The Chop that Gives Us All Inspiration:
Phoenix Deserves the Pointe Viven Cookie Award
What we do is powerful. Our ideas, our creations, our spirit, and our great actions have always been key. Over the years it has been terrific to meet, spotlight, and feature certain creators, doers, and inspirational figures. I know no matter where I am, where I visit, and with whom I meet I will learn something and be re-energized by their endeavors.
This is where Phoenix rises. The video below demonstrates his rise, his persistence, and journey through the lesson at his karate school owned by a 7th degree black belt and champion instructor, Bobby Dixon. The first kick is not made with full commitment and follow through. The kicks are repeated with revision, encouragement, corrections. We see the emotion, the thinking, the lights of learning in the eyes of the young Phoenix, his sensei, and the other students in karate class.
Click the play button to view the video of Phoenix.
"Phoenix did not have to break the board to advance but he wanted to. While it may have been a struggle, with encouragement, instruction, and lots of love, he overcame and advanced. #FlyhighPhoenix, #Ican, #nevergiveup, #inspiration, #inspirational, #BobbyDixon"--Claudia Swonger, mother.
That final kick, although not actually a final kick, is the breakthrough. It is where the hard work, commitment, and practice comes together for Phoenix and teacher alike. The class as a community cheer; not laughing, no jeering here. That final kick took Phoenix from white belt to yellow belt. A board test Phoenix did not have to take yet, although wanted to do. The kick that broke the board will be one of many physical and proverbial kicks to come for Phoenix in and out of class as he grows and matures throughout life.
The personal stories of triumph, hard work, and genuine achievement do not always make headline news. Yet, we take notice when a person is able to break through the minutiae of what often constitutes news. Phoenix Swonger is one of those rare individuals that makes us take genuine notice.
Teaching and learning karate, or anything for that matter, is an art and a science. It takes great mastery to take on the practice. It is about relationships in the classroom. And outside the class. Millions of books exist of the practice of teaching and learning karate, other sports, and subjects. It is key to remember that good teachers make it look easy. Students, the age of students, like Phoenix, personalities, parents, obstacles at home, and much more creates for a very complex environment to achieve much in life. Although, as this video illustrates, learning can be attained.
There are ample take aways and themes from this story. Inspiration. Dedication. Encouragement. Commitment. Positivity. Yet, none of these themes would be possible if it were not for Phoenix being curious enough to want to break a board, working hard, and showing up to the task. The commitment on the part of his mother to take him to karate, his resolute instructor, Sensei Erik Gianini, and the community created by the positive behaviors and attitudes of the other students in class.
Join the Jesse Bluma at Pointe Viven circle:
Credits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbKeTBf03z4, https://www.pexels.com/photo/2-people-doing-karate-during-sunset-62376/, and Snapwire
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment