Thoughts on independence and the world police

I typically try to steer away from conversations that are political in nature.  These days it seems that nearly everyone I know is polarized to either be a head-in-the-sand-obama-is-the-antichrist republican or a bleeding-heart-let's-give-away-our-assets-and-country-so-everyone-can-have-the-warm-fuzzies democrat.  Me?  I'm an independent.  Sometimes I vote democrat, sometimes I vote republican.  But that's besides the point.

I have held a belief for some time now that no matter how much we try to install a democratic government somewhere, that if the native people didn't have to fight and die for it, it probably won't take.  Apathy will prevail, corruption will prevail, the status quo will prevail.  Over the past week, I have watched as the people of Egypt have launched what we will probably one day call a revolution to oust their current leader.  Mubarak has been in charge for 30 years.  Our country has supported him because he helps keep the region "stable".  However, the people have had enough of the corruption and brutality.  Despite laws forbidding their street marches and protests, they buck the system.  Blood has been shed.  Several protesters have been killed at the hands of the police, many have been beaten and jailed.  They may never see the light of day again.  They have sacrificed their blood in the fight for justice and an end to tyranny.  If they succeed, and Mubarak steps down, I believe that Egypt will be forever changed - like us.  Just try and take their independence back from them.  Better be ready for a hell of a fight.
     Now look at Iraq and Afghanistan.  In Iraq we toppled the evil dictator who suppressed his people and committed genocide.  We set up an interim government and then implemented democratic elections.  We continue to see our soldiers die as they attempt to drive out insurgents in both countries.  In the meantime, what do we get from their installed governments?  Corruption, apathy and a lack of a real attempt to take charge of their own country and deal with the problems themselves.  If we left tomorrow?  They would probably see another dictator take over and the beginning of a new regime.  I don't think this new independence is valued the same as it would be if they were standing right beside us; working, fighting, and dying. 
     Although our forefathers fought and bled for our independence over 200 years ago, the IDEA of their sacrifice is still present in the American culture.  If anyone ever takes over our country, it won't be by force.  Every man, woman, and child would likely take up arms and fight.  We are a country of fighters.  We have more firearms per capita than any other country in the world.  Why?  Simple.  Because we can.  Its our right to, and men have died to protect that right.   In fact, it may well be an obligation to own a firearm to protect ourselves from an unjust government.  Its what our country's founders believed.  But no, if the United States ever changes to a monarchy/dictatorship/Islamic republic, it will likely be a very gradual process.  A gradual fleecing of us all. 

Ages 5 and up, please

I frequently receive calls from mothers and fathers looking to enroll their child in martial arts class.  I always respond with the phrase, "tell me about your child".  One of the things I am trying to find out is the child's age.  As a matter of practice, I don't accept children under the age of 5. In the past, I have done a 2 lesson evaluation trial with a few 4 yr olds, but I often have to tell them to come back in about a year.  When explaining this over the phone, the question is always WHY?

First off, let me say that I appreciate the efforts of parents who are looking to get their child involved in such a rewarding activity.  However, as a parent, I must also say that you shouldn't be in a rush to become a soccer mom/dad, carting children around to multiple activities and sports.  There will be plenty of time for that.  For now, spend the time with your child, instilling the habits and values that you wish them to display when they are NOT being supervised by you.  These years will pass by very quickly.

Now, as to the reason why I don't accept children under the age of 5.  Its simply a matter of development.  Children below the ages of 5 generally have the following characteristics:

* becoming adept at motor skills
*some controlled starts and stops in motor movements
*will still have some tantrums
*language is still simplistic
*beginning to understand connection between language and actions, things
*does not readily communicate with peers, as compared to parents
*cannot estimate their own abilities accurately and may try dangerous tricks
*often impatient, and silly
*will change the rules to games while in the middle of play to satisfy need to win

Generally speaking, a child under the age is not yet able to focus for very long on the techniques and direction that is required of martial arts.  Also, they may be resistant to taking the direction, and instead be interested in doing Kung Fu "on their own terms" which cannot be allowed when the focus of the class is respect and self-discipline.  In addition, they may or may not be able to physically perform some of the techniques asked of them.

Between the ages of 5 and 7, a child can expect to see the following developmental milestones:

*able to perform fine motor skills (such as using a writing instrument correctly)
*be able to perform a series of motions in order to do a more complicated motor activity (like martial arts)
*develop more visual-motor coordination
*understands the rules of conversation and is able to talk and listen
*beginnings of being able to estimate own abilities

In short, a child that is at least 5 yrs old is mentally, physically, and emotionally ready to accept and meet the demands that is required of training in our martial arts program.  There are always exceptions to the rule, which is why I always offer a free 2 lesson trial to all students.  In 2 lessons I can tell whether the child is ready to perform what is asked, and if the child truly wants to be at our school. 

best to all,

Sifu Brian

Would you like fries with that?

Had a few phone calls lately that have gone something like this...

"How much are your classes and what time are they?"

Me:  "Well, depending on what type of program you are looking for they can range from..... "

"What time?" (said impatiently)

Me: "Tell me about your child, starting with age and I can tell you which class times are available."

"He's Seven"

Me: "O.K. you can either bring him to a Mon/Wed class at .....   or a Tues/Thurs. class at ......"

"Don't you have anything else?" (in a whining tone)

Me:  "No, ma'am.  These are the available times.  Is there a reason why you would have trouble making it at any of these times?"

"I just wanted something later in the evening - it would be more convenient."


The call ended shortly after.  All I can think to comment is...

I'm sorry ma'am.  I'm sorry that you called and the only thing you were concerned about was the price and time.  I'm sorry that you didn't ask about the program or my credentials.  I'm also sorry that you seem to think that martial arts is just something for your child to do while you shop/have nails done/have alone time.  I'm sorry that although you are available, that my class schedule isn't as convenient for you as you like.  I'm sorry that I don't accommodate every single request that every single parent or customer has.  I'm VERY sorry that you don't seem to understand that the martial arts isn't about doing whatever you want.  In fact, its more about doing things that are sometimes tough, but that help you grow - mentally and physically.  I'm sorry that you have become so accustomed to having everything "your way".  Hmmm...like Burger King.  So I guess all I have left to say is....

Would you like fries with that?