Dear fellow Martial Artist,

Last night we had a  Brown belt promotion. Well deserved. One point I would like to share is that every promotion has been a proud full moment for me as well. As for the Black Belts in our style promotion is slow but worth it. All Black Belts have dedicated a least eight years and more in studying to reach their goal. (Correct, some school give black belts away it a couple of years). One can develop the physical skill fairly quick, but the essence of being a Black Belt takes years. The Black Belt is a sacred thing and not to be disrespected. Those who do not understand leave and never  deeply understand their own goals in the martial arts. The Black belt  is a growing and developing process that evolves and never ends. The shallow and the vein will sadly never get it.

Happy New Year
Kyoshi Korentsides

December 23, 2013

Dear Student of the Martial Arts,

         Last night was the first time in a while that we had a sparring class "FIGHT NIGHT".
Everyone, especially me were with some rust. I have to admit I witness good technique and amazing spirit. As well, I witness a dojo bond, call it a spirit of respect. Sometimes were are so obsessed with the fancy techniques, we forget the basic 101 skills that will help us survive a street situation. I have visit and spoke to many teachers and students outside my dojo. I discovered everyone is trying to blow everyone's mind with new never seen techniques...."what ever"......I hope we are not forgetting our roots. I personally believe the basics will save your life. Bruce Lee did comment about the classical mess and the magical sensei's that are all knowing. I get it. Remember the Art is very personal and unique to each person, that's what makes it so special.
With respect, honor and courage
Kyoshi Korentsides.

Well its the end of 2013 and the Shido Dojo had great moments.
One new Sho-dan Ho.......and last night at the new Dojo one new promotion to
Full Sho-dan....a young man that is deserving due to his loyalty and respect for the art.
The new dojo has some good energy. I have been longing for some kind of change. The Parks and Rec people have been good to me and continue to support our organization.
I am also very fortunate that I have dedicated and respectful students.......I like to call them all
family.
Merry Christmas to all and a Healthy Happy New Year.
Kyoshi

The new session is starting Monday 11/18/13. I have notice a new wave of positive energy in the dojo lately.
Very exciting to see students interest in the classic techniques.

I am very excited, the Dojo is increasing in size again.   I am discovering the newer students want to learn the basics, they want to know about traditions, and are not overly concern about belt color. Imagine that people that want to train to improve themselves. Egos left at the door.
 I am very grateful to teach.

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?