&gt; I read stories like this, and I wonder: does washing rice for 3 years really make your sushi that much better?<p>It&#x27;s tutelage <i>and</i> discipline. Someone who hasn&#x27;t worked in a busy kitchen wouldn&#x27;t understand how much mental&#x2F;physical discipline is required. &quot;Paying your dues&quot; is pretty common, around the world.