I learned Karate the way it ways taught 100's of years ago by the old karate masters of Okinawa and later...Japan. There were no frills, no coddling, money was not an issue...they just didn't care about my status or anything else. It was a harsh reality to learn that "the world" didn't owe me anything! They taught me to stay alive, no matter where I was in the world. Everyone was not a "winner"...I had to earn what I received, there was "no free!" We didn't even have pads, shin guards, fist gloves...just bare knuckle hands and feet. I now ask parents, "what do you want for your son?" Do you want a man or a wimp? Someone who will step "up to the plate" and do what's expected of a man or hide in the shadows without accepting responsibility? Instead of being parents...we want to be our children's friend. What does the Torah say about that?
I'm not a military "drill Sargent," nor was my Instructor. Respect was demanded even with a gentle hand...or you were shown the door! Peer pressure was also a great motivating factor in learning respect, self=discipline, focus! The instructor was not there to cause us injury, although that was part karate. If you're worried about some injury...stay away from any contact sports! Play chess or knit!
You will learn about yourself and what you are made of...you will grow and develop. All I asked is that, like studying Torah, you Persevere!
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