In retrospect, I’ve done quite a bit. No brag. I’ve achieved 3 black belts. A 2nd 6th and a 7th. I’m the Commissioner of PA in the Tri State Traditional Karate Association. I was the regional assistant director of the USAKF. I’m the Co Chairman and one of the founders of the Warriors United. I’ve trained with many many masters both as a regular student and also under many many masters as a seminar attendee. I’m a many time Gold medalist in the district region and nationals of the USA Karate Association. I’ve won over 100 trophies. Most recently competed and won 1st against a 10th degree black belt. I’ve could do over 100 pushups when I turned 60 and did 11001 pushups in a month and over 1000 in 1 day.
Not enough. I think I could of done better. Often I went to tournaments in less than optimal shape. Often I didn’t practice enough. I’ve forgotten my kata in competition because I didn’t practice enough. I’ve lost fights because I’ve lost my cool and got disqualified. I could have done a lot more.
What do I take away from my negative statements?
I don’t know if you could say I did great but I did enough to be better than average. If you are consistent and never give up. If you keep showing up for class and focus and try hard it pays off. You can always do more but have you done enough. Right now, at my age it’s about what can I do for others but when you look back as I am doing, ask yourself am I doing enough? Practice your combination, kata and weapons at home and wherever you can. Stretch, do pushups and situps, run walk, jumping jacks or cardio.
When you get tired do a little more. Then maybe you have done enough!
