sensei8

Learning the Kihon [basics] as a beginner that blocks are just that, however, a block isn't always a block in Kata, whereas in Kumite, a block might just be that. As time goes by, you'll learn, style dependent, as well that a block isn't a block at all, but it's a deflector, and oftentimes, it receives the attack, like a wide receiver would do during a football game.

Solid post!! Interesting how you choose the word "Cult"...very interesting!! I personally have never thought of the MA as a possible cult, albeit, it very well could be, as I might've had my head in the sand, refusing to think of the MA as a cult. The MA, depending on the individual, can be construed as a cult...aka...a group. Is it positive or is it not? Outsiders can only assume from afar, whereas an insider is in the thick of it!! Some of those insiders, at first don't imagine that they're in a cult, whether it be good or bad. However, as time rolls on by, those same insiders start, for whatever reason(s), to realize that they're in a cult. In my 52 years in the MA, I've never thought of my MA journey as it being a cult. A group? Yes!! To me the word cult has negative overtones that I don't want in my life. Whereas the word group has positive overtones that I do want in my life. I don't view Shindokan Saitou-ryu as a cult; not even close, as I understand the word cult to be. The cult of Shindokan?!? Makes me shiver in its overall content as I imagine that possibility, as I ask myself...however, I refuse, of my own accord, to embrace that possibility because of my believe in the negative overtones of that word...CULT!! The cult of Shindokan!! Having those two exclamation points at the end of that statement causes me to run away from it because I fear that word...cult!! All of my years in Shindokan, I've considered my being that positive proponent of Shindokan, but only as a infinite cog of the Shindokan wheel. Shindokan as a cult...NO!! Shindokan as a group...YES!! Group...Cult...are they one in the same?? I suppose that it's how ones been raised in and out of the MA.

Interesting topic, thanks for starting it Spartacus Maximus!! This topic, as well as its countless discussions over the eons of time, is without a definitive answer because practitioners are as varied in their answers as the mighty rushing wind. Opinions are what the MA thrives for because without opinions, practitioners of the MA are akin to a robot; without thought and/or reasoning. Often times, the creation of the ranking system, is nothing more then the bane of existence with a CI. Rank achieved is rank earned, and never expected. Or at least that's how it should be. Rank is coveted, however, the higher the rank, the more rank is coveted, as though rank is all that the MA is good for. Any MAist that's been on the floor for some time, know how the ranking system came about, but as I learned a long time ago, change isn't always good, however, it's inevitable, and that's because man seeks acceptance over knowledge. I long for the day when rank is put into its place. Not as the most sought after prize, but as some sort of signal, and/or mark, of ones knowledge/experience!! I fear that that will never happen in my life, or therefore after either. Be careful with what it is that you create Mr. Kano; it might bite you back in the long run!! That which can't be controlled is that which just might run you over; just like an out of control freight train. Rolling forward so fast, and so dangerous, as its brakes, in the hopes of slowing it down, fail because the initial intent has been contaminated. Anything is possible; nothings without hope!! The ranking system is so much ingrained in the MA world, or the world, as well as in Man, that for the ranking system to not exist, might be quite shock to ones senses, in which, that type of reality might not sit so well with the masses. To minimize the ranking system might have the very same affect, however, imho, the minimizing of the ranking system is more doable than wiping it off the MA landscape. The horror, or the beauty, depending on whom one asks, is that is controlled, for the most part, by the Governing Body. Sure, competitive events of the MA, like the Olympics can have their requirements for whatever the reason(s) might or might not be. Therefore, to cast away the ranking system entirely would cause competitive events some troubles some how and some way. Nonetheless, the WKF is that model of striping away rank on an outside identifier, in which, Red and Blue belts are the only belt colors, as if to say that Red is competitor 'A'/'1' and Blue is competitor 'B'/'2'. No! No one needs them[belts/Ranking]! Is it an acceptable method for the CI as well as its instructors to quickly, at a glance, know something about that student. Of course, CI's should know, and will know, a students knowledge/experience within mere minutes, if not seconds, once said student is on the floor. The only thing absolute about the MA is that a practitioners journey has a start and an end; anything else is uncertain. Dojo's might have more leniency than Governing Bodies in this regard, however, both are not without their pitfalls. Pride, in both, comes before the fall, or better said, pride is the root of all evil. Ego is the fuel that feeds that pride. There's a saying, that goes something like this...if one wants tomatoes, one will have to go to a tomato vendor, and not to the carpenter!! Whatever the school or the Governing Body decrees, that is what will be...period!! Rules of either aren't up for debates and/or discussions by its Student Body. You want to learn this style of the MA, then one must do what that CI, and/or Governing Body demands. If not, which is ones right, walk away from it as fast as ones feet can carry them away! Impressions can be everything or nothing at all...at the same time. I don't need anything but the student!! I don't need a gi!! I don't need a belt!! I don't patches!! I don't need rank!! I just need a student, and a place to teach, whether it be inside or outside!! That's been discussed over the eons between MA all over the world, and for myself, I yearn for that day to be a widely acceptable practice, without reservation, whatsoever!! As mentioned already in this topic, for children, the myriad of belts might be more acceptable across the board; anything that helps to motivate said child, and of course, that child would need a CI that can teach the positiveness of the rank system. Albeit, I believe that a child would do fine with a three belt system. That again depends on the CI and how the three rank system is presented. I'm of the mindset that says that rank, as a marketing tool, is destructive. How? One will hate one Master, while loving the other Master; knowledge is the only Master that a student should seek!! Is rank the Master of that student, or is knowledge the Master of that student?? Either way, then why?? As long as students of the MA accept the status quo of the belt ranking system obediently without ambiguity, and we students do have a choice, then any future positive changes that looms just over the distant horizon shall be just that...out of reach.

Kumite takes some getting use to, and seeing that Kumite is part of the three K's [Kihon/Kata/Kumite], one will have to get use to them all because they're an intricate part of Karate-do; sooner one gets use to them, the better off that practitioner will be.

Iwao has respectfully declined my "unreasonable" stipulations, as he's also added that "You'll hear from my Lawyers very soon!!", and in that I say... Bring them on; I don't sweat the small things...never have...never will!! Our Legal Team has assured us all that Iwao's threats are "vain, as well as without substance!!" One day, the drama of this magnitude will cease so that we can do what we all came here for, and that is...train wholeheartedly in Shindokan!! I felt like your expectations were very reasonable, considering whom you were trying to protect from any potential issues down the track. I hope nothing happens out of that threat of legal action! Thanks, Liam for your kind words!! As far as the threat of legal action against us/me, I'm of the side of caution, even though our Legal Team isn't worried in the slightest. Should something come from his idle threats, our Legal Team is more than prepared to defend us/me; our Legal Team is very meticulous in all aspects of record keeping, as is our Executive Secretary.

That's great news, twistkick kid, absolutely fantastic to hear. Ease into a regular routine, but only in time; wouldn't want to acerbate the injury. As far as the pins go...I feel I must refer you back to your doctor because his counsel is above anyone else.

Is it possible, and I'm only guessing, that the gi was made with pre-shrunk material, if there's such a thing?!? If so, then that might be why your gi hasn't shrunk.

To the gym I go...to the gym I go...hi ho a merry oh...to the gym I go...and then I went... Cardio 270lbs...got to break this mark..come on 260'slbs!! Journey started my weight was 326lbs. StairMaster: 35 minutes...105 floors...450 calorie burn...Levels 4, 5, 6, and 7!! In the beginning, 20 minutes on Level 1. Surely and slowly, my Level increased from 1, then to 2, then to 3, then to 4...Level 4 is where I stayed at until my Cardiac Inversion on January 30, 2017, then I quickly went up to a mixture of Levels 4, 5, 6, and 7; with each workout, I'd drop Levels 4, then 5, to a steady back and forth in that 35 minutes of Levels 6 and 7. TreadMill: 25 minutes...Forest Walk Program...205 calorie burn. Ever since October 4, 2016, I maintained a 20 minute workout, with the Forest Walk Program. Since the January 30, 2017, I've extended my workout to be 25 minutes...soon, I'll increase the time up to 30 minutes. Rowing Machine: 25 minutes...270 calorie burn. I first started with 10 minutes, and that was a workout, then to 20 minutes at only 200 calorie burn. Ever since January 30, 2017, I've been averaging a 270 calorie burn in a 25 minute span. That's a 70 calorie burn in 5 minutes, whereas, before, I'd only get a calorie burn of 10 per minute. Calorie burn daily average...925. When this first started, I'd average a calorie burn of 520, then, slowly but surely, I maintained a average calorie burn of 600...then after January 30, 2017, I average a 925 calorie burn I've no idea just how much I burn with those listed below...not a clue!! What I've also added to my Cardio is the Battle Ropes and Rope Pull. Battle Ropes: 10 distinctive different exercises...3 reps of each for 20 seconds each just as fast as I can. Then 3 sets of Rope Pull pulling down in two different directions for 20 seconds each, as fast as I can. Every other day... Free weights: 2 hours Once per week... Swimming: Lap Pool...50 yard length...10 up and down laps. Every Saturday. I believe that if I could add more to each thing I do, as I've slowly done ever since my Cardiac Inversion, I should stay on track with my October 4, 2017 weight loss goal of 216-220lbs. Think of this...at 270bs...I need to still drop 50lbs...and since this journey began, I've lost 56 pounds...4 months...14lbs per month...just a tad over 3.50lbs per week!!

Well, well, well...what a meeting can accomplish!! Well done!! As to the bold type above... It's a nice sentiment, and I hope that this is true, however, as long as one possess a position of assumed authority, and from what your duties are, you've authentic authority within the scope of your position. Politics will rear its ugly head more often than you might want and/or desire; it comes with the territory!! As far as a website, it's yours' decision. I don't believe that it's necessary, but that's just me. Will having a website for your Governing Body make your style more credible...or does your CI/Instructors make your style more credible??!!??

I would very much appreciate any and all help from you Sensei8. As issues come up I will post them to get your feed back. The only issue we have right now is the name and branding. If Shinshii names a successor this issue is a mute point. However neither myself or Kosei want to step into this role at this point in our journey. I have turned it down once before and truthfully my mindset has not changed on the matter. Having said this I personally think that by changing the name we avoid any confusion with our old association and any legal recourse they would levy against us even if they have nothing to stand on. To me the change is minor and in keeping with the intent of our lineage. It certainly drives the point of old school home. The original name was Matsumura Shorin Ryu. Pretty common except some utilize the Seito or Kempo with in the name. It was changed to Matsumura Suide (Shuri-Te). We are tossing around Matsumura Suide To-Di Jutsu and Matsumura Shuri-Te Karate Jutsu. I personally have always preferred the Uchina Guchi (Hogan) pronunciation rather than the Japanese pronunciation. As far as the branding I will leave that up to our lawyer and whether Shinshii feels like getting involved from a legal perspective since the design is his and unique to his schools. I will ask if there is a way to make sure that a board of equally powered individuals can be made permanent in Bylaws so that no one person can call the shots. We thought our previous bylaws covered these issues sufficiently but as I found out they did not. I guess I'm asking how you build in a prevention so that, say a Soke, can not be elected by the board. Myself, Kosei and the 4 other instructors I mentioned all have agreed that there was one Shinshii (in this context I am using the term Shinshii as an honorary role denoting founder/leader/ family head. All teachers are refered to as Shinshii just like Sensei. Shinshii just never liked other titles or accolades so we all used this term to mean more than just teacher when refering to him) and none of us want to be in that role. For one thing none of us feel worthy of that role not to mention that none of us have the grade or teaching license consistent with this position. We all understand that once awarded/granted this position an automatic grade of Kudan and license of Hanshi would follow but to be honest we all feel this would be little more than a paper tiger (meaningless if not earned). The only really good thing that has come out of this is Shinshii agreed to grade us to Hachidan when he feels we are ready and we feel ready. He is also going to award Kosei with the Hanshi teaching license which gives him the ability to grade higher than two grades below his. From a training and grading stand point I feel we have all that we need to succeed. From a protective/political/operations stand point we are lacking as neither of us have done anything except follow the bylaws and rules set in place by Shinshii. We know there are loop holes but just don't know how to fix them. I am sure that our legal council will cover most but as you said if you have not ran across something before you may not know what to look for. One thing we have discussed and are going to administer is the appointing of our legal counsel to the board as an honorary member without voting rights. This way he gets all issues first hand and can advise us how to navigate the issues in keeping with the intent of our bylaws. The mistake we all made was there was a few with good intentions that voted against the intent of our bylaws thus inadvertently changing the bylaws by precedent. I'm sure I sound like I know what I'm talking about but I assure you I am merely parroting what we have been told by legal counsel. One more issue I fear is the fact that now more than half of the student body has told us that they will be leaving our old association and following/joining us. This in itself worries me as this will, if nothing else, anger our previous association and possibly bring us into a legal battle even if there is no way for them to win. My fear is all of the money going into this at this point is mine and Kosei's. We definitely do not have the money or the time to fight a legal battle even if we are right. Can you tell me how this could effect us and what recourse, if any, our old association would have if almost 3/4 of their student body jumps ship and joins us? Actually this number may be a little light but I am being conservative thinking that not all will jump ship even though their instructors have already committed. As I said, I think it's more like a little more than half. Even so this is a huge set back and will not make a very egocentric president, bent on increased numbers, a happy camper to say the least. Any guidance is appreciated. First off, I truly do believe that you've grabbed the bull by its horns! However, instead of not controlling the bull, you're controlling it by the steps you've made thus far. Great intro in your post because there's a lot of history as well as the corrective measurements that were taken. Great start to reaching a final solution!! Secondly, our Soke set aside one department from all of the rest, and for a purpose; it's made all of the differences in the long run. That department is not a part of the SKKA/Hombu; it's independent through and through. The department that's been separated from the rest, and for a great reason, is our Legal Team!! Our Legal Team is so separate, Soke forbid their entire Law Firm, past, present, and future, from ever joining the SKKA/Hombu in any shape, way, and/or form; not even as a student. Soke demanded that biased mindset far and away from the SKKA. Hugh Beckworth, and his Law Firm have no direct and/or indirect involvement as a student would have. In short, our Legal Team advises and represents us as a Law Firm would for a client; we're the client, and nothing more. Yes, they are "in the room" at all times!! Nothing is withheld from our Legal Team, and we mean NOTHING!! That trust has to be there for that relationship to be credible, validity, and trustfully!! Thirdly, I'm quite apprehensive about offering any type of Legal advice and/or suggestions to you because you've a Lawyer, and anything I might do, might undermine what advice/suggestions your Lawyer has offered/given to you. And of course, anything that I might advise and/or suggest on the Legal front, should be consulted with your Lawyer. Your Lawyer is way and above anything or anyone, no matter what. Proprietary things are crucial, and divulging anything outside of your inner most circle might violate confidentiality between you and your Lawyer. We must be careful across the board!! Our Legal Team has NO VOTING AUTHORITY; they're our advisors, therefore, they're our Legal Advisors/Lawyers...no more, and certainly, no less. A very important part of the SKKA, and from time to time, their Legal advice moves us in uncharted territory, however, his directness comes through loud and clear. Hugh plays no favorites, and he's a get-in-your-face type of Lawyer, who has no problem telling us that we're stupid, if need be!! Fourthly, your old Governing Body has no recourse, whatsoever!! Why? Students, human beings, can't be sold and bought. No Governing Body OWNS any student. Sure, the Governing Body can dismiss every awarded rank certificate and so on and so forth. But, so what?? Let the baby have its temper tantrum; it'll happen, or it won't. Don't let that threat change the course that's already been plotted in. Your Lawyer will instruct you across the board legally should this ever become an issue with the old Governing Body. I would express my concerns about this with your Lawyer, then forget about it, TEACH...that' what CI's and the like are there for!! Btw, if this should happen, it's a good thing for you, and bad for them!! Be cautious as to how you acquire said Student Body, because of the manner of which you attract said Student Body, can have some negative repercussions if ones not careful. In that, consult with your Lawyer. Fifthly, let me very briefly talk about Branding. Most, if not all, schools of the MA understand much, if anything, about Branding; they've only mild assumptions...we know what that can lead to. 1> Not all Brands can be protected!!!! 2> Brands are NOT built overnight 3> Brands know no borders 4> Use the TM superscript right away 5> No Brand lives forever 6> Brands are not companies, and companies are not Brands 7> Brand names that are generic kill the Brand 8> It’s a race to use the Brand, not to register the brand 9> Trademark law is about consumer confusion 10> Easiest way to destroy the Brand is to put it on everything Branding is a cautious tale that must be told quite carefully, and often!! Many businesses ignore the pitfalls of Branding, and oftentimes, schools of the MA don't have the most minimum of an idea what Branding consists of. This is where your/our/theirs Legal Team/Lawyers are the most invaluable asset in their continuous survival. Change is inevitable across the board, and changes to the Brand can happen. However, any change to the Brand should be rare, as well as, very fastidiously!!

I strictly do not have a website, nor have I ever had a website, nor do I want a website, nor will I ever want one; I do quite well, in that each of the dojo's I've owned and operated had a student body of over 300 on an average. Am I the only one that reads this as a Dr. Seus tone? I respect that even in your organization's leadership role that you did not allow that power to go to your head and let schools run themselves. If I lived closer I would totally look to you for training. Thanks, LLLEARNER!! A long, long, long, well, you get the meaning, ago, I learned to check my ego at the door, and when I do, the student body of my dojo's, as well as the SKKA/Hombu benfit the most from that. Our floor awaits you, my friend!! After I re-read what I had posted, I too read it as a Dr. Seuss tone!

Well, I do have a Facebook page, but it's a personal one, and I've never used my FB page for any of my dojo's. The SKKA/Hombu, doesn't have a FB page other, for the same reason(s) that it doesn't have a website. It's just not that important...at all!!

So schools that are apart of the SKKA are not allowed to make a website? I mean from you have told us, your student body between all schools is a good size. Therefore, I guess a website doesn't make a difference. Dojo's that are within the SKKA network can have a website, if they choose to do so; after all, it's their school to do with as they desire, the SKKA would NOT interfere with that schools policies. I strictly do not have a website, nor have I ever had a website, nor do I want a website, nor will I ever want one; I do quite well, in that each of the dojo's I've owned and operated had a student body of over 300 on an average. As far as the Hombu is concerned, I don't know if it'll ever have a website in my life time; it's not a priority. The Hombu has entertained having a website, and this desire is more curious than practical, for quite some time. A website is the choice of the school alone!! EDIT: Sentence structure corrections

It seems that most here still think that the fault lies within the student, and NOT with the CI!! Why is that?? Yes, this subject is about students who just don't get "it", and this is a true concern, but the CI's are just as fallible as the students...even if we're only speaking about 1 student. Student(s) are the representative of the CI and of the style. If you can find a student that just doesn't get it...still...then I'd start looking at the CI across the board. And if the student is at fault, then the CI must do what that CI was called upon to do...TEACH...never giving up on any student. Imagine if YOUR CI gave up on you...causes one to cringe...doesn't it?!?!

Another reason why we two have many things in common; kind of strange, but kind of reassuring that I'm the only one with these problems within a governing body entity. I wrote an article here at KF that speaks specifically to your plight... http://www.karateforums.com/why-my-martial-arts-school-doesn-t-have-a-website-vt47179.html That article, as well as the discussions that followed it, might have some things of interest that might aide you. As always, I'm here to help in any way possible, and it helps me if you ask me direct questions so that I can share what we've/I've experienced in this area, should you still have any questions/concerns still. Btw, the SKKA/Hombu STILL DOES NOT HAVE A WEBSITE for the many reasons mentioned in the article and discussions. At the end of the day...it's all good!!

Iwao has respectfully declined my "unreasonable" stipulations, as he's also added that "You'll hear from my Lawyers very soon!!", and in that I say... Bring them on; I don't sweat the small things...never have...never will!! Our Legal Team has assured us all that Iwao's threats are "vain, as well as without substance!!" One day, the drama of this magnitude will cease so that we can do what we all came here for, and that is...train wholeheartedly in Shindokan!!

Because a student, at the assumption of the CI, just doesn't get it, there's no reason to give up on said student. Learning curves and the like vary from student to student. It took me 6 years to earn my JBB; I never thought I was going to get it, the things of the MA. I failed and failed and failed and struggled and struggled and struggled...with no hope in sight. None that I could foresee in the future. Still, I pushed and pushed...within the learning curve, I was of the mindset that speaks the old idiom...Having been knocked down 7 times, but no matter what, negates all of that when said individual stands up for the 8th time. It's during those trials and tribulations within the MA, that we get knocked down within our learning curve, that we fight to get up, no matter what, dusting off the dust. Dai-Soke NEVER EVER NOT ONCE ever gave up on me. Was that because I represented a steady cash flow, and nothing more. No! His patience was far beyond that of a normal CI. If one way wouldn't reach me, he'd show me another way, and so on and so forth until I had an "AHA" moment. Sometimes I was quick, while others, I was slower than molasses on a freezing day or night. Because of the way Dai-Soke was, I emulated his teaching ways to the Nth degree, still to this day. Albeit, intertwined with my own methods of teaching. I suppose there's something to that. Nonetheless, not everyone can be a pilot or a steamfitter or a doctor or NFL player or whatever; everyone with his own talents; to each his own!! Yes AND No! Why? The summation of 'why' is to the summation of 'because'!! Yes, because those type of students do exist. No, because in spite of myself and/or the student, I never give up on a student, and I will not allow a student to give up on themselves. At the end of the day, after all's been exhausted by either parties, the student might painfully make that decision to walk off the floor; that I can't stop, and that is within the student to decide. My floor is always open; welcoming them back when it fits them to do so. Sometimes, one can lead a horse to water, but getting the horse to drink the water, well, that's another thing. One, to me, is not harder than the other, and it's the job, imho, of the CI to do all that it takes, and then some, to help the student to reach each and every "AHA" moment. Alas, despite the consistent efforts on both parties, a CI, at times, must re-invent teaching methodologies/ideologies tailored to the individual student. It's my responsibility to teach, and the students responsibility to learn. However, the fault isn't always that of the student...not at all!! It's very quite possible that the entire fault belongs to the CI, and the CI alone!! We CI's easily place the fault somewhere else, time and time again, when all they have to do is look into the mirror. That, which is looking back at you in that reflection, might be the sole reason as to why the/that student just isn't getting it. After all, maybe the CI, just isn't getting it...getting it across to the student so that the student can understand, and then learn. Say what you mean, and mean what you say. I once did a seminar with a group of CI's. The title of the Seminar was..."Say what you mean, and mean what you say!!" To highlight the title, I had, in front of me, a small table. On the small table, I had 8 loaves of bread, 4 large jars of peanut butter and jelly, each, 6 rolls of paper towels, and one regular kitchen knife. Over the next hour or so, we, as a group, never ever once built one PB&J sandwich; not one!! We went through everything, made one big gigantic mess!! I played the role of a 2 year old learning to make his very first PB&J sandwich!! All the CI's had to do was teach me how to make a PB&J sandwich. Not hard, not difficult; quite simply. After all, it's just a PB&J; and every single CI at the seminar claimed they all had made their share of PB&J sandwiches their entire lives. So, it should be very easy to teach this 2 year old how to make one...right? Huh!! Hardest thing they ever did, trust me!! Sure, we had fun...I know I did!! One doesn't really know just how many steps are involved in making a PB&J sandwich...the nomenclature of making a PB&J sandwich is mind-boggling, to say the least. Why couldn't this 2 year old make a simple staple of a sandwich?? Was the fault of the 2 year old?? NO!! The fault lied within those adults...those CI's...those highly skilled masters on and off the floor...couldn't properly instruct a 2 year old to make a PB&J sandwich!!!!! Btw, I play a 2 year old to the Nth degree and then some!! Preconceived Notions; with the 2 year old, there wasn't any!! However, with these educated adults, who've been teaching the MA for quite some time, there was plenty. All that 2 year old expected was that a room full of smart adults could TEACH that easily impressionable tot how to make a PB&J sandwich!! It became quite evident that the adults' task was more daunting than they ever realized!! Panic began to set because they were frustrated and slowly becoming agitated. I don't know why. All they had to do was instruct one simple task. Not like they were teaching nuclear physics or something like that...it was a PB&J sandwich!! How hard can that be?? Apparently, it was very hard!! The 2 year old was just as an emotional wreck as the CI's!! There was no rhythm...no reason for it, and completely unnecessary!! It was evident that too many cooks spoil the pot. These experts of the MA, stumbled and struggled in ways they hadn't even imagined. Why? They couldn't convey proper instructions that could be understood and followed by a 2 year old. Trust me, 2 year old's are not dumb, they're unlearned, and that's it. Kind of like MA students. We, CI's are trying to get our students to make this enjoyable, eatable, delicious, and very nice looking PB&J sandwich...BUT WE'RE NOT BEING EXACTING IN OUR INSTRUCTIONS!! And then we wonder why the student just isn't getting it...yet!! So, just whose fault is it, after all?!? It might be both, or it might be one or the other, but that answer must be exact and honest, with no hearsay and/or conjecture; either it's 100% true or it's not!! EDIT: Spelling

Solid post, and I wholeheartedly agree with you!! Btw, I'd love to see Romo in ANOTHER UNIFORM; the sooner the better, imho!!!!

Thanks, Danielle!! Thank you for the questions. Things just cost a lot, I suppose, especially medical. However, let the experts explain the differences between the two, other than me... A Nuclear Stress Test is... http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/nuclear-stress-test/basics/definition/PRC-20012978 http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/nuclear-stress-test/basics/why-its-done/prc-20012978 http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/nuclear-stress-test/basics/risks/prc-20012978 On an average, this test takes about 3-5 hours to complete. The Radioactive Chemicals cost $250, just for the chemicals. EKG Stress Test is... http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/exercise-electrocardiogram#4 On an average, this test takes about 15-30 minutes to complete. One gives a much more clearer picture, or idea, of how ones heart is doing, than the other!! One's a Rolls Royce, while the other is not!! The sooner I take one or the other, the better. Especially after I've JUST had an Cardiac Inversion...shocking the heart. Waiting isn't advisable, but I've no money tree in my back yard, and my new insurance, well, has little to be desired. Right now, I'm waiting to see what type of payment plans my Cardiologists' office has: Cardiologist isn't involved with financials, per his office staff. Ahem, he's the doctor, AND it's his practice!! My fingers are crossed. Cardiologists office called while I was writing this post. Now, the NST [Nuclear Stress Test] is $700.00, including the chemicals. Good news, being it's not the $5,000, as I was lead to believe, at first. Still, his office has to get with my insurance, oh what fun!! Nonetheless, a payment plan has to be decided upon, as well as the down payment.

I wholeheartedly concur with you!! Brady proved himself to me that exactly same thing, it's not over as long as he's on the field: the most dangerous QB in the NFL!! I wonder if he'll consider retiring while he's on top of the world; what a way to end ones career...and the best in the game ever!!??

Thanks, JR; means everything to me!! Btw, and if I could talk Patrick into it, I'd award you an award for being the first to read that lllooooonnnnnggggggg post of mine!!!

How big are your sleeves? That way I can guess how many tricks you have up them. Rofl...just regular sleeves.

Super Bowl 51 is in the books...officially!! SB 51 was full of many firsts!! Before the game, former President George H. W. Bush performed the coin toss alongside his wife, Barbara...it was great to see them both doing well, and out of the hospital. 3 quarter of absolute boredom, followed by 1 quarter of on-the-edge-of-the-seat excitement, then followed by a very abrupt OT. The Falcons, up to the 4th quarter, dominated the game. Brady rained 1 interception, and with that one rain drop, the Falcons took advantage, as they should. The Patriots didn't look like themselves at all; not even close!! I, like millions of fans, thought that that game would be a drag out back and forth dog fight, but that wasn't to be. Falcons took control and more control and even more control over the game until I finally thought that something else has to be far much better on TV to watch then this Super Bowl. 1st quarter ended with the score 0-0; no big deal. 2nd quarter was a total different animal. Brady unraveled, or so it seems!! Falcons took over!! 21-3 at halftime in the Falcons favor!! What's going on!! This game reminded me of when the Seahawks demolished the Broncos during SB 49 with a score of 48-3. I thought to myself, is this going to be history repeating itself. I hope not because I wanted to see a great game. At the moment, the game was a let down. However, I hung around! I was glad that I had!! WOW oh WOW oh WOW!! The WOW oh WOW was the halftime show!! Lady Gaga proved her dominance with her exciting and electric filled show...a shorter version of her normal shows. Her show started with her ON THE ROOF OF THE NRG STADIUM!! Then she was lowered to a tall stations, and then eventually to the stage. While Prince is considered having the #1 halftime show of them all, I sincerely believe that Lady Gaga blew him away to emerge the spot that Prince once, respectfully deserved, held. It was thought that Lady Gaga would use that worldwide stage to let her political opinions be known. But that never ever happened. She put on the halftime show of halftime shows, and earned with me, more respect for her artistry, and for herself. WAY TO GO LADY GAGA!! Even though my WOW oh WOW was a bit premature, game wise, life slowly came back into Brady and the Patriots. In the 3rd quarter, the Falcons scoring 7 points, and the Patriots scoring 6 points...score was now... with just over 8 minutes remaining in the 3rd quarter, the Patriots now trailed by 25 points...appearing that the Falcons would be firmly in the drivers seat. With that the Patriots answered back with a TD, but their extra-point kick missed when the ball hit the right goal post, and the 3rd quarter ended with the Falcons 28...Patriots 10. 4th quarter would end up being the Patriots swan song. Brady attacked!! And attacked!! And attacked, even more so!! But the Falcons were determined to stop the Patriots ability in closing the once 25 point deficit. The clock was against the Patriots, but that deter Brady and company in doing what they do the best...come back, and come back they did. Brady marched...Falcons didn't!! Falcons didn't score any points in the 4th quarter, and that, my friends, saved the Patriots. With the clock ticking away, and Patriots scored and scored, and scored 19 unanswered points. Then came the 2-minute warning!! Patriots hit pay dirt with a TD. But even with that last regulation TD for the Patriots, and an extra point kick would've still not been enough to catch up to the stalled Falcons. The score, Falcons 28, the Patriots 26; Patriots need a 2 point conversion to tie the game, and send them to OT. Conversion made!! But there was still enough time for the Falcons to try to drive close enough for a field goal. NOPE!! The Falcons failed to do so. First Super Bowl OT game ever!! Patriots won the coin toss, and elected to receive the ball. Brady threw 4 complete passes...one run...an incomplete pass, which drew a pass interference call, allowing the Patriots first-and-goal...another incomplete pass in the end zone that was nearly picked off by the Falcons...one pitch...and the Falcons were there to stop the run, but with tenacity, and determination, the ball breached the goal line, giving the Patriots, and Brady, their 5th SB ring. Brady dropped to his knees, overwhelmed, head in hands, crying!! Final score of SB 51...Patriots 34..Falcons 28!! To the Falcons...I tip my hat to them without reservations...they fought but were out fought by the most dangerous QB in the NFL. Falcons have a talented and young team; they'll be back in the playoffs next year, and who knows, maybe they'll win SB52 in Minnesota next year. This win gave Brady his 5th SB Ring and his 4th SB MVP!! Not bad for a career!! NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell, did shake hands with Tom Brady at the conclusion of the game, however, this was done on the field and not on the podium in front of the world. Congratulations to the entire Patriots organization as well as its fans; well deserved win!! GO COWBOYS!!

First let me welcome you to KF. First and foremost instructors are human. This means we are not perfect and we have bad days just like our students and everyone else. I can't comment on your Sensei's behavior because I do not know him. I am sure he has reasons for doing what he does in class and ultimately it is his class. I would ask to speak with him privately after class and away from the other students. There is nothing wrong with asking your Sensei questions. Whether he gives you the answers you want to hear or not is up to him. If you are not happy with the instruction or the way the class is ran you have a few options. You can find another school, you can speak with him and see if that solves things or you can gut it out. I understand what you have said of his actions but you must understand that there are three sides to every story. Yours, his and the truth. I am not saying that you are lying so please don't take it that way but you are only giving your side of the story. I am sure he has his. Bottom line is if you are not happy with the instruction you should talk to him or find another school. Other than that I am hesitant to speak about his behavior because I don't know his side or his reasons for doing what you have described. I have an open door policy, within reason. If a student is upset with something that has happened or with me they are free to talk to me about it. However and again, that does not mean they will get the answers they are looking for nor the reaction they were looking for. Instructors do things for a reason. Take your testing for an example. In my mind I can see this as a test within itself. He tested you once and then asked you to retest at camp. This could've been to test your convictions, maturity, personality, demeanor and mental state. If you would have gripped about retesting you would have failed immediately with me. This is just an example of looking at things another way. I will say this... most students (younger) think that they should progress faster and want everything divulged to them right now. I should have learned this Kata by now, I should be higher than this student because I know more or have more skills or have been here longer than them. I am not saying this is your attitude but being around people like this can tend to alter our way of thinking. If you trust him then follow his lead and he will teach you what he feels you can handle or what is consistent with your grade and progress. If you do not trust him, leave. Some arts teach a ton of Kata and old school guys like me feel that you should become proficient with the ones you have learned before being able to learn more. Maybe he is allowing students to become proficient with the Kata already taught before throwing more into the mix. Maybe he is not teaching the next Kata because he doesn't feel that his students or the Gokyu in particular has taken it seriously and trained outside of class. Keep in mind that the old ways were to show the kata to a student a few times and allow them to work on it on their own. Periodically the instructor will have the class perform the Kata and if no progress has been made he will not move them past that Kata. At this point it is up to the student to find out what the teacher wants to see. In today's society most students want a teacher that will hold their hand and guide them every step of their journey. This is not doing the student any good because they never develop their own interpretations. A good student trains in class and trains more outside of class. This is, at least for me, the way I can tell how serious a student is. If they do not take the time to practice what I have taught them I quickly realize they are wasting my time with them and I tell them to leave until they are ready to take it seriously. My point is there are a myriad of reasons. Until you speak with him you are guessing just like I am. Talk to your Sensei. First off, welcome to KF, matt23; glad that you're here!! Most solid post!! I only want to reiterate one thing...he's the CI, and how he conducts his affairs on the floor is for him to decide alone. Any misgivings that you might feel, whether warranted or not, are yours alone, and you've that right to question your Sensei across the board. Whether you stay or whether you go, is entirely up to you!! Have you sat down with your CI to have a heart to heart discussion about your concerns?? If not, then at least give him that opportunity. If he refuses to sit down calmly as well as rationally with you, that, to me, is a sign for me it's time to go!! Be respectful, even if he refuses to do so, be that positive example. Remember, just because someone's a human being, it doesn't mean that they know how to act like a human being. Good luck!! Hang in there!!

WARNING**This is a long post, but necessary in its length. Weight = 272lbs Well, I had my Cardio Inversion on January 30, 2017!! My wife, sister, and myself arrived at the hospital at 0600. I checked in, made my down payment, and we sat awaiting to be called by the nurse. 30 minutes later, my name was called; man oh man was I scared of the unknown. I was ushered into a large filled room with many hospital beds, each separated by curtains. I was given a gown, but I only had to take off my shirt and shoes, which is always a relieve because those hospital gowns are quite humbling on ones backside, but I was spared of that walk of shame because I still had on my sweats. Oh yeah, the night before I had to take a very distinctive type of shower, and had to repeat that very same shower at 0400; I was super, super clean. No deodorant and no cologne allowed. Why? I could catch on fire!! Of course, nothing but water after 2200, and only a sip of water in the morning. I was not able to take any of my medication, prescription or over the counter because it could affect the anesthesia. Back to that large filled room. I was prepped for the procedure, and that prepping took an solid hour. I was probed and poked and taped and shaved, and I was feeling quite alone, even though I had 3 nurses tending to me and my every need. Then came the IV!! It took all 3 of them to put the IV in. Left arm first!! First nurse said my vein rolled; she couldn't hit it. Second nurse said my vein rolled again!! So, the second nurse tried my right arm with the same results; my vein rolled there too. Three times is a charm!! Third nurse, on my right arm, hit the vein immediately; she had skills!! Then they flush out the line with saline solution; it was a bit cold. I had more wires connected to me than my apartment has; they were everywhere. Last thing they attached to me were the paddles used in the Cardiac Inversion; they're about 5 inches long and about 3 inches wide, and thick. They wheel me into the operating room now!! My anxiety was peeking!! I wanted to see my wife so very much, but I knew that wasn't a possibility, so I never asked, I just thought about her and the kids a lot. We wait for Dr. Fernandes, my Cardiologist!! It's almost 0730!! "Dr. Fernandes is here" says nurse #2. All 3 nurses are still with me! I'm the only Cardiac Inversion scheduled for that day. The hospital averages 5 Cardiac Inversions daily, and have been performing them ever since the procedure was offered. Dr. Fernandes walks into the operating room. Says his salutations to the nurses and to me. He asks me... "How you doing Mr. Mitcham this fine morning?" "I'm doing great!" I say. "And you Dr. Fernandes?", I add. "Great, thanks!" he says. "You ready to get this over with?" he asks. "Let's rock and roll. The sooner the better!!" I say. With that, Dr. Fernandes flips through my chart, then he gives the nurses his instructions, and these instructions include the anesthesia order. No one can administer any type of anesthesia without the doctors permission. Anesthesia is given through my IV. It's now 0732. The very colorful curtains directly in front of me starts to wave from side to side, and with every second that passes, that curtain waves from side to side more and more and... 0733...I'm out!! 0800...Dr. Fernandes speaks to my wife and sister to inform them that the procedure was without any complications and that I'm in post-op, doing just fine. 0930...Dr. Fernandes, and the nurses, are having trouble waking me up. I mean, I'm out like a light. Btw, one doesn't dream under anesthesia, or at least I didn't. 0935...Dr. Fernandes orders one of the nurses to go get my wife and sister. 0940...I'm still not awake!! According to my sister, it took Dr. Fernandes, the 3 nurses, my wife and my sister to all shake me, while calling out my name over and over. 0941...I'm awake!! Finally!! What woke me up, according to nurse #3, which is the Charge Nurse, says they believe that when my sister violently shook my left foot, that that awakened me. Better late than never!! I'm giving some orange juice; first thing of substance all morning. Once the cobwebs are cleared from my head, I ask to speak to the doctor. Minutes later he enters the post-op room that I'm in; which is the very same room as the pre-op room. . We have a short and direct, yet, comforting discussion between the doctor, my wife, sister, and myself; conversation lasts all of 3 minutes. According to Dr. Fernandes, everything went as expected. My Afib is gone!! However, just because my Afib is gone, for now, it doesn't mean that it'll never return. The chance is still there, and will always be there because of family history, and more importantly, having that I've had Afib, it can return with a higher chance of returning. Boo on that chance. Dr. Fernandes says that he usually works up the joules slowly at 200 joules, and this is why most Cardiac Inversion patients get 3 shocks to the heart. But, having looked at my charts much more closer, he opts to shock my heart only once with 360 joules. With that one shock, my heart went back to Normal Sinus Rhythm (NSR); in which he was very pleased with. 1030...After I stand up, and I walk a few feet without falling, I'm discharged. 1100...I'm home after my sister drove me home, while my wife follows us. Keep up my diet...keep up my exercises...and whatever else. DO NOT FALL BACK INTO BAD HABITS AGAIN!! Had a Nuclear Stress Test scheduled for today, but I had to cancel it. Why? That procedure costs $5,000!! That's why!! However, I've asked Dr. Fernandes' office to ask him if I can do the EKG Stress Test instead; that test only costs $200-$300. At first he thought I couldn't do the EKG Stress Test because of my right leg being tingling and numb 24/7. But shoot, I'm on a Treadmill 6 times a week for 25 minutes with the highest incline of 15.0; I can do an EKG Stress Test. I had one back in 2000 in Tulsa, OK!! Before the Cardiac Inversion, when I'm at the gym, I huff and puff trying to get through the StairMaster for the 30 minutes. Nowadays, since the Cardiac Inversion, I no longer huff and puff, and have done 35 minutes on the StairMaster, going from level 4 to level 5, with the last 5 minutes on level 6. Before the Cardiac Inversion I went from level 1 to level 4, and that was it. Only thing bothers me now is that my thigh muscles hurt, which means, more stretching. My quality of life is slowly improving. I just have to pace myself so that I don't have a heart attack. With the Afib gone, it would suck to die from having a heart attack for whatever the reason. Moderation is what the doctor orders!!