These are great ideas about kindness and empathy. It only takes a little act of kindness towards to anyone to make their day brighter.

I can certainly remember recess at Alta Vista Elementary School in Auburn. It was a good day if I didn’t get picked last for kickball. So, I accept your challenge.

@eclark, This one really hits home. I had a rough time in elementary school. My latter years were particularly rough as I wasn’t particular athletic and I wasn’t into most sports like other kids my age. It actually wasn’t until I moved to Auburn that the bullying stopped and I met an awesome group of friends. As a martial arts teacher, I often see that version of myself in our youngest students. It’s a good reminder that a space like the dojo and their karate training might be their one safe place where they are treated with respect and kindness and are picked first.

Don’t feel alone, I’m a Defensive Pessimist. I think we’re a majority, LOL. I believe I heard this from Tony Robbins. People are motivated by two things; pain and pleasure. Pain is a huge motivator.

What an incredible find! Happy Anniversary!

That’s awesome. What a rewarding memory. You should frame it to remind yourself what you did and what you can still do.

@eclark, I’ll be honest, I’m a little wary when people come to the dojo after training somewhere else. It’s really important to me that students fit in with our school’s culture. When they come from somewhere else, people often bring a lot ‘baggage’ with them from their old dojo or Sensei. I’m so happy to say that you have fit right in from day 1. I appreciate your ability to both recall your previous training yet are still willing to empty your cup to adjust to new ways.