Crouching Tiger

Wudan masters teach their pupils many different values and life lessons. Respect is perhaps the most important value the Wudan masters try to enlighten their pupils with. Li Mu Bai, a Wudan master in Crouching Tiger, has a strong desire to teach one of his pupils, Jen. He had such a strong desire to teach Jen because he gave her true direction and touching her heart.  Li Mu Bai is also driven by the fact that he believes he can achieve his Tao through her. This idea was first seen when he saw the light during his meditation. He felt that he hadn't achieved Tao and couldn't find true happiness. Another reason I believe he had a strong desire to educate her is because of her strong romantic, enlightenment, and spiritual level. Jen doesn't chose to follow tradition or order. She instead acts out on impulse and emotion giving her distinct reason based on heart and mind. This represents the Chan Buddhism concept of true mind. Li Mu Bai acknowledges this and makes his respect for her as a pupil equal to her respect for him as a master. Lastly, Jen's self discipline allows her to accumulate great energy and sets her apart as a premier pupil.