Blog Feed: Martialing Art

30 Poems in 30 Days!

Published on 2013-04-30 14:51:16

Sometimes, maybe often, and probably more than I should, I wonder why I bother.  I find myself in an over dramatic fatalistic abyss where nothing matters or changes.  And it is harder than I like, to climb up and out. … Continue reading ͛

Haiku Me

Published on 2013-04-30 07:18:09

One of our tenets at the academy is perseverance.  If your board doesn’t break the first time, keep trying! Finishing the NaPoWriMo Poetry challenge!  30 poems in 30 days.  #28 and #29 Wrong Way I fell asleep at the wheel ran … Contin

A Strong Finish

Published on 2013-04-28 22:10:32

So between work and illness, I haven’t been posting.  But I have been doing my best to scribble down some lines whenever possible.  Only two days left in the 30 poems in 30 days challenge. Below are poems 22 – … Continue reading &

Triolet

Published on 2013-04-23 20:54:30

Today’s challenge from NaPoWriMo (30 poems in 30 days) was to write a triolet. New to me – a triolet is an eight line poem. All lines are 8 syllables (iambic tetrameter) with repeated lines and a rhyme scheme of … Continue reading &

Behind in the Count (And Poems 17, 18, 19)

Published on 2013-04-22 23:45:13

I woke with a chill and sore throat. Lunches, sit ups, stretches, three  ibuprofen and a half pot of coffee later, I thought I might live through the morning.  Sometimes you push through. I had an energetic group of twenty … Continue reading

Injustice

Published on 2013-04-20 06:55:11

Injustice My morning meditation interrupted by heroes saving an imaginary world “It’s not even six am.” But his attention is elsewhere And even I am almost sucked into the screen Their heart ache profound, journeys epic, movements c

Loop

Published on 2013-04-19 21:40:03

Loop Sit quietly Relish the warmth Tilt towards the light Listen to the squirrels chatter the birds sing, the insects hum, and the crickets communion Until the playback ends And I have to hit restart Poem # 16 for the … Continue reading →

Halfway Mark

Published on 2013-04-18 23:36:13

I had a deja vu moment in class the other day.  We had circled and were going around, taking turns, calling out exercises.  I was transported back to my first day – when I could not think of a stretch … Continue reading →

Mid Week Hurdle

Published on 2013-04-17 07:21:38

Mid Week Hurdle I had been drinking cheap ass canned grounds for over a week so when he came carrying Starbucks it was the perfect peace offering not easy to forgive harder yet forgetting but some days, I’m afraid I’d … Continue rea

Stretch

Published on 2013-04-16 23:17:26

Recommitting myself to exercise and increasing my flexibility.  Sometimes we get stuck in a rut and must switch it up. We need to keep exploring and challenging ourselves.  And of course, practice! Poem #13 for the NaPoWriMo challenge! (Inspired

The World Needs More Martial Artists (Assignment Pantun)

Published on 2013-04-15 23:33:05

Watching the news out of Boston tonight, I can’t help but reflect on our Grandmaster’s directive:  Love each other.  Without love, there is trouble.  Be kind.  Smile.  What you do, how you are impacts others. Poem #12 is again a R

Superhero Prompt

Published on 2013-04-14 21:59:43

Poem #11 was written with the suggestion from the NaPoWriMo site.  The idea being to take the identity of a superhero.  Thanks to my son Dominic for assisting with the haiku. Green Lantern Serve throughout the stars There are many … Continue

Angst and Attitude

Published on 2013-04-14 02:47:34

One of our goals as martial arts instructors is to help our students work through the bad days. Attitude is everything!  Fake it ‘til you make it. It works surprisingly well. Exercise assists too!   And we accomplish so much … Continue read

Next Door this Morning

Published on 2013-04-13 08:02:44

 I always discover something when I take a moment to breathe, drink my coffee and watch the neighborhood in the morning.  Poem #9 for the NaPoWriMo Challenge! There Goes the Neighborhood Mother Robin puffing out her chest, Complained at length R

Wake Up!

Published on 2013-04-13 04:48:39

4:10 a.m. Beep beep beep Someone remembered Beep beep beep To set Beep beep beep Their alarm Beep beep beep But then Beep beep beep Forgot where Beep beep beep They hid Beep beep beep The phone Poem # 8 … Continue reading →

Another Reason to Love TKD

Published on 2013-04-12 20:59:09

When it is cold and raining, we can play inside!   Poem #7 for the NaPoWriMo 30 poems in 30 days challenge – inspiration from the Lacrosse home opener.   Spring Sport a frozen field gray skies shimmer, blue lips shout, umbrella … Cont

Uncarbonated

Published on 2013-04-12 13:14:55

Reminding myself today how important attitude is everywhere – when we teach, as we train, when we practice, and as we interact with others.  A little happiness goes a long way, even if things don’t go precisely as we want … Continu

Tanka

Published on 2013-04-11 14:56:32

Poem #5 for the NaPoWriMo challenge.  (Still playing catch up!)  Inspiration for this poem comes from NaPoWriMo site.  A tanka is a syllable based five line poem (5, 7, 5, 7, 7).  It originated in Japan.  Another great thing about … Contin

Over My Shoulder

Published on 2013-04-11 09:34:30

Part of our journey as martial artists is learning how to be more present, more aware of the here and now.  Take stock of your stances.  Understand the why’s of your movements.  Look where you are going before the turn.  … Continue re

Centered

Published on 2013-04-11 00:04:35

I sit focus breathe letting go a meditation Poem #3 for NaPoWriMo challenge! (Still playing catch up but making progress.) Bonus points as the Weekly Writing Challenge at the daily post was to write a poem and play with space. … Continue readin

Almost Morning

Published on 2013-04-10 23:32:50

Coffee bitter wake up call fog lifting, light creating daily addiction Second poem for the NaPoWriMo 30 poems in 30 days challenge. Trying for two or three poems a day until I catch up! 

Never Too Late

Published on 2013-04-10 11:46:39

Optional (or April Fool’s) Watch from the window Cars failing to slow Making their own rules Red meaning go. from 4/1/13 I hear at our academy, so many individuals lament not beginning their training sooner. We feel so much better, when …

Everyday Epic (A Few Days Off)

Published on 2013-03-31 10:14:06

Everyday Epic Shake off the covers. Eyes open, feet to the floor. A morning’s triumph. Whenever I find myself low, it is usually attributable to something I’m not doing.  I’ve been practicing but not training. Giving into boredom a

Steering

Published on 2013-03-30 20:28:40

Satan shows up and offers me a ride to work. He had a “feeling” that my car wouldn’t start. I regard him with skepticism but am already late and although the sun is out, it would be a long, cold … Continue reading →

Snow, Spirit and Self Control

Published on 2013-03-02 21:56:26

My Sabonim shared a story this week. Like many of us, he spent the greater part of Wednesday morning shoveling. (And I can personally attest, it was wet, heavy snow.) Finishing, he felt that euphoric glow of a job well … Continue reading →

Breaking

Published on 2013-02-23 21:16:41

We use it as a metaphor for taking ourselves to the next level.  We break through the boards the same way we face daily challenges or unexpected obstacles in our lives. We breathe. We practice. We persevere. We may not … Continue reading ͛

Closed

Published on 2013-02-15 22:56:23

Entering the class room ready to teach but find the lecture hall all wrong for my program. There is no room to interact with cramped seats rising in a semicircle around a small podium. Eyelids fluttering shut. I lift them … Continue reading 

Why We Do What We Do

Published on 2013-02-10 00:12:09

It is the same for most demonstrations. Lots of work for a brief performance. Some experiences are worth the sacrifice. We should be looking for those things that compel us to be better than we believed.

What are you going to do? Teaching Girls

Published on 2013-02-02 22:17:52

I met with a new student today. Just six, she was excited to be at the school, exuberant during all the drills and mad for martial arts in general.  Big sis at 13 however, was reluctant.  But as I was … Continue reading →

A Work in Progress

Published on 2013-01-26 19:26:15

Starting over Gives you an edge. Knowing where the trees Have been felled Makes it easier To plot a course around them or perhaps, Incentive to pack your ax. (from On the Way to Ei Dan Bo) January has been an … Continue reading →

Someone is Listening (Revisiting the Legend of the Dan-Gun)

Published on 2013-01-19 07:17:54

As teachers, parents and even friends it is always gratifying to find someone listening.  This past week at our belt promotion one of our young students repeated the following story which I had told maybe twice in class. It provides … Continue

Unresolved

Published on 2013-01-12 06:56:11

Counting down A Ball drops As Calendars keep Moving forward Aspirations multiply while Goals discuss and Priorities debate Means and ends. The bells ringing in the new year have quieted.  I have my list. (Which includes a weekly post here). …

A Holiday Card

Published on 2013-01-01 01:19:35

Hemingway came to comment on my progress. Drawn to the high, he visits when I write and drink at the same time. How are you holding up, Sport? And he always calls me ‘Sport’, A simultaneous compliment and criticism. “I’m … Continue

Holiday Cheer from Martialing Art!

Published on 2012-12-26 09:07:53

Ninjabread Battle in Christmas Tree Forest! Happy Holidays!

Something to Play With

Published on 2012-12-19 08:42:18

Everyone grows up. It caught my attention in their holiday wish lists: Clothing (gift card, they don’t trust my fashion sense), Music (gift card, nobody listens to cd’s), Outings (movie, bowling, skating gift cards – they want to do

Making It My Own

Published on 2012-12-14 21:40:16

Running. Sparring. Kicking. Punching. All the forms.  Ho Shin Sul (Self Defense). Ground defense. Hand techniques. Offensive and Defensive movements in Korean. A practiced break turned into a surprise break. These are only some of the things asked o

A Left Turn

Published on 2012-12-09 07:44:31

I went the wrong direction Through the park After cursing my Lack of attention Readjusted my bearings To get there from here When I noticed the birds brunch Eight cardinals Meeting for breakfast The males vibrant against the grass Their … Conti

Done!

Published on 2012-12-06 06:10:23

Part of my martial arts journey has been learning to deal with ongoing projects.  Some things are never finished. It upsets my sense or order.  I want to close the file.  Move on to the next case. I’m practicing breaking … Continue rea

yawns

Published on 2012-11-28 05:56:27

The cold and dark has temporarily garaged my bike. I’ve been teaching almost everyday, but struggling to get into class myself. Every morning I’ve been a little more tired. Yesterday, my Sabonim instructed me, in front a group of students

Back Indoors

Published on 2012-11-24 07:34:58

A three month side project, extended to six, on poetry and meditation has kept me from this space.  Sometimes you need to switch it up. Workouts, writing, and teaching techniques all occasionally require an overhaul, a new perspective and some fres

An Assistant to the Executive Producer

Published on 2012-05-16 14:27:32

He gave me the script for The Surface, admitting only that he owned the rights, and requested thoughts. It was a little outside the scope of our usual interaction.  Typically, I brought things for him to read. Pleased he valued my opinion, I went home and began reading. Now, there are some stories you read and [...]

Push Up

Published on 2012-05-06 20:52:50

Training for Black Belt testing at the end of June. I’ve been attempting to complete 75 push ups a day.  Start with 50 in the morning.  Hope to get the others in class, but if I don’t, I do the remaining before bed. Felt good about it yesterday, when I had to do some heavy [...]

Maksagi and Mai tai’s

Published on 2012-04-15 14:09:48

Maksagi* is the Korean word for guarding stance. I went on vacation but still found myself in a constant guarded state. And as Mai tai’s are not an ideal solution now that I’m back at work, I’m putting  more effort into exercise. It’s not quite the same thing. *Maksagi is spelled differently everywhere I look [...]

World Poetry Day 2012

Published on 2012-03-21 22:40:26

Been thinking about poems all day.  What I like most about poetry, is that it is never wrong. I’ve included an old one I posted (for the martial artists) as part of a Post a Day challenge.  And then a new one from today.   Resistant Kindling (Assignment Haiku) Solid slice of strength. Violating nature’s law. The board [...]

Spring Fevers, Entropy and a Solid Front Snap Kick

Published on 2012-03-19 23:06:35

Standing room only crowds this evening at classes. They generate considerable energy but in less than a lost moment can dissolve into chaos. The trick is to find that equilibrium. The balancing act made trickier by an early spring.  The children were coming in from an alternate reality. It almost appeared that some had been [...]

Looking for the Sun

Published on 2012-03-16 04:18:12

Simpers and Sighs

Published on 2012-03-07 21:41:09

The sighs came from me. And they were not the relaxed, end of a good class type of sigh. They were more of an expression of exasperation and frustration. I have become accustomed to the young ladies who study at our academy.  They can be chatty and sometimes silly but they are always strong. I have [...]

Monday’s Moment of Meditation: Make Some Noise

Published on 2012-03-04 22:20:45

Sit down.  Cris-cross your legs.  Close your eyes. Take a nice deep breath in.  Let it out slowly. At the birthday party I ran on Saturday, I began by moving the group of twenty 5 and 6 year old’s around the room, setting the tone for following directions.  Up on their tip toes, they move [...]

Learning A New Song

Published on 2012-02-19 22:43:25

When I hear a song a time or two, I have the lyrics and melody. Not an excessively useful talent but you use what you have. Working on Gae Baek, my next form.  My brain stops working following the first 10 or so movements.  Reading the steps. (Not helpful.) Watching video after video, but everyone [...]

Front Desk Girl Warrior

Published on 2012-02-15 22:52:21

I read recently that the knife hand strike was meant to break through the skin and soft tissue, penetrating to the organs, which as a secondary move you could take with you on the way out. It is not typically what we teach the children.  I’m sure they would love it, but their parents might [...]

Happiness is a well placed elbow strike.

Published on 2012-02-02 22:53:07

Doing an elbow strike on the wavemaster (heavy bag) this afternoon, I rattled the right side of my brain. Literally.  It reverberated back and forth, until finally settling in its spot.  Dizzy and a little nauseous, I fleetingly wondered if I should sit down. I kept going because I like elbow strikes. It’s my favorite [...]

Please RSVP

Published on 2011-08-10 22:00:30

Working on a good size party.  170 guests.  Sit down dinner.  Name cards. Place settings.  Programs. They were given two months time to reply, prior to last weeks food ordering deadline.  But still today -two days before the event- I’m getting additions. Not sure if it’s a cultural thing, laziness or rudeness but I’m afraid [...]

Competition and Community

Published on 2011-08-09 22:23:53

Competed at the Hamnadang National Tournament last weekend. Convinced to take part for practice and experience.  And that was all good. But even more, I was looking for that sense of belonging.  Being a part of something large and exciting and dramatic. It was a fleeting feeling but good while it lasted.

Rekindling

Published on 2011-08-08 22:49:07

Haven’t been feeling well. Or writing well.  Every book read recently ends with a sad realistic fatalism which although tragic and beautiful does not do much to encourage. Forgot what I was about and missed more days and then decided to drop it all together. Started a new book today called The Thirteenth Tale by [...]

Sick Day

Published on 2011-08-02 21:37:47

Handling Disappointments

Published on 2011-08-01 21:46:53

We tell the students to persevere, not give up.  If you work for it, want it, and believe badly enough you will get there. But sometimes, things don’t go our way.  No matter how hard we work, how positive our thinking, or how much we planned. It is a part of life.  Learning to handle [...]

Required Responses

Published on 2011-07-31 21:23:26

I answer a multitude of emails at work.  Getting better at acknowledging everyone received – even if I can’t answer it. Because it’s bothersome to not hear back.  You don’t know if it’s been lost in the net. Or sent to spam. Or read and inadvertently forgotten. Or read and dismissed.  Then moved to trash. [...]

Nothing…and Everything

Published on 2011-07-30 22:12:43

The WordPress assignment was to think about nothing. Sitting quietly opens a flood of thoughts, feelings, things that require attention, and things that I would rather avoid. Directing my thoughts back to nothing difficult amid the noise but I keep trying.

Lighter

Published on 2011-07-29 20:53:04

Tried on everything in my closet for an upcoming party. Nothing fit right.  I’ve been doing well lately, with my eating, but not enough to make up for the heavy meals of winter. Trying to be patient. Stay the course. Add some extra exercises. Think lighter.

Looking Forward

Published on 2011-07-05 21:57:05

I was wondering where you were. It was a new white belt. I had been looking for something in the back closet and returning to my post out front, found him happy to see me. I was surprised.  It is typically one of the lead instructors they look to. I

Parades

Published on 2011-07-04 20:26:07

Two parades.  Lots of marketing.  Even more sunshine. And I saw someone I hadn’t seen in years, sitting with her family on the curb.  It’s a wonder where the time goes, how children change and adults try not to. The best thing about th

A Birthday Gift

Published on 2011-07-03 20:47:00

Trying not to listen to the pundits while sitting with Dad. They are unsettling, gloomy and depressing.  It’s hard to say whether they are alarmist or realistic, even harder to find the line between truth and bias. There are a vast array of pr

Summer Vacation

Published on 2011-07-02 18:43:21

Treating today like vacation (although this morning I did laundry and cleaned and then went to the grocery story – there are some things you can not, not do, and then I made rice krispy treats but I feel that’s justifiable vacation behavi

On the importance of movement

Published on 2011-07-01 22:33:52

After only ten days and four classes, they can not believe how good they feel. There’s no denying it is an extraordinary positive environment.  But mostly they needed to move. Some weren’t moving at all. Some in the wrong direction.  So

Computer Trouble

Published on 2011-06-30 20:40:13

No post yesterday.  First miss due to computer trouble. Writing at work today. Will try to make up tomorrow.

Staying Positive

Published on 2011-06-28 22:44:42

Heard everything in no’s today but was still trying to balance to everyone’s satisfaction. It’s impossible though to make everyone happy. Sometimes you need to focus on yourself. Laid off class with my eye injury.  Back to glasses

Blurry (Testing Reflections)

Published on 2011-06-27 23:22:06

So you were where you needed to be for the test. Yes, but then no.  That’s a fuzzy sort of curvy line. Spent the better part of today with one contact in; one eye clear, sharp, focused, and strong, the other eye blurry, clouded, weak but forgi

Wrinkled

Published on 2011-06-26 12:20:08

Many things keep us humble. Ironing reminds me of why I studied: so I wouldn’t have to iron. But some things, by chance or choice, are inescapable.  And it is deflating to be appraised, found lacking starch, or a picture perfect presentation.

Testing Day 2

Published on 2011-06-25 21:07:25

The aftermath is the most difficult part of the test. Letting go of all the things that went wrong.  Learning.  Staying positive.  Looking at what was good. And then we start the cycle again.

Testing Day 1

Published on 2011-06-24 22:29:10

Survived!! Feel wonderful. Now for ibuprofen, tiger balm and a hot compress for my eye for a disappointingly non tae kwon do injury.  Sleep. Tomorrow:  Breaking, more forms and ho shin sul.

How May I Help You?

Published on 2011-06-23 23:15:08

Smiles. Winks. Laughter. Light. Positive thought. Multiple tequila shots. Roses. Hearing. Constructive Criticism. Challenge. Energy. Understanding. A safe place.

Practice

Published on 2011-06-22 07:11:18

We tell the children they need to practice outside of class. It is a harder lesson for adults (myself included) when it seems like no time is our own. But now the test is upon us and it is either push forward or wait.  I used to believe that you mak

Time of Day

Published on 2011-06-21 07:27:26

Switching it up.  Again. Discovered that when I write in the evening, which translates to late night, all I can think about is getting done, getting it over, getting to bed. Now that it’s summer, my mornings are a little quieter, more my own,

Sent Home

Published on 2011-06-20 19:54:38

Sharp stabbing pains in my stomach sent me home early. Hoping it is food poisoning because I don’t have time to be sick. On the menu for the evening: Rest, Reading, Rest. No Food.

Count Down to Testing

Published on 2011-06-19 23:19:21

Felt better about the whole thing on Thursday. Missed class and practice Friday. Missed class and practice Saturday. No practice or exercise today, combined with a multiple dessert dinner. Wish I was testing with someone to motivate me – keep m

Rock Climbing (A Recapture)

Published on 2011-06-18 21:36:29

Linking to myself.  A recap for Father’s Day! Rock Climbing  

Comparisons

Published on 2011-06-17 23:19:15

It’s not supposed to be a competition. You go at your own pace.  Do your best.  Don’t worry about the others. Good advice.  But hard to follow. Because there are always judgments. And I want to be on the plus side.

Not Enough Hours in a Day

Published on 2011-06-16 22:35:11

Thought I had accomplished much today but came home to not being good enough. Need to stay focused on the positive.  Make my list.  Get done what I can. Prioritize and start again tomorrow. Don’t apologize for doing something for me. Testing

Progress

Published on 2011-06-15 22:52:07

Working on form. Added to my kicks. Push ups and more push ups. Practiced my offensive and defensive tactics. Feeling much better about the test.

Pushing Up

Published on 2011-06-14 22:14:14

Been working hard the last week and a half. 200 push ups through out today. Arms feel good. Working the kicks.  Knees not so good.  Trying not to overdo. But what feels best is my heart.  All it wants is exercise.

If you could live anywhere…

Published on 2011-06-13 22:38:23

Just me.  Books.  Writing Utensils.  Music. Visitors on Sunday. Maybe every other Sunday.

Pace or Push

Published on 2011-06-12 22:33:23

Do you ever hear those voices? – They seem to pick alternate ears for their hushed arguments. Pace:  She’s not young. Push:  She felt younger doing more. Pace:   Jumping, running, twisting and sometimes even bending make her knees ach

Not just another class

Published on 2011-06-11 22:37:32

It gets harder as you go along. And it should.  Otherwise it wouldn’t mean anything. Some use it as an excuse to stop training.  It’s not fun any more.  It’s too difficult. What are we teaching our children if we allow them to qu

Exuberance

Published on 2011-06-10 22:28:43

Was looking for inspiration, a little bit of hope and a topic to write about. Came across something I wrote when I began my job.  I was reminded why I started to journal, and why I keep at it. And I may print out a copy, so when the day doesn’

Last Day of School

Published on 2011-06-09 21:28:17

Excitement permeated the house. For this day only, everyone woke up – on their own – well before the alarm clocks went off. They are excited to finish and move up. Enjoying the freedom – even if it is for just a few months.

Time and Effort

Published on 2011-06-08 21:42:01

Trying to decide if the time and effort put into this project still has value. Wish I could be hovering above myself – see the big picture – so I could know what to do.

Hot

Published on 2011-06-08 21:37:02

I promised myself when my hands and feet were numb in April from the still bitter cold, that I would never complain about the warmth. But it is ridiculously hot. Everyone is sticky, cranky and tired. Sending them to cold showers and bed. Dreaming of

Becoming (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-06-06 22:44:59

On the back acre of my parents property, way back, past the big tree, down the ravine, over the bridge, across the stepping rocks, through the tall grass, and up the sledding hill there was a hidden gateway to a parallel universe.  It was never in e

Garage Sale Martial Arts Books

Published on 2011-06-05 21:48:43

Acquired a book on Kung Fu today for twenty five cents. It was written in 1977 by David Chow and Richard Spangler.  Excited by the history.  Interested to find some of our defenses are very similar to ones pictured. But then a chapter on the aspect

Looking for Inspiration

Published on 2011-06-04 22:08:21

Found some martial arts books at yard sales late this afternoon. Reading for fun and general learning.  Don’t know much outside of my own style.  But also hoping for encouragement.  Something to get me moving. For a dollar I bought Bruce Lee

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Published on 2011-06-03 22:04:22

Ridiculously tired.  And I missed class again. Need to step it up. But for right now, simply laying down.

Dinner Conversation

Published on 2011-06-02 23:08:32

Listen politely with nothing to say. Another skill to learn and practice. Making conversation. Would much rather script it.

Testing Jitters

Published on 2011-06-01 23:16:56

Color belt testing this week.  Spent considerable time calming nerves, reassuring and boosting confidence. Black belt testing is a little over two weeks away.  Would like to have someone spend considerable time calming my nerves, reassuring and boo

Sore

Published on 2011-05-31 22:54:35

Over did my work out. Felt like everything at the school was wrong. Came home to a disaster. Not sure three ibuprofen can cover it.

Please Remain Seated Until the Ride Comes to a Complete Stop (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-05-30 07:20:32

Meditation is learning to be present in the moment.  But now can be difficult. Stuck in the past or wanting what’s coming next, we miss out on today. I could swing for hours. Now, even a short spell back and forth makes me nauseous. Time’

Koryo’s Soundtrack

Published on 2011-05-29 23:09:36

By the year 935, the Silla Dynasty was destroying itself.  The Three Kingdoms, once united, were now at war with each other. Internal conflicts weakening a battered infrastructure allowed ever encroaching outsiders opportunities to conquer.  And th

Aroused (Not Afraid of Fiction)

Published on 2011-05-28 22:11:42

Aroused  An original short story by mfptkd. Come closer. Sit in the circle of my arms. Lean back. Close your eyes. Feel the softness of a touch on your temple, fingers in your hair, freeing the tangles of today.  Listen to the whisper in your ear.

The Second Grade Sophist: An Initial Colloquy

Published on 2011-05-27 21:49:55

While walking. Sophist.  If the world was like Star Wars would you be a Sith Lord or a Jedi? Mom. A Jedi. Sophist.  But the Jedi aren’t as powerful as the Sith. Mom. No. The Jedi are more powerful. Sophist. Maybe they have the same power but the

It’s Always the Holder’s Fault

Published on 2011-05-26 22:44:45

Distracted and holding a little too low for a powerful but inexperienced beginner. No more typing tonight. Just ice and ibuprofen.

Power Scream

Published on 2011-05-25 23:06:28

Can’t say I’ve ever had trouble with volume. But it is intimidating, even frightening, for many people – letting out that keop, that yell, that power. We talk about the why’s with our students.  Generates more energy, reminds

In the Dojang

Published on 2011-05-24 23:28:10

Weariness follows me onto the floor, Tempered by a few deep breaths. Anger flings toxins to the air, Vented through a hundred middle punches. Sadness stifles and slows, Excised with movement. Insecurity lingers in the corners, Banished by a well time

Around the Block (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-05-23 22:47:44

Came home early – or at least early for me. There was enough day light left for a short ride. It was what I needed but not enough. I need to remember to take time for meditation.  And if the weather won’t cooperate, find a different way.

Only so many hours…

Published on 2011-05-22 20:48:26

It was clear when I woke. I kept thinking I would get outside.  Ride my bike.  Feel the sun on my face. But I had to do this, that and the other.  Then it was time to go here and there.  Left only moments to start the thing which still isn’

Demo

Published on 2011-05-21 22:16:05

Performed this afternoon. I’m not an official demonstration team member, as the practice times conflict with other classes I am supposed to be teaching.  At this special event, my Sabonim requested all staff members perform – no exceptio

Quiet

Published on 2011-05-20 23:04:54

Blasting is almost an adequate word to describe the decimal level at which I keep the radio in my car.  I’m currently favoring alternative rock, which makes it seem all the louder. The songs are intelligent, disturbed, and unapologetic.  They are

Conferences

Published on 2011-05-19 21:47:29

If you would like to feel young again, there is nothing quite like sitting across a desk from a teacher. Even when everything is generally good – there is always something more, something better that could be done. Parent-teacher conferences br

Teaching

Published on 2011-05-18 22:17:37

Are you an instructor? In all affirmations there is a becoming.  I am still learning.  Every week I teach a little more.  I enjoy those moments immensely.  I like helping people – the adults just as much as the children.  It is one of the

Exercising Your Mind

Published on 2011-05-17 23:02:10

We teach the children that martial arts practice is not merely a physical activity. Minds are strengthened through memorization, focusing on a specific task, language building and concentration games. The same holds true for adults.  We need that me

Form (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-05-16 07:10:16

Form has many meanings.  At our dojang, it is the word used to describe a series of movements used in defense of an imaginary attacker.  At every belt level you learn a new pattern, while continuing to practice the old. They are a meditation in and

Not Quite Feng Shui

Published on 2011-05-15 21:11:35

Trying to create an uncluttered space. An understanding that taking off your shoes at the doorway, does not mean leaving them there for the next person to fall over. I would like my home to reflect that I’m a martial artist. Unfortunately it mi

Things that Make me Queasy

Published on 2011-05-14 21:05:04

Spit or Sweat? (Guess what’s on the mat.) Repeated round, reverse round. Phrase: “I’m just so busy.” Toe picking. Fingers in the mouth. Hand held video games. Chairs to the head. (Just a vide0, not in practice) Competing injur

Luminaries

Published on 2011-05-13 23:32:18

Stopped for a late dinner with Mom, so it was dark by the time I headed home.  The new leaves on the trees made the shadows blacker. Low lying clouds,  outlined by a hidden moon. were ominous and threatening. Coming around a corner, there stood a h

Cookies for Breakfast

Published on 2011-05-12 22:30:41

Black Belt testing in six weeks.  Need to start ramping up the training.  I could blame my knees and a host of other distractions but in the end, the responsibility is mine. Tried very hard today to eat better.  Did well except for the homemade ch

Meditation (Not a Competitive Sport)

Published on 2011-05-11 21:51:33

Quiet class. Sitting silently. Crisscross.  Room darkened. Eyes closed. Breathing. Slowly. Deeply. And again. Focusing on the out and in. Exhale. Let go. But yet, I wonder, If they all aren’t doing it better than me.

Duh

Published on 2011-05-10 21:19:36

Went to see a physician for the first time in a long long time. Was hoping for some help with my knees. The recommendation: Ice after exercise and no jumping. I want my co-pay back.

Bedtime (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-05-09 22:32:51

It’s late.  A zillion and one things to do today and the only things accomplished were not on the list. Sometimes we need to take that moment before trying to sleep.  Breathe deeply.  Focus a moment on what you did do.  Think about what is

Happy Mothers Day

Published on 2011-05-08 22:49:08

Profanity

Published on 2011-05-07 19:19:22

Working on a past due project – so this is an old one, but the first time published. Profanity Can’t sleep, the quiet deafens. Can’t write, the noise overwhelms. Can’t play,  can’t work,  can’t continue. Outside, forehead pressing a

Procrastination or Prioritzing

Published on 2011-05-06 05:38:59

Under time pressure now to finish a project. It has been that thing on my list I could start tomorrow, but now, is due. Deadlines are both motivating and stressful. But they can help us organize those lists. And now I have to stop writing about what

Trouble

Published on 2011-05-05 22:25:12

We try to teach children how to stay out of trouble. It is a hard sell as they grow up.  A student at my eldest son’s school was arrested for underage drinking followed up by resisting arrest.  From listening to them talk and following the Fa

Basketball and Other Priorities

Published on 2011-05-04 14:56:32

I spend a good amount of time at my school.  It is where I practice, where I work and where I play. So I make different lists – some on paper, some in my head – to keep track of what needs to get done along with all the when’s and

Two Kicks Back and Forth

Published on 2011-05-03 23:30:02

We do this exercise in class. Students lined up in pairs down the center of the dojang. Side A does two forward motion kicks (no contact) toward side B, who slide back. Both sides keep their hands up, and eyes forward.  Reverse and repeat. Partners

Move, Please, Move! (Monday’s Minute of Meditation

Published on 2011-05-02 07:09:21

Meditation should encourage, inspire, invigorate.  It may not happen all at once, but if you keep coming back, you’ll notice the difference. The thoughts which intrude may not always be pleasant.  Listen.  Move past. She came into the theate

One Third

Published on 2011-05-01 20:49:49

Nice to have a milestone to use as a posting topic. The Top Three Favorite martial arts post: http://mfptkd.wordpress.com/2011/03/02/1000-middle-punches/ The post with the most hits: (food generates many searches) http://mfptkd.wordpress.com/2011/03/

Release

Published on 2011-04-30 20:19:47

Call in.  Pull the covers up over your head.  Sleep. Talked myself out of that unhealthy tiredness every day this week, sometimes twice in the same day. And every moment spent at the dojang, whether working or teaching or practicing, made me feel b

Morning Sunshine Motivator

Published on 2011-04-29 07:08:36

Sky is clear.  Sun is up.  Birds in strong voice. Tulips peeking from the ground.  Tree buds ready to burst. You can’t help but want to be out there, doing. Some new students came in last night with the “I’ll just watch.” m

Sore

Published on 2011-04-28 22:57:42

Worked out hard the last two days. It hurts to type. But when I hear the moans and groans from the class, I am reminded of how far I’ve come. Back to when I could barely complete one full pushup. It reminds me that despite the aches and pains,

Subversive

Published on 2011-04-27 22:46:09

Only nine. Opinionated, tired, and unwilling.  Through example and language spreading dissent among the ranks. “I can’t do this.  Is it time to go home?  This is dumb.” We recognize the good.  Encourage and praise the children w

Attitude Revisited

Published on 2011-04-26 22:59:38

Tired.  Opened up an old file prior to this blog to see if there was anything easily modified and posted.  This was the first entry I opened.  Very telling. An Attitude Adjustment Friday last, as is wont to happen or it wouldn’t be my life, the

Mind and Body (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-04-25 09:30:37

Meditation helps our physical training by allowing us to be present in the moment and listen to our bodies. We do a drill which breaks down the separate elements of a kick. Our Sabonim will sometimes have us hold the kick in the air, examining our te

Reading

Published on 2011-04-24 21:40:29

Reading this weekend… Delights and Shadows (Cooper Canyon Press, 2004) Collected poems by Ted Kooser. (Poet Laureate of the United States, winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry.) This book was given to me by a friend at TKD who knew I was int

Searching for Joy

Published on 2011-04-23 23:59:49

There is always joy to be found at the dojang, but as I would like it to be more pervasive everywhere, I googled it to see what I could find. Give not over thy soul to sorrow; and afflict not thyself in thy own counsel. Gladness of heart is the life

Counting Down, Climbing Up

Published on 2011-04-22 20:32:08

Testing is a mere two months from today. The short list of what needs to be worked on: Cardio (Endurance) Kicks (Strength) Forms (Memory) but most of all Attitude, which impacts everything.

Show Off

Published on 2011-04-21 22:53:51

Don’t have the physical acumen to be a show off at my school. Was wishing for it today. Pushed hard but still my technique remains fine when I would rather it be amazing. It is so hard to judge which limits are self imposed and which are simply

Infinite

Published on 2011-04-20 23:15:34

“When does it end?”  the little girl asks. “What do you mean?” I counter. “The classes.  When do we stop coming here?” she replies. All of five years old, she is happy to be at our school, but still she is planni

Under the Wire or Too Little, Too Late

Published on 2011-04-20 00:14:15

Eight minutes too late. But I’m counting it for yesterday anyway because for me today doesn’t end until I’m sleeping. Which will hopefully be in about 5 minutes.

Forecast (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-04-18 06:13:18

Meditation helps reduce stress.  you have to make an effort.  Let those stressful thoughts come, overwhelm and agitate, but then let them go. I would like to know what is going to happen next.  Could use a cut to the happy ending, so I’m sur

Time Off

Published on 2011-04-17 16:34:22

There is always a reason not to do something.  You change priorities to be able to do something else.  Because no matter how much we would like to be able to do everything, we are limited by time.  Everything is a choice. So when I hear, “I

Breathe

Published on 2011-04-16 20:03:26

“Breathe.” he says. As I’m bound and gagged with no way for air to get through. “Breathe.” he says. As I’m choking on the noxious gas. “Breathe.” he says. As the atmosphere morphs to a liquid, drowning

Sharks

Published on 2011-04-15 20:04:54

Just when you thought you could let go, take a deep breath and swim again.

Perseverence and Post a Day

Published on 2011-04-14 22:18:38

One of the tenets our school teaches is perseverance.   You keep going even though you want to quit.  And everyone wants to quit, at least two or three times on the way from white to black belt. A black belt, our Sabonim says, is a white belt who

A Belated Birthday Card (Not Afraid of Fiction #3)

Published on 2011-04-13 20:43:02

Everything surrounding the boy, floating relaxed and reclined in the open air enclosure, is artificial. He lays almost perfectly still, seemingly suspended magically in mid-air but is in reality buoyed up by an array of imperceptible anti-gravity rod

To Whom it May Concern (A Cover Letter’s Lament)

Published on 2011-04-12 07:12:38

April 12, 2011 Dear Sir or Ma’am, Please excuse the emotional nature of this note, as I am writing to you in fear that I am dying.  Murdered to be exact, and I am, if well written, precise. I would blame Technology but it has no control over w

Waiting for the Rain (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-04-11 06:14:22

If I was given a preference, I would sit outside to meditate. Grew up in the country. Waiting on the porch as the weather turned, all you heard was the wind. A city neighborhood does not allow the quiet before the storm.  There is traffic; cars, ska

Warmth

Published on 2011-04-10 18:48:04

Temperature jumped up by almost 30 degrees. Nature’s summer preview. Everyone is about.  Sidewalks and parks full. Shorts.  T-shirts. Sunglasses. Smiles. The forecasters warn it is only for today.  Tomorrow morning and the rest of the week i

Foggy

Published on 2011-04-09 18:49:18

Exterior haze, Matching my unfocused thoughts. Looking for some light.

Let the Puppies Die (A WordPress Assignment)

Published on 2011-04-08 06:31:14

Throughout our lives we may find ourselves in plenty of lose-lose situations.  Joseph Heller’s Catch 22 or the Star Trek famed Kobayashi Maru test or the wordpress topic originators pile of puppies on a train track are all conundrums that forc

Fighting

Published on 2011-04-07 06:18:33

I don’t approve of fighting. It’s an often heard objection to martial arts training. Well, of course, we don’t teach the children to beat each other up. But we do teach them how to defend themselves, which may mean fighting. And we

Girl Talk

Published on 2011-04-06 21:13:05

“When you’re all out, I hope it’s not just a massive bitch session.” Well, yes. But then, no. Everyone needs that outlet for stress.  Whatever the source:  children, lovers, work, school, finances, or health. You want someon

Time’s Up

Published on 2011-04-05 06:16:42

A father of a friend of my son died Saturday. My age.  No discernible health issues.  Sudden heart attack. Didn’t know him.  Simple hello’s at the soccer field and around town. But it is bothersome.  That finite aspect of time over wh

Is There Poetry in Wrestlemania? (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-04-04 06:30:47

Meditation can be looking at things a different way.  Opening ourselves to an alternate point of view, another perspective.  Seeing both sides of the coin while it spins, balancing on the edge. Nine year old finisher fan, Watching a spectacle in th

Reading Recommendations

Published on 2011-04-03 15:26:47

An adult student stopped by my desk and asked for a recommendation of something to read.  My head filled with hundreds of books.  He could not narrow down a genre. It’s interesting list to make.  What do all these books say about me?  (In n

Sitting in Judgment

Published on 2011-04-02 20:26:36

Judged at tournament today. As I know how hard some of the children worked, I would prefer everyone to win.  Life’s not like that.  The board doesn’t always break.  Body and mind freeze forms.  Hands drop, letting opponent’s poi

Sparring (Just Get in the Ring)

Published on 2011-04-01 06:36:58

I think, maybe, I’ll watch. You hear it from all age level students, children and adults. It’s intimidating. The pads and guards and helmet shout out, I’m ready for this, but inside you are thinking, that other person is about to ki

Lifting (On the Importance of Exercise)

Published on 2011-03-31 05:55:15

Fall into many bad routines.  The worst being staying sedentary and skipping class. The winter is harsh and long and dark.  It’s warm under covers, I’m tired today and it’s too early to get up.  Emails need answering, projects pl

A Day Off

Published on 2011-03-30 22:22:36

Took a day to relax, rejuvenate, and renew. Children capitulated, weather cooperated and thoughts cleared. Still went to class, of course, but focused on the fun.

Ellie the Elephant

Published on 2011-03-29 22:06:28

There are no absolute safe places. But there are things that make us feel better. Ellie the Elephant protects the house when we are away, guards the partially closed doors, and keeps the shadowy black night outside where he belongs. Safe is a sense o

Taking Time (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-03-28 07:05:19

There’s no time. The question: “What are you doing for you?” And the predominant answer: “There’s no time.” But it’s not time’s fault.  We choose what we do with it. Sometimes we need to make ourselves

Singularity

Published on 2011-03-27 22:50:16

Damn inevitability.

It’s a New Day

Published on 2011-03-26 23:03:23

Laid down last night in a veritable dither, which involves more tissues than a non qualified dither but less alcohol than dither in all caps or with added exclamatory punctuation. Awoke at 3am, stayed undercover, debating with myself on the topic of

Asleep at the Wheel

Published on 2011-03-25 22:15:46

On my way back to work this afternoon, eyelids too heavy to remain open, the car drifted across the center line.  Awoke abruptly, swerving back into the proper lane. Been sleepy at all hours this week, with the exception of at night, when rest is pe

Last Resort

Published on 2011-03-24 23:01:55

Nothing to say. Less to write. Watching minutes tick by, Forever lost. Compelled to continue, Put down words about words, As a last resort.    

Dosan Ahn Chang Ho: Character, Leadership and Sacrifice

Published on 2011-03-23 06:37:30

“That we lack great men is ascribable to our lack of persons who are determined to become great men and make an effort to that end.  Why are the people who lament for the lack of great men not making an effort to become great themselves?”

Gray Days

Published on 2011-03-22 20:59:03

Another gray day. It’s raining.  And along with being grateful that it is not snow, I’m choosing to view the showers as a cleansing. Washing away what was yesterday. Allowing us to focus on today.

Thinking Rock (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-03-21 06:15:36

My best meditations are moving.  So happy to see a little of spring and be able to take out the bike. As a little girl (eight, nine and ten), I would follow the well worn path, around the dog run, under the sheets hanging on the line, behind the mak

Stances

Published on 2011-03-20 07:42:49

Note:  All schools and styles have different variants of the following stances.  These are a few of what we use.  Also found many variants of the Korean phonetic spelling and pronunciation – but you get the idea. Sitting Stance (ANNUNSUGI &#

Super

Published on 2011-03-19 21:34:51

If you were a super hero, who would you be? My Sabonim put the question to the children as part of a lesson on doing acts of kindness.  How all of us are and can be heroes. Now I hadn’t been feeling very heroic of late, so when he asked the qu

TGIF

Published on 2011-03-18 07:10:53

Tick…   Tick…   Tick…   Tick…   Tick… Long week.

A Touch of Green

Published on 2011-03-17 06:55:03

I’m not Irish. But I feel the need to celebrate anyway. And as green beer is just a little too much at six o’clock in the morning, here is my toast. Happy St. Patrick’s Day! recipe

Adjustment

Published on 2011-03-16 06:42:16

Daylight savings set the clocks ahead an hour on Sunday.  Body and mind have yet to come to terms with the change. Need a more persistent alarm clock.

Resistant Kindling (Assignment Haiku)

Published on 2011-03-15 07:00:18

Assignment from the WordPress idea generators:  Write a Haiku about something that drives you nuts.   Solid slice of strength. Violating nature’s law. The board that won’t break.

Humming (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-03-14 06:46:07

With thanks to Mom! Many forms of meditation use a mantra.  Wikipedia defines it as “a sound, syllable, word, or group of words that are considered capable of “creating transformation” (cf. spiritual transformation).” http://

Letting Go

Published on 2011-03-13 08:35:36

My Sabonim once asked me if I ever just let go. “No.” I responded.  Followed by a quick “I’m not really sure what you mean, Sir.” In my mind, there are two things that could happen should I let go. The first is that a hole

Just One Word

Published on 2011-03-12 21:26:16

This is an English translation of a Korean poem we teach to our students.  Author unknown. Just One Word Just one uncaring word can spark a fight. Just one cruel word can shatter a life. Just one harsh word can sow misunderstanding. Just one disresp

Deficiencies

Published on 2011-03-11 07:15:22

My Sabonim stopped by me between line drills with an inquiry. Where are you deficient? Now, he was talking about curriculum. This, however, was what popped into my brain: Sunshine. Sleep. Classes. Reading. Writing. Practice. Prioritizing. Push ups. V

Eye Contact

Published on 2011-03-10 06:52:12

Looking deeply into the center dark light of eyes, fathomless and beautiful, their souls connected as they were both lost and found at once. Poppycock. Afraid it only happens that way in romance novels or made for TV movies. Ignoring all romantic imp

Daydreams

Published on 2011-03-09 07:00:44

This is what I hoped for… but this was the view outside my window this morning.      

Breakfast

Published on 2011-03-08 07:12:14

We sometimes ask the children what they ate for breakfast.  It is not only a nutritional energy reminder but also a reflection that being a martial artist is all the time, not only when we are in class. It is also a great way to discover new things

Down Time

Published on 2011-03-07 22:10:46

Worked straight through the weekend and all day today. Plan for this evening: Practice Forms. Glass of Wine. Novel. Not too much wine, or I’ll fall asleep with the book resting on my face.

Self Defense

Published on 2011-03-06 22:20:17

Ran a self defense workshop this afternoon for a group of teenage girls. The girls were upbeat but uncertain.  I was encouraging. Passed along fundamentals:  Self defense is exercise. Self defense is stretching.   Self defense is eating sensibly.

Don’t Just Stand There

Published on 2011-03-05 07:06:09

We lead by example. I was slightly shocked yesterday at the school yard drop off.  There was the normal multitude of children and parents waiting for the bell.  The students are often rough and tumble in the morning; snow mound climbing, tag, ice s

At Capacity

Published on 2011-03-04 22:35:16

I’ve been to those clubs. Spandex and headphones.  Solitary stations.  Silent except for the hum of turning treadmills and occasional grunts of effort. You would think, given my conversational reluctance, the environment would suit. But it

When Falling

Published on 2011-03-03 21:55:42

Tuck your head to your chest. Get as low as time permits. Allow for the roll-forward or back. Use your shoulder. Keep that head tucked. Hold on to the baby but let the eggs go.  

1000 Middle Punches

Published on 2011-03-02 22:43:17

Arrived at work in a sorry sad state. So instead of working through lunch, I worked out.  And although I know from experience it will make me feel better, I am still surprised when it kicks in. Punched and round-housed the Wavemaster until I was out

Dive Rolls and Cartwheels (Hidden Talents)

Published on 2011-03-01 07:10:08

Thank you to the topic generators at WordPress Post a Day because I had nothing this morning. The study and practice of any martial art is an exploration of self. But I am not a particularly talented practitioner.  I have to work at it.  Constantly

Breaking (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-02-28 06:50:28

Can’t tell if meditation is working, so why keep trying? Patience is not one of my strongest characteristics. But sometimes the practice and effort put into an activity, is more important than the end result. So, I take a deep breath… We

Not Afraid of Fiction #2

Published on 2011-02-27 15:36:07

A third of a question and two thirds critical comment was put to me about how there should be and why wasn’t there more martial arts in my martial arts blog. Replied with the truth, and something I share with all the children who come in for th

On Faust

Published on 2011-02-26 06:24:38

I was offered a million dollars if I would return back my belt, along with all experience and knowledge gained in the achievement of said rank.  The answer echoed around the room without thought – no way, never would do it.  It was what the l

Niceties

Published on 2011-02-25 06:29:31

I hate nice. And if you asked someone to describe me in one word, they would pick ‘nice’. Nice is boring. Nice is fine. Nice is the heroines best friend.  Nice is a handshake, a serviceable pair of shoes, or an easy listening radio station. But

Deadline

Published on 2011-02-24 05:56:50

Something interrupts or intrudes. Another thing put off or delayed. Until there are no extensions or excuses. Must be done today. The third thing will have to wait.

Spasms and Strength

Published on 2011-02-23 07:00:12

Pushed in class, which felt good. Yesterday. This morning muscles are vociferously complaining. Mellowing it out with a strong dose of ibuprofen and a heating pad. Realize the worth outweighs the annoyance. Need to be stronger all around so pain abat

You Are What You Eat

Published on 2011-02-22 06:11:33

Moderation. Most things are all right in moderation. But you must be alert.  The measurement can get skewed over time and what was once okay is now too much. When pain cuts into workouts, consumption goes up in a bad way.  Don’t feel like an

If (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-02-21 06:59:24

The mind wanders.  And I like to imagine.  It is often preferable to now. But we use meditation to help us be present in the moment.  Focus and concentrate on the immediacy of our self. Many practices will make use of a mantra.  A word or phrase

Waiting for Spring

Published on 2011-02-20 19:32:52

Silent, somber, cold. Hard pressed to put in writing. Badly wanting warmth.

Nightmare

Published on 2011-02-19 06:47:41

A small band of miniature white belts, encouraged by some slightly older purple belts, armed with long foam noodles, invaded the Sabonim’s office and laid waste to everything in sight.  The space and the children were all out of proportion, so

A Good Class

Published on 2011-02-18 06:46:14

Everyone has varied wants and needs. That’s why the study and practice of a martial art is wonderful and a topic I expand upon frequently.  It’s all-encompassing.  Individual and communal.  Competitive yet cooperative.  Exercise for t

Taking Care of Business

Published on 2011-02-17 06:49:53

Perhaps one small boy used an entire roll of toilet paper to clean himself.  More likely that boy used just enough to impede the flushing mechanism and then the rest of the boys kept using the facility as if there was nothing wrong. No one, child or

Training

Published on 2011-02-16 06:48:40

Working from home.  Sick child upstairs, propped in bed watching television. Call from bedroom.  Run upstairs. Glass of water. Run down. Call.  Run up. Fix covers. Run down. Call. Run up. Some soup. Run down. Call. Run up. Nothing good on. Run dow

A Great Big Musical Number

Published on 2011-02-15 07:07:03

Watching the sun come up over the lake (Can’t actually see the water as I’m eight blocks away and the neighborhood impedes my view, but I know it’s there).  Nature putting on quite the show.  Dramatic clouds. Red, yellow, orange,

Love (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-02-14 07:04:33

I sit in my car, engine running because it’s cold, and turn the radio up until the water condensing on the window vibrates. The volume pushes everything else out of my head and I relax my breathing. If you happened to walk past, you might be cu

Tiger Balm

Published on 2011-02-13 06:56:02

Tiger Balm was developed in the latter half of the 19th century (which also brought us telephones, non-Euclidean geometry, pasteurization, motorcycles, dynamite, Braille, light bulbs, abolitionists, the Periodic Table of Elements, communism and atomi

Drag Me Through Needles

Published on 2011-02-12 06:51:54

My typical response to injury is to leave it alone and ignored until it gets better.  Add a little ibuprofen for morning and a relaxing restorative at bedtime.  So far, it has worked – although slowly. But I tweaked my lower back last week. 

Question of the Day

Published on 2011-02-11 06:31:19

What’s the question of the day? It’s the 3rd grader’s post read pre-sleep game.   Sometimes he picks, sometimes I pick. What’s your favorite type of kick? (Besides the flying side kick – that’s too many people

Competitive Feelings

Published on 2011-02-10 06:56:07

Why are you so down?  So and so has it much worse off than you.  You’re lucky. But it’s not a competition.  Everyone has issues, however our breaking points are not the same.  What may seem a trivial obstacle from our perspective, mig

Keep Moving (On and Out of my Mind)

Published on 2011-02-09 07:05:46

Lower back ached abominably last night.  Thought I might simply stand behind the front desk not moving for forever, but my Sabonim – ever watchful – told me to go teach the next class. I can’t bend over. Don’t do the class, t

Middle Punch Therapy

Published on 2011-02-08 15:25:05

Cold floor. No clean cups. Mismatched socks. Empty cereal box in cupboard. Every single red light from home to work. Three calls from the child’s school: teacher, counselor than principal. Pause for middle punches on the bag. Many middle punche

Stretch (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-02-07 06:52:19

Meditations are always a stretch.  And yes, when I fail to remind myself to breathe, I forget. Wake up stiff and slow. Could blame Monday’s but the onus is on everyday. Start the water for tea. (Miss you terribly, sometimes desperately, Coffee

By Committee

Published on 2011-02-06 07:31:37

I know this friend of a friend of my cousin’s neighbor’s uncle, running a business out of his garage, who’s into this sort of stuff.  They could help with this. Really. Not a control freak. Simply prefer things to be done properly.

Shivers

Published on 2011-02-05 06:58:01

Nose is cold. Hands and feet sting. Body trembling. No longer feverish but still freezing. Feel the need to blame someone.  Must be some sort of winter weather governmental experiment.  Testing our fortitude and resolve. (And I’m not purchasi

Self Inflicted

Published on 2011-02-04 09:47:35

Skipped class yesterday afternoon, sulking. Went home and had sugar for lunch. Felt worse.  Duh. It struck me that I was deliberately hurting myself. Not as dramatically as a teenager who takes a sharp edge to their skin leaving small outward scars,

Wonhyo’s Understanding

Published on 2011-02-03 06:34:57

Snowed in, I thought I might accomplish a massive amount of writing. But I had nothing.  And still this morning I would rather be in bed. So as I could use some illumination, I give to you the tale of Wonhyo’s enlightenment.  He was a Korean

A Little Sip of Sprite

Published on 2011-02-02 07:14:42

It’s 4:05am. You hear a small voice. My tummy hurts. And then, although you believe it can not possibly happen so fast, there is vomit everywhere – the blankets, the hall, the child, and the bathroom. You calm.  You reassure.  You clean

Wildfire Forms

Published on 2011-02-01 07:00:20

I was working forms but the children were dancing. They were all new white belts and we were practicing the first eight moves of Basic One, a series of low blocks, walking stances, middle punches and turns. It may have been their youth, excitement ov

Dishwashing (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-01-31 06:35:18

It’s Monday and I stayed up a little too late, so I’m tired and contrary. I don’t have time to meditate. It doesn’t work for me. I would much rather hit something. But it’s Monday, and I don’t want to begin the wee

Not Afraid of Fiction #1

Published on 2011-01-30 08:34:50

The following is a work of original short fiction.  It was not written during my 5 to 6am blogging time.  This takes me a little longer.  I enjoy the writing, but then they simply sit in the computer and I thought if I started a monthly series, it

Taking Stock

Published on 2011-01-30 08:03:31

I broke my fast of 48 hours with a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. It is always delicious but this bowl was particularly warming. The headache this year was still present but not as bad as previous attempts.  I cut my caffeine intake by half a

Fasting

Published on 2011-01-29 06:37:34

We fast as a cleansing. It reminds us of the difference between what we want and what we need. We fast as a community.  Support from others is almost as important as the water. We fast as individuals, practicing the tenets we recite in class:  inte

Hungry

Published on 2011-01-28 06:54:13

Only12 hours into a 48 hour fast. Need self control, courage, confidence and another glass of water.  

Cut

Published on 2011-01-27 07:06:51

Is an individual’s failure to note a new haircut a lack of sensibility and observation or a comment on the haircut itself? As martial artists we are encouraged to be aware and present in the moment.  It’s easy to breeze through our inter

Top Down

Published on 2011-01-26 06:54:24

I started at the beginning. It may have been better to begin at the end. The week following a testing cycle we work on new forms. (Series of movements defending from an imaginary attacker)  I began with the first form (white belts) and worked my way

Headache

Published on 2011-01-25 06:49:54

An alien invader with hostile intentions broke into my house last night, discovered me sleeping and unaware, burrowed through an open orifice to the soft matter inside my skull, where it has continued to feed and build itself a home.  The pushing an

Victories (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-01-24 06:01:37

Thank you to Mr. Patterson and his blog at Striking Thoughts for this link to an article on research showing how meditation changes brain structure. You can read the story at Science Daily. I am still skeptical.  But I keep trying. Although you are

Escape

Published on 2011-01-23 07:11:49

Went to see The Green Hornet last night.  They did not have to twist my arm too much as their plea was well-directed, “You’ll like it – There’s martial arts!” It was wonderful. Not the movie itself.  If you go in wanti

The Parents of the Dan-Gun

Published on 2011-01-22 06:02:45

At the first test I witnessed, the higher belts recite the definition for each form (series of movements defending against an imaginary attacker). They were all named for a significant figure in Korean history.  As part of my training in Tae Kwon Do

C-c-c-cold. Brought to You By Clear Sunny Skies

Published on 2011-01-21 12:39:58

It is one of those amazing natural dichotomies.  You look out the window and the sky is a shadowless blue backdrop for the brightly shining sun.  Your mind registers warmth.  You want to step outside, feel the rays touch your skin. It’s an i

Giving in to the Gimp

Published on 2011-01-21 10:03:17

My Sabonim, in the midst of a busy testing night, almost speeds past, but  never missing anything,  he catches me out of the corner of his eye, and pauses to whisper: Look at how you are standing. My right knee turns in causing that entire side of

Back Kicks

Published on 2011-01-20 06:50:11

Do you still want to do this job? Ouch. Yes, of course. It’s an attitude adjustment question. And I will allow that occasionally I am contrary.  There are going to be requirements in every job that are not our favorite things, but need to be d

Beginning (An Act of Courage)

Published on 2011-01-19 07:00:10

It’s very loud.  There are groups of people talking and stretching who all seem to know each other.  You don’t know exactly where to go or be.  The stiffness of a new uniform makes movement awkward and there’s this white belt whi

The Wizard’s Assistant: A Black Belt Essay (Story of Hope)

Published on 2011-01-18 07:00:17

The best stories, the ones you pass down, the ones you share with your children and your children’s children and the ones that those progeny will continue to cast forward long after you are gone are the true stories.  The settings may be modified,

Happily Ever After (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-01-17 07:16:20

My martial arts class begins and ends with meditation.  I feel as if I’m doing it wrong but my Sabonim assures me that there is no wrong way to meditate.  You find your way. I wall everything up.  It is empty, desolate. I let everything in.

Running Clear

Published on 2011-01-16 07:30:49

Checking my emails. Taking a break to use the restroom. Putting together a schedule of activities for the student event tomorrow. Taking a break to use the restroom. Going for a walk with the dog. Taking a break to use the restroom. Cleaning up last

Pinched Nerves

Published on 2011-01-15 07:17:09

I turned my head the wrong way. Someone asked me a question, I went to look and felt that sharp pin poke at the base of my neck towards the right shoulder. There’s always something.  (For as often as this theme seems to come up – I could

this is only a TEST

Published on 2011-01-14 07:10:58

My mother, on those crazy days managing the seven of us siblings when we were little, could often be heard to sigh heavily and say out loud but to herself, “God is testing me.” Tests bring to mind something negative involving grading and

Don’t Lead With Your Head

Published on 2011-01-13 07:15:53

We were lined up doing a kicking combination back and forth across the expansive dojang floor.  It was our first exercise following the stretches, so I was still letting go of all those things that interfere and interrupt.  Our Sabonim weaves in an

Soft Slow Kisses (Only an Hour to Live)

Published on 2011-01-12 11:14:32

Today’s posting brought to you with much help from the creators of ibuprofen and strong black coffee with thanks for the bonus topic. No regrets. That is my goal, not realized.  So, if today was the day I discovered there was only an hour left

Overcoming (or the Broken Toe Treatise)

Published on 2011-01-11 07:22:19

Rounding the corner, encouraging the children to run faster, jump higher and keop louder, the edge of my bare foot slammed into a body shield. I choked back the blast invoking hell and damnation. I kept going.  One thing and then another thing and t

Fifteen (Monday’s Minute of Meditation)

Published on 2011-01-10 13:00:49

In Martial Arts we use meditation as a way to bring focus. We sit for a few moments at the beginning of every class to let others things go and concentrate on now.  I am nervous and wary when I meditate.  I tense. I tap.  I twitch.  I much prefer

An Answer to All Problems

Published on 2011-01-09 08:34:30

“What do you need to do to get better?” It’s a question we put to our students as we prepare them for testing to advance to the next rank.  But I believe it applies to all of us, in so many aspects of our lives. What do you need to

Leave Your Lights Up!

Published on 2011-01-08 06:40:12

By the time I left the dojang last night, it was not merely cold, but cold and dark. It was not the ‘oh, it’s winter’ type cold but a brittle bitter biting chill that makes you feel as if with every movement you might shatter.  And

Taking and Teaching

Published on 2011-01-07 06:42:28

I was excited to be taking class yesterday, the first class in a long time in which I could simply be a student. But it fell a little flat.  Focusing on what I couldn’t do, didn’t remember and all the minor aches, set me back. Later that