 |
Promotions: |
Shodan 12/20/03 |
| Family Members: |
Charlotte (wife), Grant and
Katie (children), Bear and Otey (beasts) |
| Favorite Foods: |
Does this question say “Conrad Jones” or what??? Unfortunately, I am saddled with
an incredibly restricted diet, and Filet Mignon with Crabmeat Bearnaise Sauce is
out. I reckon that I am left with seafood, sushi and various tofu products. Apparently
(as evidenced by my ever-expanding waistline), I have adjusted. |
| Hobbies: |
Karate (of course), backpacking, fly-fishing (this is a new one); I am also volunteering
with the Williamson County Rescue Squad |
|
Accomplishments: |
I feel confident that my greatest accomplishment is a life lived in recognition
of what truly matters: faith, family, friends, health, happiness and service. I
am cognizant of the values of time and the importance of spending it wisely. Living
in the moment for the right reasons is the result of a personal silver lining. |
| What aspect of karate has helped you the most? |
Balance and Control. I am not speaking of balance in a strictly physical sense. Balance is an essential element for a successful life. In the practice of karate, I find myself working to achieve control over both my physical body and my mental states. This is the meat-and-potatoes daily application of karate. We also balance our efforts in the dojo between the traditional (kata, kiso, kihon) and the practical application (self defense). |
| What part of karate have you enjoyed the most? |
Kata and Self-Defense. I have a love/hate relationship with the katas. They offer a sort of moving meditation which forces me to escape into the kata and, if only for a moment, the rest of the world is muted. The other side of the coin involves the knowledge that it will never be “right” (especially as practiced by yours truly). Self-defense is where the rubber meets the road (in reality), and the real fun is to be had (in practice).
What I have truly enjoyed the most about karate has been the relationships that I have developed with everyone. The dojo feels like an extended family. I would like to thank Mr. Jones, all of the Black Belts, and every student (not to mention several student families) that I have come in contact with for making the last three-and-a-half years’ time very well spent, and a wonderful beginning to my journey in the arts. Finally, a special thanks to Charlotte, Grant and Katie for your understanding and support.
|