“Why I’m a Martial Artist” (Video)

(This article is going to be awkward. But what the heck.)

Yesterday I sent a secret e-mail to everyone on my Karate Nerd™ list.

It was a poem.

Now, I usually don’t write poetry. In fact, I never write poetry. But the recent arrival of spring awakened some artistic part of my soul. A part that felt there was no good online manifesto for us martial artists. So, I sent the poem to a friend who recorded his voice, and then I made a simple video to give a better emotional impact.

I’m not a poet. I’ve never done anything like this before.

But it’s from the heart.

Here’s a direct link: http://youtu.be/_q8HYZGyKuo

_________

“Why I’m a Martial Artist.”

I am a martial artist. I don’t see the world like you.
I see below the surface, when you see water blue.
Although you can’t conceive it, I stand tall to face the wind.
And if you ask me how, I say it comes from strength within.

I am a martial artist. But competing is just a part.
When you see me standing still, I’m fighting in my heart.
I know that I am different, no need to tell me this.
I love the joy of training, somehow it brings me bliss.

I am a martial artist. But I have no enemies.
Although I’m trained to fight, my actions strive for peace.
I know you think I’m crazy, when I get another bruise.
But I just keep on training, no matter, win or lose.

I am a martial artist. This is the life I choose.

_________

Hope it resonates.

Keep keepin’ it real my friends.

/Jesse

* PS. Karate Nerd™ t-shirts now in stock! Check ’em out.

* PPS. Thanks to Karen Eden for the inspiration!