It's Never Too Late!

by Charles Westphal, 1st Gup

In starting my martial arts training in Tang Soo Do in my early 50s, over the course of the last five years I have found Tang Soo Do to be a great investment of my time and effort. Integrity, concentration, perseverance, respect and obedience, self control, humility and indomitable spirit are qualities that need to be reinforced at every stage of our lives, not just when we are younger.

There are three reasons to engage in Tang Soo Do, self-defense, health and better person, all of which have no age barriers. Sure, it's a lot easier when you are younger to kick and punch and that is definitely a part of your training but I have found that the daily routine of life is much easier if you are in better physical shape attained by the stretching and physical activity involved in the martial arts. That is what is covered under the health segment.

As one grows older, you are a more likely target for the bad people of the world and that's when self-defense can come in handy. We all hope we will never need it but it is sure a comfort knowing that you could do something to defend yourself.

Better person encompasses many things, learning to be patient with yourself and with others, being tolerant and respectful, being able to control your emotions, these are all things that can make you a better person and make life easier as you go along. The teaching aspect of Tang Soo Do that all students as they advance must participate in ensures that the traditions and the art of Tang Soo Do will live through another generation of students. Without this vital aspect, we would all be practicing an art that no longer would exist once we are gone.

So in conclusion, when someone asks me why would I be doing this at this stage in my life, I must confess that it would be a lot easier going home and sitting on the sofa but what good would I be doing for my mind or my body by doing that. The old saying is very true, "Use it or lose it."