I have spoken to hundreds of school age children over the years and when I cover the topic about bullying, I always end my presentations with a talk about kindness. Yes, being an expert in karate and self defense, most kids are looking for me to finish my talks by showing them some slick karate moves. As much as I …
Randy’s Reindeers Ride Again
By now, most of you following this blog know that I own my own martial arts school in Columbia, South Carolina. In addition to teaching my students self defense skills, each month during class, we review a certain character and life skill. Yes, I know what you are thinking! What does character and life skills have to do with karate? Everything! …
Kill Them With Kindness
I recently did a school talk to a group of 4th graders in honor of October being National Anti-Bully Awareness month. I have taught hundreds of children over the years and it never ceases to amaze me how the kids think I am there to show them how to fight a bully. But, in fact, it’s the total opposite. I say, “Kill …
Kindness On A Mountain Bike
“A warm smile is the universal language of kindness.” William Arthur Ward This past weekend I rode a 10 mile mountain bike trail at Harbison State Forest. With high temperatures and lots of humidity, the heat index was over 100 degrees. Harbison State Forest is a popular attraction to hikers and bikers alike, as it located less than 20 miles from …
Daily Acts Of Kindness
Daily Acts of Kindness The Lessons Learned Several years ago, I participated in a year long program for master instructors called The Ultimate Black Belt Test. This program was developed by one of my friends, Tom Callos, a practicing martial artist, activist and teacher, with over 40 years of experience. As part of my test, I had to complete 50,000 push ups, …
Kindness Is The Ultimate Form Of Self Defense In School
This past year, I taught a leadership class to 4th and 5th graders at Sandlapper Elementary School, which is located just a few miles from my karate school. This was a unique opportunity for me to teach these children how to deal with bullies in a non-violent way. I have been training in the martial arts for many years and …
Need Your Help: Send Birthday Cards to A Sick Little Boy
I was just recently notified by a friend from up north, that there is a little boy in Foxboro, Massachusetts that has an unusual request for his birthday. He doesn’t want any presents, he just wants birthday cards. This little boy’s name is Danny Nickerson and he is five years old and will be celebrating his birthday this Friday. He …