Archive | December, 2013

Thank you, Mrs. Roosevelt

31 Dec

Michaela was aiming, concentrating, brow furrowed, getting ready to once again lift her leg and try to drive her foot through the board. She had tried several times already, unsuccessful each time. She was surely nervous and frustrated. I was holding the board and was also focusing, offering her the occasional tip or encouragement, nervous for her, wanting her to succeed, to figure it out, to learn.

“CAN I OFFER A SUGGESTION? MAYBE BECAUSE YOUR LEGS ARE SHORT YOU SHOULD MOVE CLOSER. IT LOOKS LIKE YOU AREN’T QUITE REACHING THE BOARD.”

That comment didn’t come from me. It came from Continue reading →

Behind the red door

8 Dec

He walked into our school as a 3rd grader. He was hiding alongside his aunt, his guardian. “I’m afraid.” “There’s nothing to be afraid of. See, those kids in there are doing it. Some of those kids look like you. They’re having fun.” “I’m afraid. They’re not me.” “You wanted to come try this. I think you’ll like it.” “It kinda looks good, but I’m afraid. I’m scared.”

Thus went the conversation between Daniel, his aunt and I as they considered whether or not he wanted to start Taekwondo training.

Daniel is autistic. He is afraid of new experiences, and even still feels afraid of his usual experiences at times. He can get fixated on things, mostly things that would somehow disturb him, particularly touch sensations. But it can be anything. We make some accommodations for him. Continue reading →

The silent treatment can be deadly

4 Dec

I’ve been involved in a sticky organizational matter that boils down to communication. Actually, it boils down to relationship, but how communication factors into that seems key. More specifically, it has to do with communication models and expectations.

As a Taekwondo master in a traditional system, there are certain expected communication and behavioral protocols that are rooted even deeper than the rank or status per se; they are rooted in Korean culture with it’s particular regard for hierarchy and it’s higher Power-Distance Index. Rank, position, age, authority and other factors are all part of the interaction and communication equation, Continue reading →

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