For his 2nd gup written test Mitch Ambrose was required to answer the question: "How has Tang Soo Do helped you; how are you different from others who do not take Tang Soo Do?"

His reply:
Tang Soo Do has helped me in all aspects of being a person.  It has helped me in my marriage and personal life.  My wife is grateful for me being more active and having more patience and understanding.  In my personal life, my friends and family can see a difference in me.  I am happier and have lost weight.  I feel that my mental and physical energy has increased.  My focus and concentration at work and home have improved greatly.  My endurance and strength has also increased to where I do not get tired as quickly or get out of breath as fast as I used to.  I am different from people who do not take Tang Soo Do because I have developed the discipline and determination to do something that makes me a better person.

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At the Twin Dragons monthly Upper Belt Workout (Saturday 11/16/02) which is open to all WTSDA red, blue, and black belts, Mr. Wilson Smith instructed the students on takedowns, transitions, and submissions.  The goal of this clinic was to get comfortable with being able to slip a jab, take your opponent to the ground, and control him until help arrives or to finish him off with a choke (at your discretion).

"Tang Soo Do students gain an incredible proficiency in upright fighting techniques", said Mr. Smith.  "But is is always a plus to be able to control the fight from any level."

The October Workout covered the deadly and beautiful Kama.  This ancient weapons was used to harvest rice and wheat and provides a varied arsenal for medium distance and in-close range fighting. In addition to blocks, strikes, slashes and twirls, an ancient Okanawan form was presented.  "Although it is not a part of our normal Tang Soo Do curriculum, we feel like adding the ancient weapons helps keep the upper belts motivated and builds a connection to the history of the martial arts."

Twin Dragons Upper Belt workouts are usually held on the third Saturday of the month.  Contact Mr. Smith at TwinDragons@peoplepc.com for more information.
Submitted by,
Mr. Wilson Smith