Here are my thoughts as a martial artist with injuries.  

A martial artist is one who pursues the perfection of a character through a lifetime of rigorous physical, mental, and spiritual training. A martial artist Seeks to analyze with an open mind and uses martial arts honorably while teaching and helping others so many can benefit.  Analyze and think about what you are practicing and strive to understand the principles behind the techniques. 

It was our Master who said, "you can be a great training partner with injuries, and that modifying techniques or drills can benefit the both of you."  Also, remember this, different people have different views in training but you emphasize your good character and values in your dealings with others because those who have trained for years know how to be a great training partners and it is good to modify techniques when needed, it keeps us open to learning more. 

The successful martial artist is one who is actively progressing towards his or hers goals.  THE FIRST, you must be functional meaning you must be functional in all ranges of combat, with or without a weapon, with or without injuries!!!  THE SECOND, is to deal with multiple attackers, using your footwork and strengths with heightened senses, in a calm state of mind to keep opponents from surrounding you and attacking all at once. 

THE THIRD, you must be able to perform in a variety of environments, and know the tricks of surroundings, sparring in the dark, different types of terrain, different type of clothing and teaching you how to perform while many senses are upset, including injuries!!!  If those of us with injuries just sat on the side lines and did not practice with a partner on what we can do, on what our strengths are, we would be in a world of trouble. 

To be able to modify techniques effectively is the key to understanding the art and you can effectively train you partner with or without an injury.  It's the way you train that makes you and others successful martial artists!!!  Working daily towards being a "successful martial artist" will ensure the harmonization of mind, body and spirit so that the art will continue to endure.