Dan Shi Martial Arts Club

1st Dan Thesis

By Tonya Murphy
2006

I started out in martial arts as a means of self-defense. Being an very small person with a very independent spirit, sometimes dangerously so, it was important to me in these fairly violent times to be able to stand up for myself and my loved ones, and at least have the peace of mind to know that I did everything I could to protect myself. While I would never recommend people uselessly throw their lives away on a principle (it’s always better to just give them your wallet) nor do I believe people should live out their lives in fear of would-be attackers. I can safely say now that I have achieved these skills, and along the path gained the courage to use them.

My training in martial arts began about five years ago, studying Kenpo karate. I loved the instructor and the little tiny basement school (the total number of students was about 10). I achieved a green belt (the equivalent of about 9 months) before moving to Indianapolis. After settling here, I tried again to find a school that I felt would be a good fit. I have a very relaxed manner during classes that doesn’t always fit well with the more traditional instructors. I tried a few karate schools and even Aikido before finding Dan Shi Tae Kwon Do. When I started, the classes were held in a basement classroom of a local church, so I immediately felt right at home. The instructors were also very forgiving of the habits (both good and bad) that I’d already learned from my time in karate.

Over time, my naturally self-deprecating manner grew more confident as I improved each week in my techniques. I still have a lot to learn, and there will always be those who are better than me, but that’s okay. I’ve done what I set out to do, and found additional goals just as worthwhile in the process.

Unfortunately, I have to admit to myself (and now to you!) that I have a pretty significant selfish streak. However, when you become an upper at Dan Shi, there is an expectation to be willing to help those who need it. Although I don’t have the true gift of teaching (and truthfully, don’t have the desire for the gift either), I’ve discovered how rewarding it can be to watch those whom you’ve helped succeed and grow. Through participation at our fundraisers, I’ve also learned how fun it can be to give your time in a goal that is designed to help others.

Through Dan Shi I’ve also made a few good friends that remain so even outside of class. That probably wouldn’t have happened at another school, which just emphasizes the need for a good fit between student and school. You’ll be spending a decent amount of time with your instructors and fellow students, so you must feel comfortable to be yourself (while respecting your instructors and school of course) during training. However, comfort should not equal easy! You can and should be challenged, and challenges can and should be fun, and with the right combination of student and school that should come naturally.

I know full well I’d be likely to lose a bar fight, but who cares about winning a bar fight anyway? And besides . . . if I can do it, anyone can.