 |
Guess who these kids are? This photo was taken just a few years back. Recognize anyone? Everyone?! |
Black belt testing: Please join us this weekend for a joyous celebration of new growth in our school. The test starts at 10 pm Friday and runs to Sunday evening. There are many, many ways to participate. Please come and show your support. (Note: all ranks wear white). There are opportunities to help with watching during meditation at various times. See the back counter for sign-ups. Class will be as usual on Saturday morning, with an added workout Saturday night at 8pm. All levels and ages are welcome to attend any and all parts of the test, please talk to a Golden (those with gold fringe or stripes on their sashes) if you have questions. Tests are an important aspect of building our supportive community – see you there!
Rice Ceremony: Promotions will take place on Wednesday night at 6:30. Wear white and come early to set up. The black belt rice ceremony is very beautiful – and monumental for our budding school. Also, all ranks and ages welcome… wear white!
FREE September: We’re offering two weeks of FREE training for any kids brand new to the Studio during the month of September. Spread the word! And thanks to all the adults who came in to train with us during our July offer – so nice to meet you!
Welcome to third phase! Mas Terry, Mas Fran, and Mas Ryan! There are a few more wanna-be white sashes in the wings – we see you!
Solano Stroll September 14th: We are again going to rock the street at our annual super fun demo…come join the fun. Talk to Mas Jeannesa to get onboard – all, including beginners, welcome!
On Testing
Tulen tests are challenging.
Approaching this weekend’s test I started thinking deeply – once again - about what it is we teach here at Studio Naga. During tests students demonstrate focus, cooperation, dedication, discipline – skills that seem to be acquired slowly but then quickly translate to success in life outside the studio.
Tulen tests teach us all – at every stage, from white belt on up – to “never give up.” (Believe me, my tests were – and are - no less challenging than yours!)
This weekend’s test will put some through their paces, but then life is pretty much all about overcoming challenges. This art gives us the opportunity to develop the skills to face life challenges with the same bravery, dedication and commitment with which we approach our training.
I love to witness the outpouring of compassion and support from the community as everyone readies for testing. Tests – especially black belt tests – are a wonderful time to remember back to when each of us started training...and how far we have come.
Ok, bow in!
Goeroe Louise
