Today, I read a face book post of a frustrated Kempo brother.  His letter pained me because of one of his peers has been a phony for years. False rank, no credentials, and mostly did not put in the time for blood, sweat and tears.......lets not forget broken bones. I say to my Kempo brother, there have been many impersonators throughout time claiming rank and credentials... but these fakes have to face themselves in the mirror. It scares me what they really see in the mirror, because no one can lie to themselves unless they have a social emotional or mental problems.
Personal I have always been concern about reputation and how one is perceived by society. As well, how other real martial artist view you. You have to believe and live your philosophy and be true to yourself first then be able to teach others.

Kyoshi Korentsides
8th Hachi dan

So how many participants have worn this patch in the last twenty years in southern Maryland?
I say many, but I have only promoted 15 Black belts in 23 years of teaching...........think about it.
How does your black belt rate?  Can you defend yourself out of a wet paper bag? Do you walk around your Dojo and posture like a Hollywood bad ass?

New Spirit in the class

I am please to share that tonight's Kempo class was quite full and with enthusiasm. I am very luck to have good people that truly care to learn. The kids classes were both full and energized. The little buggers can go all night. Love their energy. The kids on many occasions remind me why I am still teaching the Art. The adults challenge me to look deep inside and share my vision on martial arts.
Kyoshi.

Tomorrow September 9th 2013, begins my 23rd year teaching Kempo and Jujitsu  in Southern Maryland. I am honored to teach all ranks, especially to the new comers. I still find it exciting to turn people on to the Arts. The Martial Arts have evolved in unique ways. Some schools have become a three ring circus, baby sitting service, and while others have become ego feeders for the teachers. Remember this, that when you take the responsibility to teach the arts, teach it well. We don't want to give our students a false sense of security. Would you teach a student to shoot a gun,but not teach them to clean and load it properly. We all follow a path in this universe, lets make a difference and teach the art and still be true to ourselves and our master teachers of the past.
Kyoshi Korentsides
 

I am curious. With the evolution of the Martial Arts in the last few decades, when will the student seek for basic training designed to defend yourself in a street situation. I love all of it, fancy techniques, movies you name it I love it, but my personal concern has always been street and home defense. Your ABC's in the Art will save your life.....what say you.
Kyoshi.