Sons 1-5

“Robert Kiyosaki mentions in his Rich Dad, Poor Dad series how the poor teach their kids to join football or basketball teams; the wealthy, golf or tennis.  It is conveyor belt versus leadership all over again–employee training sports versus individualized, mentored leadership athletics. Of course teamwork is also valuable, but you can learn teamwork just as well in swimming, tennis, golf, and martial arts. The same lessons apply to other facets of our social life and activities. Baseball was Oliver’s love from ages eight to sixteen. His coaches and teammates were among his best friends and most influential mentors. He would not change that experience for anything. When our children came of baseball age, we took them to a baseball park to watch a game, and also to a martial arts studio to watch a practice. They enjoyed both, but we noticed the tension of  parents arguing at the baseball game versus the order and safety of the dojo. It was ironic, but more importantly, it was a powerful lesson in leadership.” ~ Leadership Education, Oliver and Rachel DeMille

I would like to tell you that we were naturally insightful and discerning in applying the above suggestions, but that is not the case.

The quote and its source book hadn’t yet been written.

We HAD however, along with MILLIONS of other Americans, watched “The Karate Kid.”

What is highlighted in blue and red was the real scenario.

Almost verbatim.

Arguing parents…

Tensions running high…

Competition that was over the top…

“Athletes” in tears…

Did I mention that the “athletes” were 5?…

I should point out two things…

1. The above quote “When our children became of baseball age..” would’ve been a profound consideration.

Son #1 was the lucky individual that was then 5.

I have still not ruled out the possibility that child #1 is merely a parental test lab for life’s situations.

2. I know several individuals in team sport coaching positions that are life changing individuals.

I plan on featuring some of them on this blog.

They mentor in extraordinary ways.

Clearly, for our family, martial arts became the choice.

More details will follow later…

November 13th was a banner day!

Son #2 tested for his second degree black belt.

Where the physical and mental training are concerned, the test has gone on for quite some time…

Four months…

Two hours a day…

In addition to the “regular weekly workout-at-the-dojo” schedule.

Faithfulness…

Mental and physical acuity and self-discipline…

Stamina…

Strength…

Fortitude…

Courage…

All of these and more are the rewards of the diligent.

Son #2 and dear friend, with "Hanshi"

Son #2 and Sensei, a powerful mentor

Diligent accurately describes Son #2.

Karate, along with life lessons and Leadership Education, have taught him to always remember those that have mentored powerfully and well along the way to a goal…

#2 and Kelle, who taught you to respect and love martial arts when you were young

Sons #1 and #2...BEST FRIENDS.

To rejoice in the fact that great mentors and examples can also be family…and when they are, one is most fortunate.

Sons #1 and #2, with Kelle, one of your biggest supporters over the years

That mentors may take a lesser role, but never a lesser influence…

And at the end of the day, you can rejoice in a goal achieved…

Watch “The Karate Kid” to celebrate and check for tips…just in case…

And to laugh hysterically at this video…

Just for fun…