AKKA Independence

If we defeat the bully on the inside then the bully on the outside won’t be a problem.

What’s our Goal Black Belt! But it is not the actual cloth belt that is the goal...you can get one of those online right now...today...for about $10-$20.... It is what the belt represents. It is what it took to get to the day where your Instructor hands it to you because you EARNED it. It is an outward reflection of the spirit inside the one wearing it. OR...at least it should be. Black Belt means different things for different people We are all on our own journey as we climb the staircase of development at AKKA. But, ultimately, earning the privilege of wearing a Black Belt comes with some responsibility. Are we conducting ourselves with honesty courtesy and respect toward others? Does our training show discipline in a way that motivates and inspires others? If not...then we have some work to do.

Why I believe every kid should take a year of Martial Arts. Kids are growing up in a negative work. Self Confidence is almost impossible they kids are bombarded... with hate and negativity. Hate is ordinary and love is revolutionary. From first to third grade is devastating emotionally for most kids. It will take a least a year around positive peers and adults to being to turn kids around. 80 percent of first graders have high self esteem. Then after 2 years 80 of third graders have low self esteem. Teachers and school bus drivers have challenges and kids see a tough side of adults. Martial Arts leachers can be super role models. Kids need kind, respectful, positive and strong adult figures in their lives. With distance learning and the shut in kids need to move and get exercise. Working toward black belt means building Black Belt Excelence habits. Things like being polite, respectful, helpful to others become cool and something the kids strive for. Being in shape is something that is looked up to. Kids who exercise regularly do better in school and are healthy. Kids with happy positive friends are also happy and positive. Failing is okay and part of the process. Failure is not something that is made "fun of". It doesn't define a loser. All champions fail - the important thing is they develop grit and try again. Parents and other adults are shown respect. It's not okay to cave in to unhealthy peer pressure. Vaping and sex is not something all kids do. But it takes a strong kid to say "no". Martial Art kids know bulling is not right. They know what to do to protect themselves and others. Martial Arts in a journey of self improvement and excellence. Everyone needs at least a year of that. One year of Martial Arts can make life long changes. Kids who "like it, love it and want more of it", don't have to stop after a year. However parents must not let any child quit before the years is completed. Parents must team up with the martial arts instructor and never give up because it gets a little tough. Kids should all learn how to swim. They are learning more than swimming they are learning they are responsible for their own safety. Last Sunday School - kids need more good role models, God lessons and a strong moral compass. If you are a martial arts instructor and also believe all kids in your community should take a year of martial arts then spread that message. If making a difference is part of your vision they you should passionately explain to mom and dad that they would really do the very best for their child by enrolling for 12 months. Last week I shared this with people I coach and gave them the assignment for every instructor and staff member to be able to share the message "Why every child should take one year of martial arts."