July 2002

Newsletter

 

We are Family

by Joseph Galea

Traditionally, if the term “martial arts family” was used, it referred to the closeness and unity of fellow practitioners. Today, “martial arts family” has been redefined by the increasing popularity of the martial arts within entire households. Moms and dads, brothers and sisters, are learning the martial arts together. In today’s society, where everyone seems to be busy with their own agendas, families can unite a few times per week to train in the martial arts. We have a saying in the martial arts: “Families that kick together stick together.” Families that share a common interest often maintain or develop a special bond that improves the overall family relationship. Imagine the benefits to your family of training in the martial arts together.

You know that practice makes perfect and having a partner to workout with or review techniques with can be valuable learning tools and can enhance the training experience. You will find this relaxing, enjoyable, and a great way to stay motivated to exercise at home. Although you are working towards a common goal, you will find that each family member reaps a unique benefit from their training. For example, dad may enjoy the benefits of better weight control, the great feeling after working out, and increased energy. While mom might find improved muscle tone, increased energy, and the cardiovascular benefits to be her motivators. Children will enjoy the fundamentals of learning martial arts and the companionship of other family members being involved.

As a family martial arts center, we encourage everyone to participate in the martial arts. We invite your family to join our family in the quest for better health, improved relationships and, of course, a martial arts black belt!

 

action principles

Maintain a Positive Mental Attitude

by Bill FitzPatrick

A positive mental attitude results from a life dedicated to self improvement and service. With a personal commitment to doing your best today, you don’t have to be overly concerned about tomorrow.You can be confident that good things will happen and be equally confident that if trouble comes you will have the strength and skills to cope, take control and then conquer.You are tough. You stay at it.You don’t allow your doubts to destroy your dreams. Hope does spring eternal.

You are thankful to have the curiosity to keep learning.You are grateful to see opportunity knock so often.You are thankful to have the personality to keep making new friends.Your mind can only hold one thought at a time so make that one thought positive. Count your blessings.The way is clear. The world is a better place because you are in it.

 

What Martial Arts Means to Me

by Derek Lactaoen, age 12

Martial arts means safety. Before I started taking classes I could never walk down the street alone with the same kind of confidence I have now. Knowing I can protect myself shows me a whole world of freedom. Martial arts also gives me a motive—a motive to get out of the house and exercise. Instead of turning to the television, I turn to practicing for my test.

I see a lot of my friends at the Academy and it makes it all the more enjoyable. A lot of the people I’ve met in class don’t go to my school so besides maybe seeing them on the weekends, martial arts class is the only place to see them.

Most of all I think of fun. From the minute I arrive to the minute I leave, I just have this rush and it’s a great feeling. Most everything we do is fun and I think that’s why so many people call our school a great place to learn martial arts.

There are 168 hours in every week. With just two of those hours, we can increase your child’s ability to concentrate, focus on the positive and say no to unhealthy peer pressure at school. Our classes focus on selfdefense and how to improve relationships with teachers and classmates. When children practice the martial arts they come away with a lifetime’s worth of success skills.

 

The Most and The Greatest

The Most Destructive Habit : Worry
The Greatest Joy: Giving
The Ugliest Personality Trait: Selfishness
The Most Endangered Species: Dedicated Leaders
Your Greatest Natural Resource: Our Youth
Your Greatest "shot in the arm”: Encouragement
The Greatest Problem to Overcome: Fear
The Most Effective Sleeping Pill: Peace of Mind
The Most Crippling Disease: Excuses
The Most Powerful Force in Life: Love
The Most Dangerous Pariah: Gossip
The Most Incredible Computer: The Brain
The Worst Thing to be Without: Hope
The Two Most Power-filled Words: "I can!"
The Most Worthless Emotion: Self-pity
The Most Beautiful Attire: A SMILE!
The Most Prized Possession: Self-esteem
The Most Contagious Spirit: Enthusiasm