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executions.

Here I was, doing these kicks, in a very acceptable manner, so I thought. My Master Instructor, apparently thought otherwise. I noticed he approved the six students in front of me, but he informed me that I wasn't "ready" for the weekend final testing for the novice yellow belt.

My ego went into active overdrive. I was so mad, that I felt like quitting right there on the spot. I thought to myself, "This entire program is ridiculous". Fortunately, my brains got a hold on my emotions and I kept my mouth shut.

I took this setback as a challenge. Subsequently, I practiced the back kick, until I felt I had it down perfect. Sure enough, when the next yellow belt testing period rolled around, I was ready. My Master thought so also. He gave the OK for my yellow belt testing. Oh yes, I did get my Yellow Belt the next day and with flying colors I might add.

Yes, Tae Kwon Do really did improve my marriage 100%. After weeks and months of practicing martial art etiquette and courtesy, showing respect to others, becomes almost second nature.

Most importantly, I noticed my wife and I were getting along much better. The formality of the "giving respect" I was learning at Tae Kwon Do was beginning to rub off on me in a positive manner at home. My wife noticed this and appreciated it. In turn, she began reciprocating in a more respectful manner towards me. Before my wife and I knew it, harmony and happiness were permeating our household. It's funny how "little things" mean a lot!

As a side note to the above family observation, several times I thought about quitting martial arts. Believe me, my wife did not want to hear about it. She would not let me quit, even if I wanted to.

The very next thing I picked up from martial arts was a heightened sense of inner peace and spirituality. I am not kidding. We practice meditation at Tae Kwon Do, for the reasons of obtaining relaxation and self-discipline. I soon found myself exploring books on the famous old Oriental martial art legends. I read about the Samurai and their practices of Buddhism, Zen and Meditation. I studied their techniques for quieting their mind and spirit before they went into battle, life and death battles with the sword.

The above practices and techniques I found very comforting and reassuring. The practicality of quieting the mind and spirit, before engaging in any competitive activity, turned out to be quite helpful to me. If anything else, I acquired a new strength and power for my focus and concentration

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