As I entered the dojang at Jung SuWon Martial Art Academy, I had very little idea what this day would be like. But when Great Grandmaster Tae Yun Kim appeared, I knew it would be a fabulous day. Even though she is small physically, when she walked in, it was like a giant appeared. Her presence and energy drives excitement through the students.
The parents and guests sit on the edge of their seats, as they watch their children not only overcome the physical challenges of the martial arts, but the larger emotional and mental obstacles of their life. They watch their children grow and change right in front of their eyes. They learn responsibility. They learn about a positive mental attitude. They learn about meditation, and how it can reduce stress in their lives. They learn about choosing their friends to keep them out of trouble. Most of these kids were 6-13 years old. Tears of pain and tears of joy filled the dojang, but always surrounded by the larger blanket of learning and love.
Parents spoke proudly about their children, and the children expressed their love and honor for their families. It was a 5 hr growth fest. Families grew closer to each other. Bonds between instructors and students deepen, and Great Grandmaster Tae Yun Kim orchestrated it all. It was a fabulous event.
It re-energized me more then ever. Not often, as a teacher, do you get to sit back and see the fruits of your labors teaching and helping others. What a fulfilling moment. Thank you Great Grandmaster Tae Yun Kim for brightening my life and the lives of all those people at the Testing that day. Thank you so much for letting me and all of us participate. I know I can never be as great as teacher as you, but I will aspire to all your goals and ideas.
It is a great honor to be your student. Thank you with all my heart. I will turn all that gratitude energy, into action, and increase my desire and discipline to pass on your teachings to others. Jung Su!
