On 5/16, the 2008 New England Atlantic Pacific Tang Soo Do Federation Black Belt camp took place at scenic Camp Jewell YMCA in Colebrook Connecticut. Participants of all ages ranking from red belt to Master took part in the events, all of which incorporated the five pillars of Moo Do: History, Tradition, Culture, Philosophy and Physical Action/Empowerment.
With a heavy agenda and the spring Black Belt testing cycle to accomplish, associated members and distinguished guests got right to work. Throughout the weekend students were not only asked to physically give 150% effort, but to attend leadership presentations and to stretch one’s own self expectations, pushing the group to a higher level of awareness. Teachings included Moo Do philosophy, Korean history and Korean language. World class clinics were held by APTSDF Masters with a focus in weaponry, hyungs, Aikido, Capoeira, grappling, breaking and seated “one-step” sparring.
People of all nationalities and cultural backgrounds came together in an effort to further their understanding of Tang Soo Do. As a student myself, I can attest that what we came away with was so much more. KJN St. James’ first words at orientation were “learn, grow, and share”. We learned, not just physical action, but about each other. We grew, in a duality that encompassed mental and corporeal challenges. We shared, and will carry to others the enormous amount of spirit that embodied the experience of those lessons learned.
We started on Friday as strangers with something in common. We ended on Sunday as a family united in diversity and chi. “Mind, Body, Spirit”… Moo Do. Balance. Harmony. I am at peace.
Thank You to all who gave of themselves their energy, their knowledge and their wisdom.
Two powerful principles that every Black Belt Leader & Champion must possess are the principles of Perseverance and Persistence: seeing things through to completion, crossing the finish line, having persistence in the face of resistance or challenge, staying focused on the goal and always ready to overcome any obstacles that may be encountered. Sometimes referred to as “Stick-to-it-iveness!”
Perseverance is a vital ingredient of all worthy achievements. Learning to be able to set your sights on a specific target, then aiming your energy and efforts in the direction of your dreams. Black Belt Leaders & Champions understand the need to constantly train themselves to develop the mindset of Stick-to-it-until-you-do-it! Setting your sights on becoming a Black Belt Leader & Champion is a powerful, impacting and challenging goal. It’s also a goal that will always have a positive impact on every aspect of your life.
Is it going to be easy? Is it going to happen quickly? Not likely. Any worthwhile achievement requires some sacrifice, lot’s of energy and effort, plus plenty of persistence. I have an old saying that goes like this: “Anything that is worthwhile, takes awhile.” It’s best to support your goal with at least three reasons why its achievement is important to you. Constantly remind yourself of your reasons and they will give you strength at the time you need it the most.
You have to create a big enough why!
Simply put: fall down seven times, get up eight!
Black Belt Leaders & Champions understand that Martial Arts begins and ends with respect. It’s like being trained with a code of courtesy that leads to many ways to demonstrate respect. Whenever you bow, give positive responses and polite greetings, you express your respect and appreciation. I heard once that when a student bows to their senior, they not only show humility and respect but they bow right through their senior to the art. That is, they see the big picture. They understand that history, tradition, culture, and philosophy are all important to becoming a well rounded martial artist.
As children, we are taught early to be courteous and to have good manners. Sometimes the important lessons we learn early in life need to be repeated and even relearned. Courtesy is one of the core principles of becoming a great Black Belt Leader & Champion. It is one of the very first things you learn when you begin training in the Martial Arts. It separates us from most other activities. It is also something that is lacking in much of society today. Being courteous and respectful is a great way to make a first and lasting impression on others. It is a behavior and quality that will benefit any relationship, personal or professional.
Saying “PLEASE” and “THANK YOU”, looking someone in the eyes during conversation, these are all subtle and proper ways to show Black Belt Leadership manners and demonstrate courtesy. Becoming a great student of the martial arts takes practice, lots of practice. COURTESY takes practice as well, the good news is that we can all practice it daily, in and out of the dojo or dojang. If you are in school, at work, at home and especially at your academy, COURTESY is a great habit to develop. Our request for action is that you constantly practice your Black Belt Leadership manners and courteous behavior.
Be a Model of Respect and Courteous Behavior. Be a Black Belt Leader and Champion!!!
Cambridge Tang Soo Do would like to congratulate the following students for successfully completing the 2008 Spring testing cycle. The new ranks are:
| Daniel Maibor | 3rd Gup |
| Abi Capobianco | 8th Gup |
| Kevin Palmer | 8th Gup |
| Traci Thoresen | 9th Gup |
| Ellen Cappo | 9th Gup |
| Mike Vemula | 9th Gup |
| Linh Chau | 9th Gup |
A warm welcome to the following students who have decided to start their journey in the Martial Arts at Cambridge Tang Soo Do:
| Ellen Cappo |
| Mike Vemula |
| Linh Chau |