Taking Up Taekwondo!

This year, I have taken up Tae Kwon Do with my kids. It’s not something I was really looking forward to. Sure, there are several positive aspects in taking up the activity. But knowing that it was going to take time, energy, and exercise… I can’t say it was a thrilling motivation.

When I was starting college, both my brothers decided to take up Tae Kwon Do. I was interested, but brushed it off. I convinced myself that I didn’t have the time. I was working a job that kept me busy and active. With family, I attended the testing demonstrations and on occasion, watched them practice. It was neat watching them break boards and spar. I often took my camera, and would video the entire session. To some extent, I was disappointed I had not taken up the sport.

Lydia’s brothers also took up the classes with my brother Sam. Lydia and I got to see quite a few of their classes and tests as the years went by. I had again entertained the idea of joining, but didn’t see myself committed to it.

As Mysia got older, we thought about her and I joining, but I ended up continuing to brush it of. Finally, as my brother Sam advanced in art, he was able to become an instructor. At the beginning of the year, he started asking around to see if any would be interested if he started a free class. By this time, my kids were old enough. Lydia and I discussed whether it would be worth the effort, and came to the conclusion that it would be great in teaching them discipline, control, and respect. There was one catch… I would have to join.

For the first several weeks, things were going good. Mysia, Malachi, and I worked on learning the basics. Stretching and exercise was a killer though. My personal goal was to get fit and work on my strength. However, it seemed that I was sweating more than anything. If there was any weight to be lost, it would be because of dehydration.

I was determined to press on. I was going to show everyone that I could make it through. Even though there were a few times my kids wanted to give up, I had to show them that we could do it. We made a commitment, and we weren’t going to back down. I was in the lead.

I pulled our resources together and bought the uniforms. The kids looked great. I looked like the Stay-Puff Marshmallow Man”!

Now that it is summer, and college classes are over, Lydia has joined. She is now caught up with the rest of us. We will be testing as a family to become yellow belts soon. It’s exciting that we’re able to do this as a family.

My goals are to keep with the self-discipline, control, and respect. Of course, keeping fit would be an absolute bonus as well. This journey is new, but perhaps I will do well in keeping up!

~Matt