1/3/07 -

I thought about hobbies and other diversions over the break. Most people I know have some sorts of hobbies. For many people martial arts are a hobby. I think that a hobby may be an escape for some from the dealing with life's realities. It may might something that adds real value to our lives physically (a sport), mentally (reading), spiritually (volunteering to help others), emotionally (taking a walk with a friend. In balance all of these things are great. Martial arts may fall into any or all of these categories for you and me, but it may also become a "way of life" if you go beyond escaping life with it and enhancing your job, family, relationships, and spirit with it.

I have not had many hobbies in my life, but have tended to try to just doing a few things with all of my heart, mind and soul. I think that is the way I will continue in 2007. If I can live life with the honesty and courage that martial arts brings to our hearts I will have a great year.