The flip side of this is that Martial Arts training may not be the right fit for everyone. I know this sounds like I am contradicting myself, but let's explore this a bit further.

Why would Martial Arts training not be right for some people? Some may not be ready to embrace change in their lives or embrace a healthier lifestyle. Some people simply are not disciplined enough. Some just are not yet prepared mentally to take responsibility for themselves, their lives, their goals, their success, their health, their ability to protect themselves or loved ones.

Some people play the victim role and do not have the strength to step out of the role. I'm sorry to say that for those people, we are not for you.

Statics say about 1% of our population study some type of Martial Arts.

There is a reason for that. Embracing growth and change is difficult to do. We get set in our comfortable ways. Ways that propagate lack of drive, responsibility, and eventually our health and well being. We say we want change, but often change is something someone else is supposed to do for us. Or is it? For change to occur, each of us must look at ourselves and start there.

For overall change to occur in a community, a city, a county, a state, a country, the world, we must first start by making a change in ourselves.

If a small number of citizens take on the responsibility to incite change, they do so by setting the example of changing themselves. This occurs through a lifestyle change, a life style change that a properly taught Martial Arts program can invoke. A program that continues a tradition of common courtesy, etiquette, and respect.

Martial Arts study is meant to constantly challenge us mentally and physically. Challenge us to grow, mature, and make better choices in our lives. This only comes through contemplation, inward focus, and the guidance of an experienced teacher.
We often come to a crossroads in our lives where we feel the desire to move in a direction. A direction of self cultivation that will cause us to live a life well lived. A time in our lives where we think, "Is this all I will do in my life? I work, I eat, I watch TV, and I go to the beach every summer", or "I have a family, but do not set much of an example of a life filled with continuous learning." Our lives should be lived like a journey, where every turn brings us a new adventure. A life where you get to the end and say, "Wow, it's been great!"

If you're reading this article, you have probably come to this crossroad in your life. 1% of our population has chosen to take a step in the direction of Martial Arts as a primer for this growth. I can only imagine how many other individuals have come to this point and lacked what it takes to move forward. Do they lack what it takes? Or is it simply fear to take their first step?

You need to take some time to consider what holds you back. A journey of a thousand miles starts with one single step. Life is a journey, not a destination. How's your journey going? Is it filled with "Have To's," just getting through your day, stress, bad eating habits, complacency…

You will come to your crossroads. You will either continue on your present course, or you will find a better way. Traditional Martial Arts training can and will provide a better way for you if you embrace the process.

Where will you be mentally and physically in 5 years, 10 years, if you continue on your present course?

So if you are at your personal crossroad, I urge you to take the first step. The first step in a new, more positive direction. Whether that be Martial Arts, going back to school, or simply embracing a healthier life style.

Here at the Harrisburg Kung Fu Center, we have been helping people just like you take that first step since 1982. If you are up for the challenge and ready to step forward, you may set up an initial consultation to discuss your options here at the Harrisburg Kung Fu Center.

Good Luck on Your Journey,
Sifu Michael J. Rothermel
Pai, Pono-Li
Harrisburg Kung Fu Center

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