My journey in Seido began in 1994 when my therapist told me that I should take up karate to learn how to yell. I don't know how serious he was, but since he went on a vacation the next week, I decided to look into karate. I visited several dojos around NY. Seido seemed too big so I joined a small dojo near my office. I stayed for a few months, but found it disorganized. I went back to 23rd street and watched a class there. It felt much clearer and focused. I joined and have been here ever since. I yell better now and also am much more in touch with myself on many levels.
I found it very challenging at first since everything was so new. I watched other people learn faster than me. Once I learned to focus on myself and to stop comparing myself to people half my age, I found that I was, in fact, learning. Starting karate as a 49 year old, age has been a factor for me, but less so as time goes on.
As I moved through the belt levels, I continued to be challenged and to acquire new skills. Kumite was terrifying, and there were many locker room tears in the process. However, someone told me that the only way to get better was to come to kumite every week. The fear is gone now and although I am not to best or most skilled, I do have some skills.
When I promoted to black belt, a YAI student was part of our group. His perseverance was inspiring so I got involved in the YAI program for developmentally disabled students. The students are wonderful people who have varying skill levels, but each of them shows up and does their best. To see them improve over the years is rewarding and they really appreciate the classes and the volunteers.
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