Reflections

On Friday night, September 22, 2023, my friend and Sensei, Woodrow “Woody” Jensen, passed away. Here are a few of my memories of “Uncle Woody”, as we affectionately called him. …

In Memorium – Sensei Woody Jensen Read More »

Rod: In almost three weeks I turn 75. For most it’s a time to slow down. Many of my friends are going through terrible physical ailments, all of which are …

Benefits of Tai Chi Read More »

July 27, 2021 Dear Rod, At Diane’s urging (under threat of painful death), I started to clean out some of my work and personal files. I’ve sure accumulated lots of …

A Note from Woody Read More »

It has been said many times that a strong house requires a strong foundation. This was illustrated quite nicely in my neighborhood recently.There is a duplex right across the street …

Foundation Read More »

My Thoughts For the past 30 years or so the hot topic of conversation in the Martial Arts world has been “What is the best fighting art?”, but the question …

Karate or MMA Read More »

To Practicality The Black Belt was once again at a tournament. He understood the limitations of tournaments, but still enjoyed the competition and comradery. He had been a black belt …

Black Belt: From Lesson… Read More »

to Friendship He had been training for 2.5 months. Just a baby. “You gotta crawl before you walk, walk before you run.” He was at that stage where he knew …

White Belt: Fear… Read More »

It was worth it The Green Belt was teaching the pretty photographer how to do a hip throw, Ogoshi. Yes, he was a karate student, but, as Sensei said, “Karate …

Green Belt: The Lesson Read More »