ninjanurse

I would inscribe it as it may become a cherished memory of his and he may experience the same joy everytime he opens it and reads the inscription-especially if he means that much to you.

I have a more positive outlook on negative events in my life. I can better control my sometimes out-of-control temper. I am less quick to judge others. I have more self-confidence and self-control. I better appreciate the little things in life. There are a ton more thing I can think of but these are the first that came to mind.

Reaching my first black belt was as Telsun said, an anti-climax, just another step, but....since that time I have had a change of heart-literally! Studying under another teacher who challenged me mentally and physically...and spiritually, helped me to realize that fears can be overcome, all things are possible if you really want them, and you can change yourself for the better. Black belt became the first of many personal "challenges" , yes still another "rung on the ladder" but a meaningful one. Each dan level I reach has with it a new set of personal challenges- both physical and mental- that allow me to grow as a martial artist and a person. Determination, humility, understanding, creativity, open-mindedness, compassion...all things that are talked about on the road to BB, but are often not discovered until you place that BB around your waist and suddenly realize that you have accomplished something that many others never will, and that those that are on their own journey are watching your every move, wanting to follow in your footsteps in order to accomplish what you already have. It is a big responsibility. A truely humbling experience, but one that carries with it a certain satisfaction that only you can experience.

We have a class requirement rather than time requirement at the present, but it usually works out to be 3-4 months at lower levels, 5-6 at higher. There is going to be a change though: 3 months between each belt white-blue, 6 months between blue-black, with the addition of an additional belt rank of Sr. red belt. It all totals 36 months-if you test on time.

Honor=pay respect to Anything I respect, I honor. Respect is earned, not demanded. Therefore honor is not blind submission, it is given willfully.

Welcome!

Welcome!

Hello and welcome!

It depends on the school or association. My old school had 12 gups, new school has 10 for adults, 12 for kids-and they are about to change it. It doesn't matter to me either way.

In my old school you trained without a belt for the first 3-4 lessons. You then "tested" for the white belt by demonstrating basic techniques and school ettiquette. No charge-Just a way to introduce them to goal setting.

We had a 3 day test that included all curriculm, a written exam, and several hours of conditioning. It was the greatest experience of my life!

Some of the greatest masters are unknown to the world because they are true to the principles they teach-one being humility. (Do not take this to mean that if you are a known practictioner or master you are not a humble person)

There is a place for full contact in training, as most posters have stated, as long as the skill level of the participants is appropriate. I also agree with TJS about the cause/effect learning curve too! I personally have used this theory to assist my training when I was having difficulty blocking certain tech's to the body. I just didn't wear a chest protector for a while and it didn't take long before I was blocking and evading properly ! Not smart, but effective!

Ditto!

TKD Kung Fu

I studied Chuck Norris' system under the UFAF in the late 70's. I don't think it was CKD then, just TSD-but I could be wrong. This is were I got my passion for the MA's from. I was just a teen-made it to green belt before I moved away.

Welcome!!!!

Hello!!

I believe "5 animals" refer to a Northern Shao Lin style of kung fu, one of which is called Nam Pai Chuan. They base their style on 5 animals. I do not know them off hand but they can be easily found on the internet.

No, I am ashamed of myself . If I have let down my fellow martial artists I am truely sorry. Can you forgive me Fireka?

Sure! It's true!!!!

Sorry, can't relate. My feet do not sweat nor do they ever smell. Just lucky I guess!!!!

Welcome back!!!!

Hello!