Saturday, December 26, 2009

TAEKWONDO: REAL WEALTH!


Over the past year and a half, our country has found itself in the bull’s eye of a financial crisis. Across the nation mortgages go unpaid, students are finding it difficult to secure college loans, and investments made in the hope of attaining long-term prosperity are evaporating. These challenges, coupled with others we are likely to experience in the coming years, cause many of us to ask just what real wealth is.

Is real wealth securing a job we are confident is bulletproof, only to eventually find it exported to a foreign land? Is real wealth measured by money in a bank exposed to the whims of an erratic global economy? Or is it something more…something that is neither minted, nor interviewed for?


We who diligently practice traditional tae kwon do are fortunate in that we realize an awakening of sorts. Not in a religious sense, although at times it can be of a spiritual nature, but in a way that cultivates passion and wonder; a desire to enthusiastically pursue something bigger than ourselves. Through tae kwon do training we develop courage in contrast to danger, a trait that in an uncertain world can be translated as the strength to break through adversity, just as we would a brick or pine board during a promotion test. In the big scheme of things, these virtues may seem small. But when the standards many of us thought for so long to be unshakable begin to crumble, courage, strength and the self-assurance to overcome doubt surely counts as real wealth.


Furthermore, real wealth is seen in the eyes of our young students who are developing confidence along with patience and self-control. Compassion, too, is a characteristic the martial artist must nurture as evidenced by martial arts schools around the world promoting fundraisers that directly benefit their local communities. Recently our Leadership Team, a group of youngsters within the Chosun Taekwondo Academy who aspire to positions of greatness, raised over a thousand dollars for our local ambulance corp. From this it quickly becomes evident that traditional tae kwon do, if practiced sincerely, is not simply about kicking and punching as it may appear on the surface. More correctly, it is about investing life’s coffers with riches that will reap dividends far into the future, immune to greed and self-interest. It is about developing ethical and physical self-defense that will result in real wealth.


Yet, one may ask, how can a discipline resonating with potential violence be expected to imbue such virtuous qualities? The answer to this question depends on the manner in which tae kwon do is taught, and subsequently embraced, by the student.


If the practitioner is to profit from the real wealth associated with martial arts training, they must first be exposed to the vast mosaic that comprises the traditional tae kwon do curriculum. This, clearly, is the responsibility of an experienced instructor acting as mentor and purveyor of the accumulated knowledge or wisdom residing at the core of traditional tae kwon do. The teacher must be selfless in this transmission, putting their student’s well being in the martial arts above all else. They must infuse respect, discipline, and a genuine appreciation for accomplishment, coupled with authentic technique. For example, advanced black belts may find it difficult to recall the first moment the realization set in that they were capable of effectively defending themselves; or the sense of connection experienced with the discovery that they share a martial tradition with over 70,000,000 fellow tae kwon doists worldwide. Moreover, learning how to remain positive when adversity strikes, in tandem with a healthy disregard for the toxic effects of self-criticism, represents an annuity far in excess of those in a bank dissipating before our eyes. These dividends of training, conveyed by a worthy instructor, are significant and act as valuable currency in the face of emotional recession.


But the legal tender of traditional tae kwon do is not printed exclusively on the paper of virtue, but matures on a principle of action. The Five Tenets of Tae Kwon Do – courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit – lay the foundation for the art, but the structure that houses the real wealth associated with our training must be built of materials forged by orthodox technique. Clearly, due to its Olympic status, many practitioners currently focus primarily on the combat sport element of tae kwon do, an aspect steadfastly developed through the efforts of the World Taekwondo Federation. However, by highlighting the overarching requirements for successful competition in the ring, many of the techniques and philosophical underpinnings associated with self-defense, including hand techniques, poomsae, one-step sparring, Ki or internal energy development and meditation, have been subjugated or forfeited altogether. These sadly overlooked, yet quintessential components of traditional tae kwon do constitute earnings that must be presented in their entirety if the student is to be the recipient of the real wealth vested in this authentic martial discipline.


Likewise, any savvy businessperson expects a substantial return on their investment. And just as yields are often linked to risk, so it is in the martial arts. However, the risk that comes with the inculcation of traditional tae kwon do doctrine is not necessarily related to physical injury as the layperson might expect. On the contrary, if the practitioner pursues the way of tae kwon do with their true heart, then the only hazard they risk is the positive effects of profound enlightenment; a reemergence of the passion and purpose sadly eclipsed by age and the cynicism that frequently accompanies it. The Buddhist concept of beginner’s mind dictates that we approach daily life with a fresh outlook while fending off brittle notions or narrow preconceptions. Subsequently, the real wealth manifest in the fresh worldview gained through the sincere practice of traditional tae kwon do and its underlying philosophy cannot simply be purchased in a monetary sense but must be earned with sweat, determination, and supreme focus.


Without a doubt, across the months and years ahead, our great nation will shake off the onerous yoke of greed perpetrated by a shameful few. The specter of fear and doubt present now will flee in the face of hope. As Americans we have been through times such as these before. Our resilience as a people will triumph. Yet those of us who train in the martial arts will find this transition less painful supported by the real wealth we have accrued through the unquestionable virtues of traditional tae kwon do.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

SHARING TAEKWONDO HISTORY WITH GRANDMASTER KIM BOK MAN



Last Saturday, December 5th, I enjoyed a truly singular experience. I was invited by Grandmaster Kim Bok Man to officiate at his school's promotion test in Roseland, New Jersey. Sitting at the head table with four Korean grandmasters, me being the only Occidental, brought to mind the wonder I felt at my 1st dan black belt test many years ago when I looked out at the masters in attendance. Now it was my turn and I was honored and humbled simultaneously. I have judged many belt tests at CHOSUN and other dojangs throughout America. But this was a very special moment. Having referenced my three books, the grandmasters frequently asked me to comment and pointed out to the students that we at CHOSUN truly understand the meaning of respect for the history and techniques of traditional taekwondo.
In the 1950s and 60s, Grandmaster Kim, along with General Choi Hong Hi and Tae Hi Nam, were the founding fathers of ITF Taekwon-Do. In fact, Grandmaster Kim was responsible for developing 16 of the 24 tuls, or forms, of ITF Taekwon-Do. Following what was an excellently executed test, Grandmaster Kim invited me out to lunch. I sat and listened intently as he spoke about his early days of training at age seven while Korea was under the yoke of the Japanese Occupation. Korea's enemies thought nothing of slaughtering an individual if found practicing martial arts. These were hard times indeed! I was riveted when he spoke about the call from Army Headquerters commanding him to report to General Choi's office and how the General recruited him to teach Korean martial arts. Then, he told me of the moment, on the heels of a demonstration for President Rhee, when General Choi ruminated about what to call these arts...he chose "Tae" - jumping and kicking, "Kwon" - destroying with the fist, and "Do" - The Way. Sitting there, I felt as if I was speaking with George Washington about the American Revolution; a first hand account from one of the leaders who was there!
We are so fortunate to have grandmasters like Dr. Richard Chun, Kim Bok Man, Hee Il Cho, Sijak Henry Cho, Jhoon Rhee and Son Duk Sung to draw from at this time. Respect these men and learn their histories for they are the first generation of our art.
Kamsahamnida!
Master Cook

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

TO APPRECIATE THE GRAND MOSAIC THAT TRADITIONAL TAEKWONDO IS, YOU MUST EMBRACE IT IN ITS FULLNESS...

Traditional taekwondo is a grand mosaic composed of many elements. Some of these elements may initially appear foreign to the Western mind. Bowing, use of Korean phrases, meditation and Ki development exercises, all fall into this category. The respect demonstrated towards seniors, regardless of age, as dictated by Confucian philosophy, also often confounds those unfamiliar with the art. Yet, recognition of the wisdom attained by an Instructor, Master or Grandmaster, is a fundamental prerequisite to the achievement of excellence on the path of taekwondo. Long ago, questioning an instructor during class was unheard of. Techniques were taught through example; the block, kick or strike was demonstrated by the teacher and the student mimicked it until proficient. No longer. Today, students frequently require in-depth explanations which may actually detract from the learning experience. While I do not necessarily condone blind adherence to cultural eccentricities, I do believe that, as is the case with my teacher Grandmaster Richard Chun, that the student must take suggestions coupled with technical transmission at face value knowing that, at some point, enlightenment will follow. This invariably requires humility and trust towards the teacher. What other components of traditional taekwondo can you add that require unquestionable trust? Do you agree that the inculcation of traditional taekwondo philosophy is largely predicated on an acceptance of Asian thought? I look forward to your frank and provocative comments!

Thursday, October 15, 2009

JOIN ME FOR AN EVENT CELEBRATING THE RELEASE OF: TAEKWONDO - A PATH TO EXCELLENCE

Hello Chosun Students and Friends,
Please join us for a booksigning and brief interview celebrating the release of my third book:
TAEKWONDO - A Path to Excellence
The Tuscan Cafe'
5 South Street
Warwick, New York
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
7:30pm
I do not believe in false modesty. When someone perseveres and realizes a significant accomplishment, they should take guarded pride in the fruits of their labor. I am very pleased with the result of my efforts in transmitting the virtues of traditional taekwondo through the written word and with my publisher's skill in portraying this work with integrity. Please attend our event and share in the propagation of authentic traditional taekwondo knowledge.
Kamsahamnida!
Sabum Doug Cook

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

DO YOU FIND BOOKS AND DVDs ON TAEKWONDO HELPFUL WITH YOUR TRAINING?

There are any number of books (including mine and Grandmaster Chun's) and DVDs concerning taekwondo on the market today. Some of these have obvious, educational merit. However, since taekwondo is primarily physical in nature, how valuable are these editorial and visual contributions to your practice as opposed to training first hand with your master?

Monday, August 10, 2009

WHY ARE BELT PROMOTION TESTS IMPORTANT?

Share with us the value you see in coming together on a quarterly basis for promotion celebrations. At CHOSUN you are not invited to test unless the instructors feel you are prepared. So, essentially it is a clebration and demonstration before your peers of your aquired skills. Let us know your views.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

TELL US WHAT YOU FIND MOST REWARDING ABOUT TRADITIONAL TAEKWONDO AND THE CHOSUN CURRICULUM IN PARTICULAR?

Monday, June 22, 2009

What does "traditional" taekwondo mean to you?

Annyung Haseyo Fellow Martial Artists,
Welcome to the new Chosun Taekwondo Academy blog space. As many of you know, my third book, Taekwondo - A Path to Excellence is about to be released by YMAA of Boston. This work focuses primarily on concepts unique to traditional taekwondo. Many practitioners outside of our school have asked me what "traditional" taekwondo means. What would you answer?
I look forward to your responses.
Kamsahamnida,
Sabum Doug Cook