A Few Thoughts by Jack Nagle

Jack_Nagle
November 18, 2013

Jack_Nagle

It’s been a while since I have written anything about Karate, the Dojo, or Sensei, or me personally. Many of the fairly new members do not know me, but I have been around FMK for quite a while now.

I have seen things, done things, and know about the things I mentioned that are good for the art of Karate. Karate, in particular, our style which is ShotoKan is named after Gichin Funakoshi, who founded/invented this style. Shoto , meaning

The Dojo is to be respected for what it is…a place to study Karate and strive for perfection of same. A serious practitioner (Karateka) spends the rest of their active life perfecting their Art. Why bow? In southeast Asia and many other parts of the world, the act of bowing is the greatest form of respect between two people or a group. This has nothing to do with any religion. We bow when entering or leaving the Dojo, entering or leaving the practice floor, and when we greet other…no matter what his or her rank is. Respect is expected and required of all members and I agree with this because it shows others (especially kids) your honest feelings for them. In doing what we do…trust is all important.

Sensei – Grandmaster Frank Kushner is an expert in his field. As a former national champion, he commands respect. I have the utmost respect for him as he is, above all, my friend as well as my teacher (Sensei). Watch him…watch the fluid movements, listen to what he says, and try to imitate what he does. You will learn a lot. I guarantee it. Whatever you do…don’t quit. Don’t stop training.

As for myself, I am retired after a 38 year career. I am a veteran of the US Army, married for 45 years, helped my wife raise 3 children, and am proud of each one. I am an organist and singer. I really enjoy being a volunteer for Meals on Wheels 5 days a week. I really enjoy teaching Karate and also Self Defense. I believe in Karate, not only for the training, exercise, self defense, but it also gives a person self confidence and helps one to be more well rounded in everything you do. My Sensei believes in me and has bestowed on me a 7th degree black belt and also has certified me as a self Defense instructor, because I teach outside the Dojo for various groups and organizations. I really enjoy showing others that they can protect themselves. I learned these skills from my Karate master…Frank Kushner.