January 2001 Newsletter
As I type 2001 I think back on the training that we have done in
Hackettstown since 1979. A number of the original students are still
involved in our training. The training has remained traditional in
nature, which is uncommon in these days because most directors of
schools look to make money, sacrificing the "art and the tradition
of self discovery and intrinsic improvement."
One of the strengths of a karate training session is that the process
is mental as well as physical, so the whole person benefits from the
time spent in the dojo as well as during the disciplined practice at
home. We cannot attempt to stay at the same level that we are at today.
We must try to improve our abilities at kata, kumite, and self
development.
Another strength of traditional karate training is seen when the
student can focus his or her energies on the inner qualities that set
our training apart from other forms of exercise. Goal setting is not
unique to karate training but is at times different because we cannot
look at just the physical benefits of an exercise program. We must take
into account that we want to improve ourselves physically, mentally and
emotionally. Think about what you want to accomplish during this year
and write it on a piece of paper - - - put it away in a safe place (with
your monthly dojo newsletters) and look at it every so often to see if
progress is being made toward accomplishing the desired goal.
Accept the challenge of setting realistic short and long term goals.
Be prepared to work toward the goal and step by step improvements will
be made.
"Remind thyself, in the darkest moments, that every
failure is only a step toward success, every detection of what is false
directs you toward what is true, every trial exhausts some tempting form
of error, and every adversity will only hide, for a time, your path to
peace and fulfillment."
Og Mandino |
