Privileged

   Privileged.  

One word, so much meaning.

The reason I am pondering this word is so simple. Silent River Kung Fu.  

   Back in 2008, my son Kody was lucky enough ( privileged ) to join the ranks of Silent River Kung Fu. He was 1 month shy of his 3rd birthday. He is now 14 1/2 years old.  Wow, that is a long time, and yet, it is just the beginning of his journey. I can't speak from his point of view so I'll speak from mine.

   The people I have met, the events I have gone to, the life lessons I have learned, all priceless. These are things you can't buy. If you or your child have been lucky enough ( privileged ) to be a part of this group, count yourself as a very limited but extremely fortunate group of humans. Sadly, very few people will ever know the joy of being part of this group. This all kind of hit home in Saturdays open training.

   I wanted to continue working on my "fitness Test" for black belt grading, you know, reviewing the different categories required and the numbers you need to pass. I laid out the sheets with each requirement on it and started to play around a bit. Well that drew a crowd. The fun I had with my fellow students, the little things I learned, the insights, the tips, the togetherness, all brought a sense of belonging that you don't get in to many places anymore. 

   I felt perfectly comfortable asking questions, never feeling judged, never feeling embarrassed for not knowing something. The excitement in the Sifu's eyes for being asked a question, for being asked advice, for being allowed to teach, that is something so unique nowadays. It wasn't " go away, your bothering me", or " that is white belt stuff, everyone knows that", it was just a simple answer gathered and grown from years of passed down knowledge and HARD work. Thank you.

   After open training, I got to thinking about how privileged I and my family are for being a part of Silent River Kung Fu. It has helped make my son into a person I am very proud of. It has brought my family closer together, because the 3 of us ( Deb, Kody and myself ), are all in this journey together. It has helped me think about my actions and their consequences from a more empathetic point of view than I used to. It has brought new friends into my life. I could go on and on, but I will cut it short. 

   It is through us students that this art will stay relevant. It is through us students that this art will stay true. It is through us students that this art will stay alive. I consider it an privilege to be taught this art. I do not take for granted that very few individuals will ever experience this art. I will try, everyday, to pass on the lessons and togetherness that this art offers. I want the world to be like Saturday's open training was: open, friendly, caring, empathetic, non-judgmental, etc.....