Hi Sensei,
In the world of combat and martial arts a known strategy is to show something and then take it away. For example, in classical martial arts, a savvy practitioner may show an opening or possible weakness to get the opponent to react and attack to that specific area. This strategy works because once you know what a person is going to do, it is easy to set up successful actions or counter attacks. This is the basis of the ambush and has been effectively used for centuries.
One such example would be to practice over and over again an instantaneous high block and counter to a high degree where it would be almost impossible to stop it once it was implemented. The next thing would be to "set up" your opponent by leaving an opening by maybe dropping your guard thus baiting the high attack. As soon as you see movement, you know where the attack is heading and a simultaneous counter attack is launched. The timing of the taking away of the perceived opportunity and the launching of the counter attack is the key to success.
This same strategy works in business, marketing and sales. As we see economic conditions change, more and more people are cutting prices and fighting for their small piece of the market share. At the same time there are businesses that position themselves with a unique USP and especially those that focus on the affluent market are using the take away approach and are doing well. Demonstrating the attitude that our product or service is not for everyone, and that we are very selective about who we pick to do business with is a powerful strategy. Not only will you be able to work with the top 10% of customers that will respect you and your business, you will also quickly start creating a waiting list of people asking to become members instead of fighting with your competitors over the bottom 20% of cheap customers.
In advertising you see the scarcity or limited offer used a lot... because it works. Words like "while supplies last" or having a date such as "price good only until July 3rd at noon" are all effective strategies that will boost your response in your marketing pieces.
There indeed is real scarcity, such as in your time management techniques. As you get more efficient in managing your time and making sure that you spend time on the most important business and personal activities, you will learn to limit your time with who Dan Kennedy identifies as time vampires. Time is one of the most precious things you can have and requires each of us to manage it well and spend our time wisely and at the same time avoiding time wasted on useless activities. This mandates that you set up your business in a certain way, choose your customers and inner circle wisely and set systems to get rid of people you don't want to do business with.
In a recent day I spent with Dan Kennedy, we spent a lot of time focusing on who I wanted to spend my time with, who my ideal customer is and how to target that audience while at the same time screen out the ones that I do not want to be associated with. In reference to many of my consulting clients that complain that business is slow and it seems that their prospects don't have money to buy, I suggest to you who picked them as prospects? Maybe you should start fishing in another pond.
If you are in business for yourself, and in reality we are all in the marketing and sales business, then it is up to you to understand and visualize your perfect business and then make it a reality. How many customers do you want? At what price point? What are their attitudes?
Once you have identified your perfect customer and implemented good marketing campaigns, you will find that your sales staff spends a lot of their time screening away the ones you don't want to do business with. Running a successful business and quality of life is an achievable goal if you plan it right.
To Your Success,
Terry Bryan, President
Warriorwiz Wealth Academy
Thursday, June 19, 2008
From Iraq!
Good morning George,
How are you doing? I hope all is well.
I am in Iraq now working on the MRAP (Mine Resitant Ambush Protected) Vehicle Program.
I am interested in a couple more of your books. What is the best way to purchase them?
Thank you
John
How are you doing? I hope all is well.
I am in Iraq now working on the MRAP (Mine Resitant Ambush Protected) Vehicle Program.
I am interested in a couple more of your books. What is the best way to purchase them?
Thank you
John
From India
Dear Sensei,
I received lot of news letters from you thanks for your letters it is helpfull for me.
I am a Shodan student in the style of Uechi-ryu/Shohei-ryu karate do and our Dojo name is Pathfinder Karate Dojo-India my Sensei Name is S.Balasubramanian.
Regards
C.V.Nishok
Pathfinder Karate Dojo-India
I received lot of news letters from you thanks for your letters it is helpfull for me.
I am a Shodan student in the style of Uechi-ryu/Shohei-ryu karate do and our Dojo name is Pathfinder Karate Dojo-India my Sensei Name is S.Balasubramanian.
Regards
C.V.Nishok
Pathfinder Karate Dojo-India
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Skills. . .
Hi Sensei,
There is an old Shaolin Monk saying which described the legendary Shaolin Monks as having incredible abilities, almost mystic in nature:
"When Looked For Could Not be Seen,
When Felt For Could Not Be Touched,
When listened for Could Not be Heard...
In reality, their incredible skills were developing the ability to see what others did not see and to hear what others did not hear. This ability is called Zanshin in Japanese which means total awareness and probably best described in English as intuition. The Latin translation of intuition is best described as "in to you" and it describes the process of taking information from the outside world and bringing that with meaning into your knowledge base. Two people can see the same thing and have completely different things. The ability to see the little things is the real difference between success and failure.
I survived 3 combat tours in South East Asia because I indeed developed a sense of awareness. As a dog handler, I learned early on to depend on the dog's eyes and ears because he could see and hear things I could not which in many situations made a difference between life and death. There were other things I had the ability to hear but did not understand and yet later became second nature to my survival. For example, at time the insects and small animals would go silent, almost undetectable to the average person, but to the trained warrior you knew that meant that someone was approaching. These little signs are everywhere and many times become instinct even if you don't know exactly what is cause your "Gut Feeling".
These subtle signs are everywhere from personal relationships to successful business operations. In many of the mastermind groups I belong to, one of the most valuable information you walk away with is developing the ability to see something in the eyes of another person, especially a successful person in a field you are interested in.
With the help of many mentors and coaches over the years, I have now developed the ability to look at a real estate investment opportunity or a business and very quickly identify the issues needed to correct to improve performance. Much like the times I spent working with elite athletes and helping them reach their peak performance, many times it takes just a few minor adjustments.
To develop your inner awareness it is important to work on detachment and seeing things the way they really are, not how you wished them to be. Once you understand the truth, or as my mentor Dan Kennedy would say, "The NO BS Truth" then you can create realistic goals and action plans. Later you can use your mental powers to create the future that you desire.
Don't ever underestimate your abilities to feel the truth or what is called the 6th sense. In my opinion, women have developed this to a higher level than men and because of this, if Diana ever tells me something just doesn't feel right, I will stop... go back and relook at everything before making a decision.
I think martial artists are good at developing this awareness because of their relaxation or mediation techniques most styles use. By letting the mind go a few minutes a day, you let the subconscious take over and grow. Many people have found that if they ever have a problem that during the meditation process the answer comes to them, or maybe taking a walk and thinking of something else completely, that all of a sudden it just comes to them out of nowhere.
Once you learn to combine the ability to sense or feel the right solution; combined with the specialized knowledge you get from hanging out with other successful people, you will be amazed of your achievements. While getting the specialized knowledge you need in the field you are working on is important, don't neglect training your inner self. You may indeed discover your most powerful weapon of all.
To Your Success,
Terry Bryan, Warriorwiz
There is an old Shaolin Monk saying which described the legendary Shaolin Monks as having incredible abilities, almost mystic in nature:
"When Looked For Could Not be Seen,
When Felt For Could Not Be Touched,
When listened for Could Not be Heard...
In reality, their incredible skills were developing the ability to see what others did not see and to hear what others did not hear. This ability is called Zanshin in Japanese which means total awareness and probably best described in English as intuition. The Latin translation of intuition is best described as "in to you" and it describes the process of taking information from the outside world and bringing that with meaning into your knowledge base. Two people can see the same thing and have completely different things. The ability to see the little things is the real difference between success and failure.
I survived 3 combat tours in South East Asia because I indeed developed a sense of awareness. As a dog handler, I learned early on to depend on the dog's eyes and ears because he could see and hear things I could not which in many situations made a difference between life and death. There were other things I had the ability to hear but did not understand and yet later became second nature to my survival. For example, at time the insects and small animals would go silent, almost undetectable to the average person, but to the trained warrior you knew that meant that someone was approaching. These little signs are everywhere and many times become instinct even if you don't know exactly what is cause your "Gut Feeling".
These subtle signs are everywhere from personal relationships to successful business operations. In many of the mastermind groups I belong to, one of the most valuable information you walk away with is developing the ability to see something in the eyes of another person, especially a successful person in a field you are interested in.
With the help of many mentors and coaches over the years, I have now developed the ability to look at a real estate investment opportunity or a business and very quickly identify the issues needed to correct to improve performance. Much like the times I spent working with elite athletes and helping them reach their peak performance, many times it takes just a few minor adjustments.
To develop your inner awareness it is important to work on detachment and seeing things the way they really are, not how you wished them to be. Once you understand the truth, or as my mentor Dan Kennedy would say, "The NO BS Truth" then you can create realistic goals and action plans. Later you can use your mental powers to create the future that you desire.
Don't ever underestimate your abilities to feel the truth or what is called the 6th sense. In my opinion, women have developed this to a higher level than men and because of this, if Diana ever tells me something just doesn't feel right, I will stop... go back and relook at everything before making a decision.
I think martial artists are good at developing this awareness because of their relaxation or mediation techniques most styles use. By letting the mind go a few minutes a day, you let the subconscious take over and grow. Many people have found that if they ever have a problem that during the meditation process the answer comes to them, or maybe taking a walk and thinking of something else completely, that all of a sudden it just comes to them out of nowhere.
Once you learn to combine the ability to sense or feel the right solution; combined with the specialized knowledge you get from hanging out with other successful people, you will be amazed of your achievements. While getting the specialized knowledge you need in the field you are working on is important, don't neglect training your inner self. You may indeed discover your most powerful weapon of all.
To Your Success,
Terry Bryan, Warriorwiz
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Newsletter feedback. . .
Very good article Sensei. Of course, should we expect anything less from you? Osu!
May I chime in on a variation of your themes? I see you mention it a bit. I am talking more off angle attacks and defenses? 45 degrees, 180, etc. responses to attacks to teach changing directions (Oops there is a wall behind me!) The attacker will come at you from what would be considered a "surprise" attack while building peripheral vision, etc.
Your thoughts?
Osu.
S. Nieves
Your suggestions would fit nicely into the "progression" drill options. One should feel comfortable moving in all directions. . . keeping in mind the position of your opponent and the options for defense your movements present.
Best,
George
May I chime in on a variation of your themes? I see you mention it a bit. I am talking more off angle attacks and defenses? 45 degrees, 180, etc. responses to attacks to teach changing directions (Oops there is a wall behind me!) The attacker will come at you from what would be considered a "surprise" attack while building peripheral vision, etc.
Your thoughts?
Osu.
S. Nieves
Your suggestions would fit nicely into the "progression" drill options. One should feel comfortable moving in all directions. . . keeping in mind the position of your opponent and the options for defense your movements present.
Best,
George
Wow! Another Karate "First". . .
Sensei George.
I sure appreciate your newsletter. I admire you immensely.
Hey, I flat-lined on the operating table last week. Went in for surgery on my left ear to correct an hereditary problem that had caused substantial hearing loss. Whatever anesthesia they injected me with caused my heart to code five minutes into the operation. They gave CPR for four minutes. They later did full-body-scan tests, stress tests, ultra-sound, etc. My heart strength registered at 75...the average person's is in the 60's. And this was after all I had been through. Doctors are amazed not only at that, but the fact that I have had no soreness in the chest whatsoever. Dr. Doug Wunderly, a cardiologist in Kalamazoo and a long-time karate student of Sensei Thompson's, figures that years of karate training is the reason why. The tests show no damage was done.
Cheers,
Jim Gemmell
I sure appreciate your newsletter. I admire you immensely.
Hey, I flat-lined on the operating table last week. Went in for surgery on my left ear to correct an hereditary problem that had caused substantial hearing loss. Whatever anesthesia they injected me with caused my heart to code five minutes into the operation. They gave CPR for four minutes. They later did full-body-scan tests, stress tests, ultra-sound, etc. My heart strength registered at 75...the average person's is in the 60's. And this was after all I had been through. Doctors are amazed not only at that, but the fact that I have had no soreness in the chest whatsoever. Dr. Doug Wunderly, a cardiologist in Kalamazoo and a long-time karate student of Sensei Thompson's, figures that years of karate training is the reason why. The tests show no damage was done.
Cheers,
Jim Gemmell
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
News from Duncan MacLeod!
Hi George;
It's been a while since we have talked and I apologize.After hearing your message on my phone this a.m.,It hit home just how long it really has been.Unfortunately I do have a legit reason that seems logical to me.In the past 4.5 years I have had three total hip operations.
The first was Sept.03 the last one was Sept.07.So needless to say I've been a bit preoccupied with my health problems,and oh by the way some residual depression.This has definitely been the hardest hurdle I've had to get over in my life.BUT I am hanging in there.I'm still teaching and only stopped long enough to have my ops, 5 weeks rehab in each case.Although I had to semi retire because I could not keep up with the demand of more than 1 class a night a couple nights a week.
I had a very active club happening,including a world class kickboxing program,with fighters who competed all over the world and won silver and bronze medals in international tournaments. Hence the residual depression knowing that I no longer can be who I used to be on the same physical level. BUT as I said I am hanging in there.I also see that Vinnie is due for a hip replacement operation soon. Please tell him good luck and to get back on the horse as soon as he can because it is the best therapy.
I will call you in the next couple of days because I find it so hard to express myself in this form of media. My e-mail address should be attached to this so I will be very easy to contact in the future. Also I may try to get to the Summer Camp this year, something that is long over due. It may only be for Friday night and Saturday,with departure Sunday. Hopefully you still allow day trippers.I may even try to convince Dave Hunt to make the trip with me. Anyway take care and you will be hearing from me in the next few days.
It's been a while since we have talked and I apologize.After hearing your message on my phone this a.m.,It hit home just how long it really has been.Unfortunately I do have a legit reason that seems logical to me.In the past 4.5 years I have had three total hip operations.
The first was Sept.03 the last one was Sept.07.So needless to say I've been a bit preoccupied with my health problems,and oh by the way some residual depression.This has definitely been the hardest hurdle I've had to get over in my life.BUT I am hanging in there.I'm still teaching and only stopped long enough to have my ops, 5 weeks rehab in each case.Although I had to semi retire because I could not keep up with the demand of more than 1 class a night a couple nights a week.
I had a very active club happening,including a world class kickboxing program,with fighters who competed all over the world and won silver and bronze medals in international tournaments. Hence the residual depression knowing that I no longer can be who I used to be on the same physical level. BUT as I said I am hanging in there.I also see that Vinnie is due for a hip replacement operation soon. Please tell him good luck and to get back on the horse as soon as he can because it is the best therapy.
I will call you in the next couple of days because I find it so hard to express myself in this form of media. My e-mail address should be attached to this so I will be very easy to contact in the future. Also I may try to get to the Summer Camp this year, something that is long over due. It may only be for Friday night and Saturday,with departure Sunday. Hopefully you still allow day trippers.I may even try to convince Dave Hunt to make the trip with me. Anyway take care and you will be hearing from me in the next few days.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
From Tiger Martial Arts
Hi Sensei George!
I wanted to share a picture of TMA's black belts! I have 4 of them coming to Uechi Camp this year!!! Though we are the only "official" Uechi dojo in Washington that I know of - I just wanted you to know that we are thriving and spreading Uechi Ryu! Our goal is to make Whidbey Island - Uechi Island! We are up to 115 students!
In the picture:
Back row: Carole Hansen - Shodan, Corey Henderson - Shodan, Nick Bibich - Sandan, Jennee Bouthillier - Shodan, Sarah Kelso - Shodan
Front row: Mike Buxton - Shodan, Sensei Fedele Cacia, Wendi Barker - Yondan, Desire McDaniel - Shodan
Thank you for Uechi Ryu!
Wendi
Tiger Martial Arts
(360)331-5619
www.tigermartialarts.info
Looking for Sensei
Hi Mr. Mattson,
Anyone looking for a good Uechi Ryu Dojo in SW Florida, check out the Uechi Ryu dojo in Fort Myers, Florida that was started by Keosh Bass, and has been continued by his wife Renshi Bass (of the Uechi Ryu Association of America) after his passing. You can also learn Kendo and Iaido. Here is the link: www.bushi-kan.com
I am currently stuck in Miami, but none the less it is awesome to be able to email you,and it would be awesome to meet you some day, your wisdom is respected by many (as i'm sure you know). I haven't been able to train in a dojo in awhile, but I always try to keep myself active with strikes and so forth.
Thanks for your time,
Roderick
Anyone looking for a good Uechi Ryu Dojo in SW Florida, check out the Uechi Ryu dojo in Fort Myers, Florida that was started by Keosh Bass, and has been continued by his wife Renshi Bass (of the Uechi Ryu Association of America) after his passing. You can also learn Kendo and Iaido. Here is the link: www.bushi-kan.com
I am currently stuck in Miami, but none the less it is awesome to be able to email you,and it would be awesome to meet you some day, your wisdom is respected by many (as i'm sure you know). I haven't been able to train in a dojo in awhile, but I always try to keep myself active with strikes and so forth.
Thanks for your time,
Roderick
From Mike Zwerdling
For his friends with High Cholesterol:
Not knowing which of my friends were using statins, the most commonly prescribed anti-cholesterol agent, I sent this "mass mailing" to everyone in my personal address book. If you use an anti-cholesterol drug, please read on. If not, please excuse me. If you're not sure, here's the listing for the generic and brand names of the most commonly used statins. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statin
After doing my own search on this topic, I have concluded that if you take any of the statins, you should be taking Coenzyme Q - 10 (CO-Q10, CQ10, etc.) along with it. Here's one fairly definitive study. If you don't want to read all 22 pages of the article, just read the intro which includes the mine point summary.
http://www.fda.gov/OHRMS/DOCKETS/dailys/02/May02/052902/02p-0244-cp00001-02-Exhibit_A-vol1.pdf
Although most studies I've read list the drug amount (usually 100 mg per day) given to the test subjects, they fail to mention the effectiveness of smaller dosages. Since 100 mg seems to work, and since I can find few studies which indicate that less than 100 mg/day works, I suggest 100 mg per day unless you can find studies which indicate otherwise, and if you do, please let me know about them. There are sufficient studies probing for toxic levels and 100 mg seems to be far below the dosages creating noticeable side effects or toxicity.
Of course as with all OTC drugs, you cannot be 100% certain what available amount of the primary ingredient is contained in the formula, nor what the shelf life is. Given that the drug is not particularly expensive to manufacture, (there's a tremendous markup at the retail level) you may wish simply to rely on the reputation of the distributor when choosing which brand to buy. I personally buy online from Puritan's Pride. http://www.puritan.com/ They are much, much cheaper than Walgreen's, CVS or even Wal-Mart. Three 60 tab bottles cost $23.86 or about 7½ per pill. Locally, the best price was $19.95 for a meager 30 pills, for a whopping $1.50 per pill.
Another online source with a good reputation is Vitamin Shoppe, which has some local brick and mortar stores as well. http://www.vitaminshoppe.com
Not knowing which of my friends were using statins, the most commonly prescribed anti-cholesterol agent, I sent this "mass mailing" to everyone in my personal address book. If you use an anti-cholesterol drug, please read on. If not, please excuse me. If you're not sure, here's the listing for the generic and brand names of the most commonly used statins. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statin
After doing my own search on this topic, I have concluded that if you take any of the statins, you should be taking Coenzyme Q - 10 (CO-Q10, CQ10, etc.) along with it. Here's one fairly definitive study. If you don't want to read all 22 pages of the article, just read the intro which includes the mine point summary.
http://www.fda.gov/OHRMS/DOCKETS/dailys/02/May02/052902/02p-0244-cp00001-02-Exhibit_A-vol1.pdf
Although most studies I've read list the drug amount (usually 100 mg per day) given to the test subjects, they fail to mention the effectiveness of smaller dosages. Since 100 mg seems to work, and since I can find few studies which indicate that less than 100 mg/day works, I suggest 100 mg per day unless you can find studies which indicate otherwise, and if you do, please let me know about them. There are sufficient studies probing for toxic levels and 100 mg seems to be far below the dosages creating noticeable side effects or toxicity.
Of course as with all OTC drugs, you cannot be 100% certain what available amount of the primary ingredient is contained in the formula, nor what the shelf life is. Given that the drug is not particularly expensive to manufacture, (there's a tremendous markup at the retail level) you may wish simply to rely on the reputation of the distributor when choosing which brand to buy. I personally buy online from Puritan's Pride. http://www.puritan.com/ They are much, much cheaper than Walgreen's, CVS or even Wal-Mart. Three 60 tab bottles cost $23.86 or about 7½ per pill. Locally, the best price was $19.95 for a meager 30 pills, for a whopping $1.50 per pill.
Another online source with a good reputation is Vitamin Shoppe, which has some local brick and mortar stores as well. http://www.vitaminshoppe.com
From Duncan MacLeod
Hi George; > It's been a while since we have talked and I apologize.After hearing your message on my phone this a.m.,It hit home just how long it really has been.Unfortunately I do have a legit reason that seems logical to me.In the past 4.5 years I have had three total hip operations. The first was Sept.03 the last one was Sept.07.So needless to say I've been a bit preoccupied with my health problems,and oh by the way some residual depression.This has definitely been the hardest hurdle I've had to get over in my life.BUT I am hanging in there.I'm still teaching and only stopped long enough to have my ops, 5 weeks rehab in each case.Although I had to semi retire because I could not keep up with the demand of more than 1 class a night a couple nights a week.I had a very active club happening,including a world class kickboxing program,with fighters who competed all over the world and won silver and bronze medals in international tournaments.Hence the residual depression knowing that I no longer can be who I used to be on the same physical level.BUT as I said I am hanging in there.I also see that Vinnie is due for a hip replacement operation soon.Please tell him good luck and to get back on the horse as soon as he can because it is the best therapy.I will call you in the next couple of days because I find it so hard to express myself i n this form of media.My e-mail address should be attached to this so I will be very easy to contact in the future.Also I may try to get to the Summer Camp this year, something that is long over due.It may only be for Friday night and Saturday,with departure Sunday.Hopefully you still allow day trippers.I may even try to convince Dave Hunt to make the trip with me.Anyway take care and you will be hearing from me in the next few days.
Bruce Witherell "Presenting" at SummerFest this year
George, The self-defense theme for camp is right up my ally. I would also like to present my Ju-kumite at the masters celebration as my thesis. This is something I developed about 15 years ago and I teach it at all of my self- defense classes. It's a great combination of Uechi techniques and ju-jitsu. I know you have seen it a few times and I'm sure you remember it.
Bruce
Bruce
Mike Black - formally from Boston area...
I'm sure this will be a great tournament
======================================
Dear Sensei Mattson:
It would be an honor if you could attend our event on Saturday, June 14th in Gainesville, Florida. Our headmaster from Kagoshima, Japan, Iwao Tamotsu will be there along with karateka from USA, Puerto Rico, Dominican, Panama and Mexico.
Let me know if you might be able to visit us. Thank you.
Mike Black
Renshinkan Karate
352-264-0205
352-332-0236
======================================
Dear Sensei Mattson:
It would be an honor if you could attend our event on Saturday, June 14th in Gainesville, Florida. Our headmaster from Kagoshima, Japan, Iwao Tamotsu will be there along with karateka from USA, Puerto Rico, Dominican, Panama and Mexico.
Let me know if you might be able to visit us. Thank you.
Mike Black
Renshinkan Karate
352-264-0205
352-332-0236
So many people are complaining...
they can't find anything on my uechi-ryu.com site, so my favorite student sent me this:
Remember you can always refer people to www.GeorgeEMattson.com
I designed the website with people in mind who have trouble finding things on your website. There are very easy to find, direct links to the Summerfest Application, Virtual Dojo, IUKF membership and your store. It is very easy to negogiate and I get compliments on it all the time.
Missed you this week at class.
Patty
Remember you can always refer people to www.GeorgeEMattson.com
I designed the website with people in mind who have trouble finding things on your website. There are very easy to find, direct links to the Summerfest Application, Virtual Dojo, IUKF membership and your store. It is very easy to negogiate and I get compliments on it all the time.
Missed you this week at class.
Patty
Looking for Sensei
DEAR MR. MATTSON:
MY NAME AND ADDRESS IS AS FOLLOWS:
WILLIAM J. MURRAY
621 ROSA COURT
PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLORIDA 33410
IN THE YEAR 1997 I STUDIED UECHI-RYU WITH SENSEI DON BAKER AT GOLD'S GYM IN PALM BEACH GARDENS FLORIDA. ON AUGUST 21, 1997 I WAS AWARDED THE RANK OF 5TH KYU GREENBELT BY THE UNITED STATES UECHI RYU KARATAE ASSOCIATION.
I AM CURENTLY RE-LEARNING FROM YOUR BOOK UECHIRYU KARATE DO AND FROM VIDEO TAPES BY ROD MIDLIN AND PANTHER PRODUCTIONS. HOWEVER, I FEEL THAT I NEED IN PERSON TRAINING INSTRUCTION.
I WOULD APPRECIATE YOUR ASSISTANCE IN LOCATING SENSEI DON BAKER OR ADVISING ME OF THE NEAREST LOCATION THAT I COULD RECEIVE INSTRUCTION.
THANKING YOU IN ADVANCE
WILLILAM J. MURRAY
MY NAME AND ADDRESS IS AS FOLLOWS:
WILLIAM J. MURRAY
621 ROSA COURT
PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLORIDA 33410
IN THE YEAR 1997 I STUDIED UECHI-RYU WITH SENSEI DON BAKER AT GOLD'S GYM IN PALM BEACH GARDENS FLORIDA. ON AUGUST 21, 1997 I WAS AWARDED THE RANK OF 5TH KYU GREENBELT BY THE UNITED STATES UECHI RYU KARATAE ASSOCIATION.
I AM CURENTLY RE-LEARNING FROM YOUR BOOK UECHIRYU KARATE DO AND FROM VIDEO TAPES BY ROD MIDLIN AND PANTHER PRODUCTIONS. HOWEVER, I FEEL THAT I NEED IN PERSON TRAINING INSTRUCTION.
I WOULD APPRECIATE YOUR ASSISTANCE IN LOCATING SENSEI DON BAKER OR ADVISING ME OF THE NEAREST LOCATION THAT I COULD RECEIVE INSTRUCTION.
THANKING YOU IN ADVANCE
WILLILAM J. MURRAY
Real Martial Artist!
Inner Training/Outer Training.
I remember a lesson my Sensei once taught me when I was about twelve or thirteen.
We had this sort of 'inner-circle' group of very serious people that I was about to be welcomed into, people in the group called it 'Warrior's Journey' and one of the books we had to read as part of the initial entrance was 'Way of the Peaceful Warrior' by Dan Millman.
At the time I didn't really understand it, but after so many years since then, things have really sunk in.
The lesson in question was about sweeping the floor. Bud Cook Sensei, the Chief Instructor of the Aikido Program at the Evergreen Learning Center was sweeping the Dojo floor, Sensei told me to go take the broom from him and sweep myself, to share the responsibility of Dojo cleaning, he compared it to Shoji, or Temple Cleaning in Zen Buddhist Temples.
I hesitated, I asked Cook Sensei if he would like me to do the sweeping, he said no and continued to sweep the floor, unsure of myself, I simply backed away, taking his word for it.
Sensei got up, took the broom from Cook Sensei and swept the floor in his place, I did not understand the meaning of the lesson at that time, I think I was a bit too young to understand the deeper aspects or the magnitude of the journey on which I was about to embark.
Karate, for me, had been more about tournaments and sport, something interesting to do after school and a group of friends to do it with.
Kata, at that time, was a dance used to gain points the way they do with forms in Gymnastics, and sparring was something completely different, neither one seemed to coincide, but again, I was too young to think twice about any of it.
That all changed very quickly, and it did not take long for me to begin to question the way things were done.
Now I realize the lesson behind sweeping the floor in Sensei's place. It was not about respecting their authority, although I am certain this was an aspect of it, but it was more about my hesitation to do so.
If I hesitated in grabbing the broom, how can I expect to respond quickly and effectively in other areas, whether they are fighting, working, or anything else.
It is about training the mind as much as training the body. If the mind is hesitant, uncertain, whatever the case may be, then it will reflect not only in Karate technique, but every other aspect of life as well.
You will not be able to land a powerful strike, you will not be able to execute an effective lock or escape or throw, your body will be broken, you will be out of harmony with yourself.
In other areas you might not perform well at your job, which will effect that next promotion or pay raise, it will effect how you drive a car, how you walk down the street, how you interact with others, even in the smallest way.
In training we not only seek to be effective Karateka, we seek to be effective human beings.
We seek to eliminate this sort of thing from every aspect of our lives, to delve into things with the ferocity, focus, and indomitable spirit of a warrior on a battlefield.
This, too, will reflect not only in our Karate, but in EVERY SINGLE ASPECT OF OUR LIVES.
These days this sort of thing seems to be overlooked in many schools, both traditional and non-traditional alike.
People think it is all physical, they work their muscles, they train their bodies hard, but neglect the internal aspect of training altogether. This is only half a Karateka.
There is a huge difference between a mere fighter and a Martial Artist, and that difference is in how much they train or do not train in the above aspect.
I remember a lesson my Sensei once taught me when I was about twelve or thirteen.
We had this sort of 'inner-circle' group of very serious people that I was about to be welcomed into, people in the group called it 'Warrior's Journey' and one of the books we had to read as part of the initial entrance was 'Way of the Peaceful Warrior' by Dan Millman.
At the time I didn't really understand it, but after so many years since then, things have really sunk in.
The lesson in question was about sweeping the floor. Bud Cook Sensei, the Chief Instructor of the Aikido Program at the Evergreen Learning Center was sweeping the Dojo floor, Sensei told me to go take the broom from him and sweep myself, to share the responsibility of Dojo cleaning, he compared it to Shoji, or Temple Cleaning in Zen Buddhist Temples.
I hesitated, I asked Cook Sensei if he would like me to do the sweeping, he said no and continued to sweep the floor, unsure of myself, I simply backed away, taking his word for it.
Sensei got up, took the broom from Cook Sensei and swept the floor in his place, I did not understand the meaning of the lesson at that time, I think I was a bit too young to understand the deeper aspects or the magnitude of the journey on which I was about to embark.
Karate, for me, had been more about tournaments and sport, something interesting to do after school and a group of friends to do it with.
Kata, at that time, was a dance used to gain points the way they do with forms in Gymnastics, and sparring was something completely different, neither one seemed to coincide, but again, I was too young to think twice about any of it.
That all changed very quickly, and it did not take long for me to begin to question the way things were done.
Now I realize the lesson behind sweeping the floor in Sensei's place. It was not about respecting their authority, although I am certain this was an aspect of it, but it was more about my hesitation to do so.
If I hesitated in grabbing the broom, how can I expect to respond quickly and effectively in other areas, whether they are fighting, working, or anything else.
It is about training the mind as much as training the body. If the mind is hesitant, uncertain, whatever the case may be, then it will reflect not only in Karate technique, but every other aspect of life as well.
You will not be able to land a powerful strike, you will not be able to execute an effective lock or escape or throw, your body will be broken, you will be out of harmony with yourself.
In other areas you might not perform well at your job, which will effect that next promotion or pay raise, it will effect how you drive a car, how you walk down the street, how you interact with others, even in the smallest way.
In training we not only seek to be effective Karateka, we seek to be effective human beings.
We seek to eliminate this sort of thing from every aspect of our lives, to delve into things with the ferocity, focus, and indomitable spirit of a warrior on a battlefield.
This, too, will reflect not only in our Karate, but in EVERY SINGLE ASPECT OF OUR LIVES.
These days this sort of thing seems to be overlooked in many schools, both traditional and non-traditional alike.
People think it is all physical, they work their muscles, they train their bodies hard, but neglect the internal aspect of training altogether. This is only half a Karateka.
There is a huge difference between a mere fighter and a Martial Artist, and that difference is in how much they train or do not train in the above aspect.
Remember Mike Black??
George: If I remember, I came in 4th place in black belt fighting at your 1971 or 1972 tournament in Boston. I was the only one in the whole tournament that had to go to the hospital (Dennis Passeretti broke my glasses that cut me over my eye). Ahhh the good old days....lol. Plus Joe Campisi (my instructor) and I always tried to attend your events whenever possible.
Let me know anytime you might want to visit the Gainesville area. My wife Angela (a former George Pesare student), cooks a mean lasagna.
Mike Black
George Mattson wrote:
> OK. . . Now I remember you!
>
> :)
>
> Best,
> George
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Michael Black [mailto:mblack@gator.net]
> Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2008 9:19 AM
> To: George Mattson
> Subject: Re: Tounament
>
> Sensei Mattson:
>
> Thank you for your response. Say hi to everyone up in New England for
> me. I have many fond memories of my battles with some of your students.
> I really loved getting beaten up by the likes of Jim Maloney and Bob
> Bethony but at least I gave them their money's worth. Make sure you
> have some of that great lobster up there.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Mike Black
>
> George Mattson wrote:
>
>> Hi Mike:
>>
>> Many thanks for your kind invitation. I'm scheduled to be in New
>> England on the 16^th , but if I can get back to Florida early, I'd be
>> honored to attend your tournament.
>>
>> I've posted your announcement in my dojo and a couple of my black
>> belts said they will be attending.
>>
>> Good luck with your tournament and please stay in touch.
>>
>> Best,
>>
>> George Mattson
Let me know anytime you might want to visit the Gainesville area. My wife Angela (a former George Pesare student), cooks a mean lasagna.
Mike Black
George Mattson wrote:
> OK. . . Now I remember you!
>
> :)
>
> Best,
> George
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Michael Black [mailto:mblack@gator.net]
> Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2008 9:19 AM
> To: George Mattson
> Subject: Re: Tounament
>
> Sensei Mattson:
>
> Thank you for your response. Say hi to everyone up in New England for
> me. I have many fond memories of my battles with some of your students.
> I really loved getting beaten up by the likes of Jim Maloney and Bob
> Bethony but at least I gave them their money's worth. Make sure you
> have some of that great lobster up there.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Mike Black
>
> George Mattson wrote:
>
>> Hi Mike:
>>
>> Many thanks for your kind invitation. I'm scheduled to be in New
>> England on the 16^th , but if I can get back to Florida early, I'd be
>> honored to attend your tournament.
>>
>> I've posted your announcement in my dojo and a couple of my black
>> belts said they will be attending.
>>
>> Good luck with your tournament and please stay in touch.
>>
>> Best,
>>
>> George Mattson
Hi From Andy Hanson...
Hi George -
For some totally odd reason I was wondering what ever happened to
Harry Brawley, googled him and found that you had moved to Florida
and had become a blogosphere of your own! I'll actually be in Boston
Sunday and Monday, and had been wondering if you would still be there,
but it seems not.
Anyway, I'm doing fine, still work out (in the middle of a long jog) several
times a week, though I do just the basic three kata slowly and strongly so as to
maintain the aging joints in good shape. Check out my web page - you
might still recognize me - you look the same as ever in your photo :-)
http://www.cs.indiana.edu/~hanson/
Take care - hope you are well.
Best wishes, Andy Hanson
(from all the way back at Columbus Avenue,
with Dave Ruth and Dick Philbrick, all recruited to Uechi-Ryu
by Will Zachman as I recall)
For some totally odd reason I was wondering what ever happened to
Harry Brawley, googled him and found that you had moved to Florida
and had become a blogosphere of your own! I'll actually be in Boston
Sunday and Monday, and had been wondering if you would still be there,
but it seems not.
Anyway, I'm doing fine, still work out (in the middle of a long jog) several
times a week, though I do just the basic three kata slowly and strongly so as to
maintain the aging joints in good shape. Check out my web page - you
might still recognize me - you look the same as ever in your photo :-)
http://www.cs.indiana.edu/~hanson/
Take care - hope you are well.
Best wishes, Andy Hanson
(from all the way back at Columbus Avenue,
with Dave Ruth and Dick Philbrick, all recruited to Uechi-Ryu
by Will Zachman as I recall)
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