What does Taekwondo mean to me?

I have been training and learning in Taekwondo for over 23 years. It has brought balance and moderation to my life, has given me self confidence and has improved my health and well being.

Taekwondo is more than a hobby or pursuit, it is an integral part of my life. It reflects in how I look after myself and in how I consider others. I regard Taekwondo as a path which will guide me through a healthy, stable and balanced life.

What has Taekwondo taught me in and out of the dojang?

When I first took up Taekwondo in 1990 I was a 20 year old man living in the often hostile surroundings of London. At times I became involved in street fights and bar rooms brawls. I would not consider myself a violent person however I have found that insecurity often leads to aggression to prove manliness.

I actually took up Taekwondo to relieve a back injury. I was looking for a sport or activity which would give me good physical condition and flexibility. The wider benefits came as a great surprise. As I progressed in my competency and ability in Taekwondo I found that I did not feel compelled to prove myself in social situations. I found that rather than violence finding me, I did not attract confrontation. This could be from the added maturity I gained from my learnings. I am grateful to Taekwondo for this influence.

There have been times when due to injury, extensive work or other commitments I have been unable to continue My training and these have invariably led to imbalance and poorer health and physical condition. At times during short spells where I have been unable to train I have succumbed to back injuries that I would never suffer from when training. I have also found that my stress levels are higher during periods when I do not train regularly. Taekwondo is not only a key interest, it in some ways defines me. Its tenets of Courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self control and indomitable spirit have guided me in life through challenging times, through injury, Ill health, work pressures and social interactions. In and out of the dojang it has taught me respect for others and myself, good manners and ethics.

I have learned not only an art of self defence but a way of life.

Paul Bowler

Coorparoo.

Masters Note:

Paul has just graded to 2nd Dan after 15 years.  Its great to see a student return after a long break to resume training.  We are never too old to enjoy the benefits of Tae-Kwon-DO.