: it's an interesting thing to consider, having a license as a kimono teacher. It's not just knowing how to put on the garment. It's knowing the rules and guidelines of the school for which I have studied to obtain the certificate/menjyou.
I came across the following definition for "professional" in studying for a state insurance license. (Which, honestly, takes far fewer hours, time, funds and supplies than reaching the YamanoRyu Okuden level! Not to mention, insurance does not require bilingual skillsets as a native English speaker. )
The definition of a professional ---
"There are 7 requirements for recognition as a professional:
1) Specialized knowledge not understood by a lay person
2) Academic study of the subject
3) Licensing examination is required
4) Professional organization or society
5) Independence in their recommendations
6) Public recognition as professionals
7) A code of conduct "
It's not just about knowing how to get dressed. It's knowing context, history, appropriate behavior, etc. It's part of being a member of a larger, regulated organization with rules and standardized testing levels to ensure everyone has the same foundation before they proceed out into the wild. Number 3 and Number 7 stand out the most to me -- you can't just buy a certificate online. It has to be earned and demonstrated.
So sure, you can dress yourself and your friends, but please don't go telling people you're a "pro" if you haven't done the legwork to get that title.
