How can martial arts make everything better? I aspire to be a developed individual (spiritually, mentally and physically) who enjoys life for its diverse blessings. In my epilepsy and stroke recovery, karate has been the ultimate therapy for me. Here is how karate has made everything better for me.
Living with a disability, I assumed that I was the black sheep among the AMA flock. Limited capabilities became a mental barrier preventing me from following my dreams. In an environment surrounded by people striving to be the best they can be, I couldn’t believe my disability was my destiny. The AMA community helped kindle my belief that I could be a white sheep among the flock, as long as I am determined and willing to try. Being included with everyone and encouraged to use the abilities I have brought forth an alternate perspective and a sense of belonging to recognize my niche . Difference doesn’t exclude me, it made me work in equivalent methods that pertain to who I am. Striving to be a part of AMA helped me realize who I am.
Striving to be a student, I admit I can’t always physically participate, but I choose to be conscious mentally and learn what I can. Through various classes of observations, my mind is charged with ideas of what to work towards. Watching examples of how the body could move gracefully feeds my mind with visualizations and initiated the process required for my brain to connect my body. Motivation to be an active student helps improve my brain/body connection.
The AMA community isn’t focused on rankings or rewards to make a person better than others, they are committed to self-improvement and inspire participation to help everyone achieve. Watching senior students apply their skills to assist me made me recognize that disability isn’t a hindrance, it’s a separate path to different knowledge. Even if I can’t do everything the way others can, I am a contribution. Now, I know that my disability isn’t meant to be hidden. It’s meant to be shared so everyone can grow.
For me, karate made everything better. Spiritually, I’ve recognized who and what I’m meant to be in life. Mentally, I imagine what I want to become and trust I have the power to get there. Physically, I believe I will achieve if I’m determined and ambitious to grow.Karate makes everything better and, just like life, there is no set stage where the adventure ends. It offers continuous opportunities for self-growth.
Astrid Hardjana-Large
https://astridswords.ca
