August 14th, 2017

This weeks technique is submitted by Mr. Bill Breidenbach, Ni-Dan, Ueshiro, Northern VA Karate Club :

Making X's in the Book

A recurring theme from Hanshi Scaglione was discussed immediately after our recent August promotions as a reminder to all in attendance--testing or not. The topic of showing up on the deck, and making an "X" reflecting attendance, was first addressed as a TOTW in 2001 by Hanshi (as well as several submissions since) and we continue to hear those words spoken by many of our Shihan/Sensei. To reiterate this thought, we all should make every effort to attend at least the minimum number of weekly classes--we should just do it and show up for training!

There will always be reasons to skip a class, but when we make the effort to show up anyway, we end up leaving the Dojo most thankful that we fought through the challenge and made class despite any hurdles. Like most things in life, you get out of karate exactly what you put into it.

Make showing up on the deck a habit giving extra effort to each class and you'll find your karate and life will improve in tandem.

Bill Briedenbach, Ni-Dan
Ueshiro NoVA Karate Club