Bottom Line
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Basics
Learn the basics, practice the basics, and concentrate on using the basics in every technique or pattern or when sparring.
Respect
Respect you instructor as you would any other teacher, but do not worship your instructor. There is nothing special about martial art instructors that makes them any more important than another other professional teacher. If your instructor thinks or behaves as a little god or goddess, find another one.
Eastern Culture
Most martial arts have an oriental background so they are steeped in Far Eastern culture. Westerners have a curiosity about Eastern ways and thinks they are interesting. Different martial arts use varying amounts of Eastern culture, but none is required.