Block Your Words!

We should get a kick out of karate and block what we say. Recently, I have read posts from various people on Facebook, that were quite embarrassing to read. Remember everyone you have as friends see these! In karate class I say that we must never use four-letter words. Mostly, I refer to the word CAN’T. As the founder of our style always said, “…the difference between the possible and the impossible is one’s will”. One should always TRY, therefore, CAN’T should not be in our vocabulary as karate ka. But this goes beyond karate. Rather it is reading posts on Facebook that is sometimes shocking.

The use of curse words is a reflection on you as a person. They don’t make you bigger, stronger, or more important, but just the opposite. Their use, like a wall-falling-on-you, makes your smaller and reflects on you as a person, reflects on your family, your friends, and worst of all your character. Late in life I have learned this. That is why I would now implore anyone to control your thoughts especially on the internet and refrain from four-letter words in your writing. Rather, be positive and create an atmosphere of encouragement. It is said, that a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches.

Black belts and all students in the Pulaski Karate Center are held to a higher standard and I would never expect any student to verbalize a four-letter word much less write one in private or in a public place like the internet or anywhere someone may read them. Negative remarks and words are a disgrace to you, your family, your teachers, and your friends. If we can block a punch, then we can block what we say.

Jerry Hughey, Sensei