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! …
The Forest Man Of India: Protecting Our Planet Is An Act of Kindness
Can you imagine a forest, larger than Central Park in New York City, that was started more than 40 years ago by one man, with the planting of a single tree? His name is Jadev Payeng and he is referred to as “The Forest Man of India”. Virtually everyday for 40 years, this man has traveled from his home to a …
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 …