Flying Crane

As we grow as Martial Artists, we develop new ideas, habits and experiences.  these factors  help us mature into the people that we become.  We find out as we grow that it can be difficult to shed habits that we no longer desire;   as it can be difficult   for a crane to leave a lake with their wings saturated with water.

The shedding of these old habits can be an uncomfortable side effect of positive change.   Mother Nature has given the crane the gift  of flight; however, it doesn’t fly until the prerequisite skills are developed. As martial artists, our growth and development is influenced by our instructors, fellow students, styles we study and the elements of the training hall. Along with our desire and attitude, each warrior   determines their own Flight plan.

-Master John  Dowdy (2009)

Crane in flight photography by Pam Jankowski