Martial Arts
My sister was really into Martial arts when she was younger. When? she first asked our mother to join I assumed that she would refuse. It is quite a jump from having 2 little ballerinas to having a ballerina and a fighter! Yet for some reason she felt obliged to let her go. I think perhaps she thought it would be just? a phase. It might have been “just a phase” but it lasted several years.
So when I found out that my sister was joining a martial arts club I was petrified. Despite her being four years my junior, she was able to kick my sorry behind with ease. Can you imagine what life would be like when she learnt professional moves? She started and I stood and quivered in my shoes waiting for the inevitable to happen. But do you know what? The first thing she learnt was to control herself and not to fight with others who are not martial arts experts (unless being obviously attacked). She stopped fighting with me. She became more poised and controlled. She even learnt about inner happiness.
I was impressed. She took interest in anything to do with martial arts and became a different person altogether. It was probably the best thing that could have happened to her.
Places that help encourage martial arts may give to others what martial arts gave to my sister. Things like a monthly contest and newsletter? can help encourage interest. And if it all leads to less fighting (especially in public) I am all for it. It is even great for self defence!
