karate...more than just something to do.

Those who know me know I enjoy karate. Shotokan to be exact. I enjoy the physical exercise, camaraderie among participants and general sense of well being that it promotes. But there is more to it than that. There is a mental and almost spiritual component to it. You are able to check your mental cares at the door and relax for an hour or more. We all need that downtime. Without some sort of mental/meditative relaxation your mind gets all confounded. Karate is physical yes, but you concentrate on it much like you would reading, crossword puzzles or other things that challenge the mind. You mentally and physically fight with your body and mind to conform them into what you are trying to do. I didn't get this as a Yellow or Orange belt. Only after returning to karate after a three or four year absence did I finally as a Green belt begin to understand just how relaxing it can be.

Dojo Kun:
Seek Perfection of Character
Be Faithful
Endeavour
Respect Others
Refrain from Violent Behavior

After my last belt test I had to do a very introspective look. I failed to execute my Kata perfectly and was only awarded a half kyu...I was grateful for the half kyu, but saddened by the fact I did not achieve my goal. Then after class the next week, while I was still rather despondent about it, I began to think on the principals of karate. My mistake cost me a half kyu, but has caused me to seek to enjoy the journey more. I must seek to perfect my technique, myself and all the other things that karate strives to teach. Yes it will take me a little while longer reach my goal of black belt, but I am thankful I am a brown belt who has learn a few lessons about life and karate all from a few mistakes.
What breaks you makes you stronger.
k

Love in any Language.

I know I don't say it as often as I need to to those whom I love. I love you is just three words, but sincerely it means the world. I wish there was an easier way to convey it...but sometimes the words just get in the way. We say those three words time and time again. Our society has worn them out in song and poem. A lot of the time it is like you just say it...like you would "hello" or "goodbye". Say it today and follow it up with more than just a word...you may not have tomorrow to say it again.
I was just pondering that today. Guess I just wanted those who know that I love them as friends and family that you do mean more to me than just three little words.
The Bible points out that no great love has a man for another than if he would lay down his life for that person. Not saying we need to step in the way of a speeding bullet, but we need to give of ourselves in a way that is not self serving. Loving your neighbor as yourself is also pointed out...how can you not love yourself...love your neighbor that deep. Even moreso we love our friends and family...I hope to be able to convey that this week in some way. By doing these things we show that we love God even more....He loved us first.
K