Maurina Dalton

Lance

I still remember my first class with Sensei Zach. I learned "six inches/45" an abdominal exercise, Tego One and soon after that language modification, because cussing was forbidden. I had a lot of free time and wanted to fight like Jackie Chan. Now three years later and many belts, my impression of UPKUDO as well as that of my life is completely different.

The most inspiring lesson I've learned is one that I can sum up by quoting something the erstwhile Renshi Anne wrote me in an email, "We are all imperfect-yet we can be great" that statement changed my way of thinking and view on life. As humans, we are all fallible, yet with UPKUDO, I've seen fallible people consistently accomplish great things over and over again. That's because UPKUDO nurtures people and brings out the best in them so that their accomplishments can shine brighter than their human imperfections." I believe that UPKUDO brings out the best in me. It is my priviledge to practice Grand Master Baker's system . I hope to serve as a good example of what one can do with the right attitude and motivation no matter where my Military training takes me.

Mary Charlotte Sullivan

When I joined UPKUDO, it was because I wanted to do something that my kids and I could enjoy together. At that time, I learned the philosophy of UPKUDO was "Love always wins" and "Positive input is positive output". What a wonderful message! Although I was nervous about starting something so new and different to me, this philosophy gave me a good feeling that I could fit in. My dojo brothers and sisters were flawless at demonstrating these values. Everyone made it a point to give encouragement and praise and was so helpful that I couldn't have felt more comfortable. Master Anne has taught us that we all learn from each other, and that is a wonderful feeling. It really brings us together, not just as a team, but a family. I am so thankful that I have been given the opportunity to train as an UPKUDO instructor. The children are so amazing and so eager to learn, and I know that with Master Anne as my teacher, I will not fail in becoming an instructor who can teach them not only UPKUDO style, but UPKUDO spirit as well, with love, patience, respect, and positive encouragement.