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!

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

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?

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.

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

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