Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Back seat driving at TKD?

  In the world of martial arts, we are very lucky for many reasons. We enjoy a great job and it is a unique profession that people cannot just walk in and do. We have the joy of working with children and at the same time, usually do not have to worry about over bearing parents who must live their life through their children. Sports like baseball, football, basketball and even gymnastics suffer hugely from the "expert" parents who know so much... However, they can never put forth the time or effort to actually coach, yet have no problem expounding their expertise to everyone within earshot.  Sometimes, individuals will assume the role of coach with the sole intent of "pushing" their child or ensuring their child will be a starting member of the team.  In martial arts, it takes years of practice before you are allowed anywhere near a beginner. That kind of dedication hopefully weeds out those types.
  If it is all so wonderful why do I bring it up? I do so because while this is the rule, there are always exceptions. If your child had a broken arm, and you were a CPA would you explain to the doctor how to reset the arm? If you had this ability why visit the doctor in the first place? The same goes for martial arts. I am a teacher and still a student.  I love suggestions. I love questions. I live to find new ways to make my students better martial artists, but I am the one who has devoted years of training and practice to do this. Our school has open classes and encourage families to come and watch we do not encourage you to come and coach. Our openness and welcoming nature is not a weakness. It is a strength. It is our confidence in our methods and experience that allow us to invite you to watch. Trust in our instruction.  It is why you came to us in the first place. Help us guide your loved ones to their individual martial arts goals.

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