Wednesday, March 30, 2011

PAY IT FORWARD

Miss Anne's Blog for the April Shark Bites Newsletter at Action Karate Newtown 215-820-1082 www.actionnewtown.com

As part of our Black Belt test, each candidate is asked to do a Linked-In Project. The goal of this project is to have each candidate “Pay it Forward” by organizing a personal project to help promote the benefits of Martial Arts training to others. Martial Arts Black Belts have for centuries, passed down their knowledge to beginners as a way to extend the chain of Martial Artists.

Our Black Belt candidates are the FIRST ever from Action Karate Newtown. We are very excited and proud of all they have accomplished in the last three years. Our Junior candidates have learned nine self defense moves and seven katas. Our Adults have learned a whopping 81 moves, and 10 katas. Not to mention all the front kicks, spin kicks, side kicks, chicken kicks, tornado kicks, ax kicks, wheel kicks, roundhouse kicks, crescent kicks, rear kicks, and jump switch front kicks that they all have done. Oh, and the punches and blocks. Millions upon millions. And not only have they learned the art of Kenpo Karate, but they have also demonstrated Determination to make it this far. Focus to learn all the techniques and forms. Self-Discipline to put up with Mr. C’s tough workouts. And Respect for the martial arts and for others. That is a lot of information to “Pay it Forward”. 

Miss Julia has so far raised over $600.00 to sponsor a special needs student to take class here at Action Karate. Miss Jenna has had her Girl Scout troop here for class, and they had a blast! I am writing articles and blogs about my journey to Black Belt. The Howie family is spreading the word about us by attending events around the area. Miss Hope had Mr. C. teach her gym class at her school, Our Lady of Grace. Mr. Brian is having Mr. C teach gym class at his school, Quarry Hill Elementary. Miss Emily is writing an article to the local Mom’s Club Newsletter. Mr. Daniel is having the Demo Team perform at his school’s Hoop-Dee-Do. Mr. Larry is filming a commercial for a local television station. 

Now, I just need to say, that is totally AWESOME. I am so proud of the white belts that walked into our studio when we had blue carpet and gym equipment to move out of the way before class every night. The timid, shy and scared students who now perform in public, work hard and have an amazing amount of respect. Those same white belts work community events , visit nursing homes, help out in the younger classes as Leaders in Training or S.W.A.T. members, work birthday parties, sweep the floor, empty the trash cans, and make copies for us. Amazing families and even more amazing students. We would not be where we are today without hard work and dedication from these first Black Belt Candidates. 

Good luck to all on April 9th.... persistence is key, keep up the AWESOME work both at Action and at home, school, and work.