In 1993, I experienced a miscarriage of my first pregnancy. Back then, it felt like the worse time of my life. I had dreamed of being a mother since I was a child. This knocked me for a loop, and made me question everything I ever believed. Everyone will face a personal disaster at… Read More If You Believe
Have you ever seen a powerlifter? Powerlifting is an individualized sport, in which competitors attempt to lift as much weight as possible for one repetition in the squat, bench press, and dead lift. It is a difficult task, and in order to win, you have to perform your best lift at exactly the right moment. After… Read More Be a Martial Art Powerlifter
How would you feel if your black belt were only worth a quarter? What if someone sold it to a complete stranger so their kids could play ninja warrior with it? Or, how about if they used it to tie something together they were transporting on the back of their truck? Are all of your… Read More Only Worth A Quarter
To be a martial artist You must practice everyday In your heart, or mind, or spirit You will always find a way As a martial artist You must always soar above And when thunderous storms threaten Defend with courageous love To live as a martial artist You should take a mindful breath And seek a… Read More To Be a Martial Artist
Recently, I had some professional photographs taken. It was a beautiful day outside. The sun was shining, all the trees were green, and the air was fresh. I found a simple spot to sit in my dress, while the photographer set up his equipment. I hoped he would capture the essence of who I am.… Read More The Martial Art Lens
Someone told me recently, “The pen is mighty.” He was encouraging me to keep writing about important martial art life lessons, even if someone on the Internet challenges me, or provokes me with an unwarranted comment. What he said made good sense. Being a writer, or a martial artist, is not just about what you… Read More The Pen and the Sword are Mighty
Life is a fighting art. There are battles of the mind and of the body. How you overcome your demons and your fears determines how well you succeed. How you improve your body and health determines how you feel. The mind and body connection makes sense. One needs the other. Think of all of your… Read More Life is a Fighting Art
I don’t think I am going too far out on a limb by saying the art of manners in martial arts, and in life, could use a little improvement. When I started strengthening my public profile in social media, and connecting with larger groups of martial artists, I was sad to witness the lack of… Read More 5 Ways to Improve Your Martial Art Manners
Do you have an enemy? Is there someone who criticized, condemned, or unjustly judged you? It is difficult to believe that their intent was to hurt you for no apparent reason, even if that is the truth. These enemies lack kindness and compassion. They easily turn your great day, or your great life, upside down. You… Read More The Enemy List
LINT BETWEEN YOUR TOES The other day in Taekwon-Do class, we were practicing patterns or forms. For non-martial artists, this just means the practice of martial art stances, kicks, and blocks that are choreographed and simulate a fighting situation. Martial artists frequently learn patterns, forms, or katas as part of their training. They are very… Read More Lint Between Your Toes – In Life and Martial Arts
