January 1st , 2017

This week's thought is from Sensei Bob Dobrow, Yon-Dan
Shihan, Ueshiro Northfield Shorin-Ryu Karate Dojo of Minnesota

“Joy and Vigor”

Onegaishimasu Hanshi, Kyoshi, Sensei, and all USRKUSA Deshi,

We all have heard -- more than once -- the call for “joy and vigor” on the
deck. At the annual Black Belt training in New York last October, Hanshi
talked about embracing “joy and vigor” *before *the workout, and *after, *as
well*. *He inspired us with the idea that as we get ready to come to
training, and when we leave the deck after our workout we should remind
ourselves of how lucky we are and how special it is to be training in the
exceptional art of Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu karate.

In the same way that we prepare the body for a vigorous workout by
stretching, we can prepare the mind and spirit with positive thoughts of
gratitude for the shinden, our teachers, and the chance to expand our
horizons.

Happy New Year to all Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu karateka!

Sensei Bob Dobrow, Yon-Dan
Shihan, Ueshiro Northfield Shorin-Ryu Karate Dojo of Minnesota