Perspective

Based on what I read and see kids today are generally complete wimps. I have read article after article that kids today are wimpier than those of yesteryear. “Experts” say the kids have less cardiovascular conditioning and can accomplish less physically than kids 20 years ago. The “experts” say that the kids are more obese and are having increased health concerns because of this weight.

They say that today’s parents are too quick to rescue their kids and the kids have no emotional toughness and are risk adverse because of their low pain tolerance. They may be right; I see that around town from time to time. I also have to admit that I see it when kids first start taking class.

Within weeks of being in the school however, I see something completely different. It is very rare that a kid gets hurt on the mats and even then it is something incredibly minor. But when it does happen, I am always amazed how well the kids react to it. It is usually a true shining moment for them. Sure, they panic a bit and may even shed some tears. But when they are given proper perspective and positive encouragement, they always push through and persevere.

You see, the only thing kids today lack is the opportunity to discover how tough and how physically awesome they truly can become. When they are given the opportunity, like they do on my mats, or at a tournament they get better, stronger, faster and tougher every single day! Hows that for perspective?!