Dear Mr. Fariborz:


Please allow me to share with you the impact that karate, specifically, the TKC experience, has made on my son's and on our family's lives. As you may know, at eighteen months, my son was diagnosed with being in the Autism spectrum. At that time, twelve years ago, I was told by various medical professionals that my son was never going to live independently, never have meaningful relationships, never go to college, never get married. As you can imagine, we were shocked and devastated. In the middle of endless tears and sleepless nights, I read everything about Autism I could get my hands into. The more I discovered through observing my son's behaviors and reading about it, the worst I felt. Fortunately, I am not the type to accept the unacceptable. Without even thinking about what we had in front of us, my son and I embarked in "the experience of our lives". I researched and found out about innumerous therapies, some of them with no empirical evidence that it actually worked. I also found a couple of God-sent therapists willing to try whatever I wanted. We tried everything, from sensory integration, behavioral modification, floor plan, pivotal response, speech and language, occupational therapy, art, megadoses of Vit B, you name it. We "played" 24-7. I say 24-7, because I played special music for him while he was sleeping. Today he is 14 years old and completely hooked on classical music, specially Mozart and Gregorian chants, and so am I. Throughout these past twelve years, he has improved exponentially and has gradually "graduated" from various therapies.

After six years of Occupation Therapy (OT) and much improvement, and in my quest to give him a "normal life", I decided to look for a lifelong sport that would fulfill his needs for sensory integration including proprioceptive input. We tried and realized that team sports was not the way to go. We would find him in the outfield inspecting tinny bugs, appreciating perfectly formed glass leaves, looking to see animal shapes in the clouds, or counting stars in the skies above. After some research, I decided on karate. I had always admired the art and my older son had attended another academy. A mother of another special child told me about TKC. I brought my son in for a first session and was impressed. I found the place so conducive to my desire to give my son a loving and nurturing environment. I was amazed when I saw the instructors actually hugging the kids. Young and adults were so friendly with teach other, being so attentive, listening, smiling, hugging and kissing as if they were long term friends. Now I know that many of them are long time friends, because once we came we also stayed and we feel that we are among friends.

Appeasing my fears, my son was not treated any differently than they treated typical kids. I was glad that they had not noticed that he had special needs. At least I don't think they did. But if they noticed anything peculiar, they respected his individuality and our privacy. He has been allowed to work at his own pace. My son has worked extremely hard over the years and is now reaping the benefits of this work. He is in a magnet school, still needs help with academics but he is succeeding. Of course, I know that his willingness and all therapies together are responsible for his progress as a whole. However, I am completely convinced that
In karate he learned to focus and pay attention
In karate he learned to trust people around him
In karate he learned the difference between a friend and a stranger
In karate he learned consistency
In karate he learned discipline
In karate he is learning to want to succeed and move forward
At TKC he feels save and loved.
I feel that he is safe and loved at TKC.

Now, mom needs help with her kicks and he is showing her how. He tells me "but mom, it has been such along time since I did these, I don't think I remember how". Can you hear his pride in his voice?

Mr. Fariborz, your creation has made a huge impact in our lives, I hope you know that. God bless you and your family.

With all my love,

Dear Mr. Fariborz,
On Saturday, September 27, 2008, my husband and I witness a powerful and unforgettable experience, which I would like to share with you. When we stood next to you at the ceremony, I had tears of joy and happiness. My heart was pounding, my legs and feet were tingling and shivering as I watched my three kids walk down the candle-lit path. Although they each walked down that path individually for there 1st and 2nd degrees, this time, receiving their 3rd degree was different because they were able to share the experience together. I saw the love and support they shared, especially when they were able to tie each others belt at the end. I now know that this is a bond that they will share for the rest of their lives. I am so thankful to be able to be a part of this event because it has really opened my eyes and shown me that my kids have grown up to be such well-rounded and respectful kids.

I remember the first day, Norman and I took the three kids to your studio. You said, "They are good, but Jimmie is better because of his flexibility." Back then, Jason was 14, Jennifer was 12 and Jimmie was 9. We started them with a foundation but you took them and gave them guidance. You shared your knowledge and gave them strength and courage. Today, Jason is 25, Jennifer is 22, and Jimmie is 19.

During the dinner, many in the studio came up to my husband and me and gave us many praises and great compliments. They all said, "What wonderful kids you have and how proud you must be as parents. They are such fine kids on and off the mat." Although we took all of the credit, we know that we knew that part of it had to do with you and your teachings. You continued to push them and challenge them to set and achieve their goals and to never give up. You gave them courage to face the outside world and played a huge part in molding them into who they are today. We are so pleased that our kids have become such caring, responsible, trust worthy, and respectful people, thanks to your guidance. We are forever grateful to you, your past and present instructors and your fine studio.

Lastly, we, as parents are proud and thankful to you. You have acknowledged Jason with such high regards and respects. It was truly an honor to witness this during the ceremony. It is difficult for us to express our thoughts and emotions in words. I know Jason will cherish this honor forever.

We are so fortunate to have you, your lovely Nina, and the children in our lives. We hope you will continue on with your teachings and we wish you nothing but the best in the years to come.


With Love,

Sally and Norman

 Dear Mr. Fariborz
I know I have told you "thank you" for so many things. This time I just feel like thank you isn’t enough…although I am not sure what it is. You and your studio have infiltrated our lives and turned our world upside down!! Positively of course. When Matthew walked into the studio 2 ½ years ago he was a shy, quiet and anxious boy. He has now just received his black belt and is strong, outgoing, self confident, and an incredible young man. In her letter, Ms. Allison reminded Matthew of when (in the beginning) he sat in my car and refused to come into the studio, crying and screaming. After many attempts of trying to encourage him I enlisted Dru’s help. Matthew knew her from school. She was finally able to cajole him into the studio, and onto the mat. There were several moments of those moments in the beginning. They have now turned into moments where Matthew can’t get enough of the studio. As he tells his friends "it’s my second home." Don’t get me wrong we still have moments of crying or meltdowns…but not about karate. And when he does have those moments he is able to turn to inner strength he has gained, and work through it. That is truly a gift you and all of your instructors have given to our family. I look forward to our family’s continued journey at TKC.

With much love & gratitude,

Norine

Dear Mr.Fariborz,
This past weekend, I had the privilege of witnessing my son, Jake, become a Black Belt. In this letter, I hope to convey the gratitude I feel toward you for all you have done o help Jake achieve this monumental goal and for the way you helped him achieve it.

Jake is the youngest of our three children. Even when I had only two children, though, I would dream about a third child, a boy, so when Jake was born, I felt as though I had already known him for many years, almost as though I had been waiting for him. He was not as easy as my older two children. He wanted to be with me every minute. He couldn't fall asleep without playing with my hair and watching my face. He felt insecure in new situations, and rambunctious boys made him cling to me even more. Each time we signed him up for a sport, he wanted to quit because the coach spoke rudely or the boys were mean. I worried about him, but I also realized he was unusually smart and that he'd probably find his own way to succeed. Eventually, I figured out that Jake did best when I let him lead. That was definitely different for me!

When Jake told us that he wanted to learn karate, we were excited that he was showing interest in a sport, but that was about as much as we thought about it. We knew about you from Nikki Watkinson, who is our oldest son's godmother, so we signed Jake up at TKC. In the beginning, Jake was older than a lot of the kids in his karate class, and this made him uncomfortable. You noticed this right away, though, and moved him to the teen class. Pretty soon, Jake asked us not to come into the karate studio during his class. He just wanted to be dropped off and picked up. That was definitely different for Jake!
In the beginning, we thought TKC would be a great place for Jake to challenge himself physically. I didn't know then how many opportunities Jake would find to grow at TKC. What a gift you have created! Over the fast four years, Jake's experiences at TKC have been truly transformative. When he started taking SWAT, Jake began to understand the depth of your words during those lessons influenced him profoundly. Jake has always been a thinker, but you have made him think more deeply. Jake has always been a hard worker, but you made him understand the importance of experiencing the journey, not just reaching the goal. I will always remember when you talked about making progress instead of attaining perfection. Jake had spent weeks worried about his red belt test, and your words put everything into perspective…immediately.

On Saturday, when you bestowed your own black belt on Jake, I was deeply moved. I felt that I was watching a moment that was always meant to be, if that makes sense. It was just the most natural thing in the world, even though it was always the most special thing that's ever happened to Jake. Just as Jake was always part of my destiny, I think that you were always part of his. I'm grateful that he met you so early in his life and that he has a gift of learning from you and getting to know you these past four years. I know his life will always be better because you have been part of it.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Julie K

Dear Mr. Fariborz:

I am writing you to thank you. I have just returned a couple of hours ago form Taipei, Taiwan where I tested for some of the lessons that I have learned at your school.

You once said that “…you do not test when you are ready, but when is time to test.” As you may know Taiwan was hit with a 7.3 earthquake the night of Monday.

We, two co-workers and myself, arrived at Taipei on Saturday for a 2 week business trip visiting several suppliers. Monday night at 2:00 AM I was awakened by the earthquake. On the 14 floor of the hotel, without lights and holding on the doorframe of my room. I sincerely was waiting for the building to collapse.

To my surprise I felt no fear nor panic while the entire floor was shaking violently, this lack of fear is a lesson about myself that I will need to understand.

When the movement stopped, my first reaction was to run downstairs and outside, but as I was leaving my room there were two ladies across the hall that were clearly dazed, scared and without a clue on what to do. I knew that at any moment my knees would start shaking (I am far from being a brave man) and if I stopped I would probably not be able to help myself, let alone them.

Why I did it is another lesson that I would have to explore, but I helped them to find the flashlights under the night bed, told them to put shoes on, get their passport and walk to the stairs. When they were ready to leave, I realized that I did not have any of the things that I had advised them to take, so I returned to my room and collected the Items.

I knocked on my friend’s door and when they did not answer I figured they would already be gone, and fortunately that was the case. Upon exiting the hotel, I joined a group of people across the street. Among them were my partners, as we talked about our reactions, I realized that the two ladies actually helped me to maintain my thoughts calm and clear.

One lesson that I did learn is that the best way for me to beat fear in a crisis is not to turn my back on someone if I can help them, somehow I will be helping myself. As we stood under the rain I began to use your teaching, the few that I was able to learn.

One was truth to myself, because my two partners were not considering leaving Taipei until the business trip was over or until their bosses told them to leave. In my list of priorities leaving Taipei as soon as possible was number #1, without a doubt. I believe that when you teach me that I am not what I do, (I am not an engineer, this is what I do), you prepared me for this test, and I was ready. The reasons for me to stay when such high risks are in place were based on the things that I do, what the outside world expected me to de, not related to things that I would be doing if I had six months to live.

Around me other people were trying to get answers to the question: “Should I leave or stay to finish my business deals?”

They were looking for answers outside themselves, not exercising their “RIGHT TO CHOOSE”, I was calm and happy that I did not have to struggle with my decision. My partners were trying to find in the dark for reasons to leave but not sure to take the decision by themselves. One of them went back inside for a quick call to the US to ask what to do.

One hour later he was still talking on the phone with his boss, because his boss was telling him what to do, his boss was giving him over the phone a list of suppliers t o call to find out if they would be able to ship things on the due to the earthquake, and this was going on in the middle of the aftershocks.

My other partner also called his boss to get a feeling if it was OK to leave. The earthquake happened at about 2:00 AM, and by 7:15 AM I was on an airplane flying out of Taipei, my two partners still struggling with their thoughts were seated in the row behind me. During this ordeal, I have witnessed compassion, fear, the power of “First things first”, and so many thing that I will not be able to understand and learn from them until some time, probably a long time.

One thing I am sure, the things that I did and the decisions I took were definitely based on your teachings, do not ask me which ones, but I trusted my instinct and you were fundamental in helping me develop them.

Nevertheless, the feeling of relief that I felt upon exiting that hotel did not last long, it lasted until I learned of the number dead and injured, I prayed for them.

On a final note, the epicenter of the earthquake was in a city called Nantou; we had planned to fly to Nantou at 8:00 AM.

It will take years to digest all of the lessons presented to me Monday night.

For now, I am thankful for the gift of life and what I have done with it.

Respectfully

Adrian

LAW OFFICES OF
MARK E. PANUNZIO, P.A.
ATTORNEY AT LAW

May 6th, 2008

Dear Master Fariborz:

It is with great anticipation that I await your arrival at our black belt graduation ceremonies in October. I still recall your knife fighting class you gave when you were in town last. Over the years when Mater Sensei speaks of you and his years of study, his passion motivates me not only through the respect in his voice but the emotion in his eyes. I just received my black belt candidacy rank last week and am due to earn my black belt in your presence in October (unless Sensei comes to his senses J).

Looking back on previous readings I had done on your career, three words were highlighted; the teacher, the blend, and the team. I hold these three concepts close in my training and in fact some of my favorite times in class are when I get to conduct the exercises or provide some other type of assistance to fellow junior students. I too find great satisfaction in teaching others not only Martial Arts but in all aspects of a positive outlook on life.
Sincerely,
Mark E. Panunzio

Good day Mr. Fariborz.

My name is Ron. My daughter Lauren and I, are new students at your very impressive Martial Arts studio. I just wanted to tell you, that even though we are new, that you, Mr. Faramarz and the rest of your staff, have made us feel as if we were long time veterans of the school. We have been treated with the same kindness and respect as everyone else. We have never felt like "outsiders" and have been seamlessly accepted into your extended family. For this, we are truly humbled. We always feel very comfortable and welcomed in the studio.

Our journey here, began like this...For the first five years of Lauren's life, she was my and my wife's only child. She was our little princesses, whom we doted upon endlessly. She had our full attention, 24/7. Subsequently however, my wife Jodi and I had two more daughters. They are now ages two and one years old. The new babies, obviously require much of our attention now, and Lauren has felt sort of left out. I'm not a psychologist by any means, but I suppose that Lauren started to act out, somewhat negatively, to garner more attention, any attention, that she was so accustomed to before. This started to become problematic, so we sought out advice. We were told to keep her busy with fun activities like sports and such. We enrolled her in dance and gymnastics glasses, but she just didn't take to those activities very enthusiastically. It was a chore to get her to go, so we stopped. I believe she felt like we were just passing her off to someone else so that we could be with her sisters more.

One day, she came home from school and told us that some of her friends and classmates were taking Karate, and that girls could participate in to too. So we talked to the kids parents, our friends Jennifer and Marni. They couldn't stop praising TKC and said it was an awesome place, and that it really helped their children with issues that they had also. They suggested that we should definitely give it a try........ We did.

At first I was apprehensive and Lauren was nervous. But as soon as she put on her uniform and saw Alec, Cole and Jake in theirs, she was hooked. She was so hooked that, one time at work I was given some really good company Dodger tickets. Lauren loves going to the Dodgers games, but the game fell on a Tuesday night. Well of course, Tuesday is Karate day, and guess what? She didn't want to go to the game because she didn't want to miss her karate class! It was then that we knew that this was the place for her. She loves it, and according to Mr. Ash and Miss Sally, Lauren is doing really well, and has already earned her third Black Tip! (my wife tears up with pride whenever Lauren earns a Tip) Now Lauren wants to be like Miss Lilly someday, in the blue SWAT uniform, and help to teach the new kids. This experience has been more that we could have hoped for.

The only drawback was that Lauren was still doing this activity alone, and she wanted to do something with Mom or Dad like before her sisters arrived on the scene. This is where my journey into the Martial Arts begins... I figured that this was something that her and I could do together, two White Belts, working to achieve our first goal of reaching the rank of Orange Belt together. But how could I participate? I'm too old (47), too fat (245 lbs.) and out of shape I thought. My wife asserted that aside from being there with Lauren, that this was something that I needed to do for my health and wellbeing, if I wanted to be around a long time to see our daughters grow up.

So I started working out, walking, bike riding and light weight lifting on my own. Jodi helped me with my diet and, lo and behold, I lost 20 pounds and felt pretty good. I started the process of quitting smoking and yet I still didn't feel ready to take Karate. That's when Marni heard of my dilemma and told me "Why loose more weight to take Karate when you could lose more weight while taking Karate? Why not start now?" So I went on the TKC web sight and started reading the wonderful testimonials of Marni and other people. I came away inspired and convinced that I could do this.

Mr. Faramarz set me up with a uniform and a success journal, and I've been taking classes with Mr. Amir ever since. Is it easy? No. Is it fun? Yes. Is it worth it? Absolutely. Do we love it? Most definitely!!! Lauren and I practice our Art and study the Creed and Salutes at home together now. And since she is further along that me, she is in the role of instructor and I her student :) Lauren's disposition and behavior have improved dramatically and she is even doing better in school. I feel re-energized and see the doldrums of middle age melting away. Of course this is all made possible because of Lauren's mom, my wife's, constant support and encouragement. Jodi's workout is taking care of all of us everyday, but I hope in the near future, she can join us too.

Thank you very much Sir, for offering us the place and opportunity to do something really, really special... that is working hard on our new dreams and goals of reaching the exalted level of Black Belts.

Sincerely and respectively,

Ron

Hi, i'm Riley, Reece and Avas Dad, David.
I thought that I would just say a little about what I, as a parent came away with from the Black Belt test.
I believe that my kids realized that their limits are far higher than they thought. I see that they understand that being a Black Belt is more than just a belt and lessons and tests.
I hope they understand that Black Belt is a way of living, not just a way of life. They understand that they will always be learning, provided they leave themselves open to the knowledge that is available to them from their instructors, classmates and parents.
Last, I believe profoundly that their experiences will influence all that they do for all their lives.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Respectfully,
Robert Dante
ROBERT DANTE
Bullwhip Shows - Performances
Demos - Group or Private Workshops
(Dante's illustrated book, "Bullwhip Magic,"
will be published in September) 310-281-7858 http://www.bullwhip.net

Dear Sir,

                I hope you don’t mind but I want to share my story with you.  In 1989 after a horseback riding accident fluid began to build up on my brain, left undiagnosed for three years until found I went to surgery which would forever alter the course of my life and the life of my family.  I had what was to be the first of seven surgeries, three times I was found in coma by my then eight-year-old son.   In 1993 I was sent to Spaulding hospital for re-hab.  I had lost total control of all my muscles and was taking 28 to 40 pills a day some for seizure, some for pain.  The doctor there told me to expect six months of hard work.  He said “get out of bed and exercise or sit here and pity yourself”.  Never one for pity I exercised all day and most of the night.  The nurses were always on the look out for what I was up to. 

            Two weeks to the day I went home.  In the fall of 1995 I was searching for a sport for my son.  We visited many karate centers and fund personal best.  This is where I knew I wanted my son to train, he also loved its so much he spoke of it all the time.  One year into his training I joined, never being good as a spectator I wanted to do and is a part of this village this peace so full of electricity and respect for one an other that thrive her. Just as I was about to test for my yellow belt I had a major seizure.  My doctor explained I was loosing weight and getting so much stronger he had not realized I now needed a strong anti seizure medicine to compensate for this new and healthy me.  But I remember telling master Rappold I would test for my belt.  Having suffered a small stroke losing partial speed and loss of my right side.  I joined myself once again exercising day and nights.  To every one’s surprise except my own I did test that month.  So the martial Arts have saved my life.  It’s not only kicking and punching, it’s a state of mind.  I’m now 76 lbs. lighter and only take sour seizure pills. 

            My biggest thrill is to meet people like you.  You are truly an inspiring.  I also have the pleasure of helping along with my son to teach Master Tracy’s three-year-olds, that is my greatest joy.  My son and I are very close he is 12 now and in today’s world it’s so hard to keep our children safe and teach them values.  With the help of our friends at personal best our very own village I know he will grow up to be a fine young and respectable man.  We’ve read your book twice and our favorite story is “Have we forgotten and Principles of Black Belt in action” .  We are indeed fortunate that master Rappold invites such quality people to our seminars.  It was a privilege and honor to work with you.  Thanks for such a wonderful book.  Maybe you’ll remember me I was one of the two moms on Friday night.  My son was one of the younger blue belts.  Because of the pump in my head I didn’t attend Saturday’s grappling session.

God Bless

Hello Sir,

    I am in Florida and getting settled in. It is a definite challenge not knowing anyone or anything out here. Everything is going well so far. The job is excellent and for once I feel like I am working doing something I love to do. I am handling all of the Professional and Amateur boxing/Martial arts equipment, promotion, events and athlete sponsorship.

Lot's of work but very exciting. I started training again at Mr. Lavallees. My first class was interesting. I dawned a white belt and realized truly for the first time that it is just a color. I wore it with pride and was filled with such joy and love for the art itself and not the "wow your a black belt" appeal. I guess it is never to late to continue on the journey of "getting it". I will keep on the path of excellence and utilize everything you have taught me to be the best I can be. One thing that always comes to mind when thinking of Black Belt training was when all the adult candidates where gathered on the small mat and you asked one very important thing of us and it is stuck in my mind forever. You asked that we, no matter what always protect your name as you would ours. I have lived by that on a daily basis.

    I look forward to using the platform you generously gave me as a Martial Artist to better my knowledge in this new adventure I am taking in business, life and martial arts. I will keep you updated. I hope all is well with you and the entire TKC family .I love and miss you guys.

Love & Respect,

Jarett Perelmutter

October 12, 2001

Dear Mr. Azhakh,

Every time I look in our son’s room, I see the display of the nine belts, including the black belt, which our son Michael earn through training at your facility. It reminds me of the of the wonderful times I spent several years ago, going to classes with Michael and watching him grow and learn. Not only did Michael learn many defensive moves, how to fall correctly, and several different kicks and Hapkido moves, you and your teachers helped to instill in him the values and ideas which we can now see reflected in the excellence of his school work.

Michael always strives for excellence in everything he dose. The last two years, he’s brought brought home straight “A” report cards. Last month, he had his Bar-Mitzvah, and has started completing some of the five-year goals which he set up for himself.

Certainly, my husband and I are tow very proud parents of a wonderful child. I believe that the training which he received at the Team Karate Center helped him to become the great child who he is today, and the great adult that he will be in the future.

Thank you for being an important part in our Family’s lives.

Sincerely,

Leanne S. Hamidzadeh

P.S. The graduation was awesome and I also truly appreciate the pre-exam time given to Alexander by Mr. Saeed, Mr. Shervin, and Mr. Dory. At the 11^th hour Alexander really came alive. I too received a lesson in all of this!

I have wanted to share some thoughts with you many times, but we are all so busy, but this is better shared in writing to clarify my thoughts.
My son, Steven wanted to "take" Karate and we happened to find your studio. At the time, I was not sure what outcome I expected, but hoped that it would be an activity that he would enjoy. I watched his concentration and self discipline improve dramatically. While he was taking class, I had the opportunity to experience a number of then instructors. I was always impressed with their patience, sincerity, interest and motivation with the kids. It was strange that I learned a lot watching from the sidelines. You have taught your instructors how to bring out the best in the students and themselves. Many times I would take a book or my briefcase and open it up to get "something accomplished". It was listening to the subtle messages from the instructors that I learned to watch Steven and just enjoy what he was doing. I actually enjoyed watching the interaction between the instructors and the students. They were able to teach the kids many things in the time they worked one on one with them. In fact, I would guess the time the instructors spend with the kids, can exceed the time
many parents spend with their children; gently guiding them in understanding themselves. It was truly what is often called quality time. The instructors certainly earn the respect of the children the way most parents would like to, by example.

Along with Steven, John of course was involved with the program. He certainly enjoys both the classes and teaching. There have been a number of ramifications, as I am sure you have experienced. From this perspective I have seen unbelievable changes in John. At one time, his integrity was something that he had difficulty with. It is a self perpetuating dilemma, if your promises are insincere, one cannot expect to succeed. There wasn't any real commitment to make a difference. In working with you, he really began to look at himself and decide to be different. It is so easy to do what you have always done, and harder to take that step to the next level. He really looks up to you as a role model, and is inspired to reach beyond what he thinks is possible. I know there are times when he is not living the black belt commitment, and he finds it more difficult to "get" to Karate. He always comes back, and he feels better about himself and virtually everything else when he is participating in Karate. I know it is primarily your expectations that people can be what they decide, with no excuses. That truth continues to guide him to grow and model himself after you and the other instructors in the studio. I personally thank you for being someone that looked at the potential in John, and gently show him the future is his to decide.

Now for the real purpose...
In watching your instructors and yourself, I have a tremendous amount of respect for you. It is with sincerity that I thank you for being a part of my family, and letting us share your family. The studio is such a warm environment, from the moment you walk in and Faramarz greets me with such enthusiasm, as though I have made his day happier, to when each instructor acknowledges my presence. I think you have created a true family, not just a place to learn Karate forms, but to experience and want to belong and participate. It is with great pleasure that I have known you, your family, and the family of instructors at the studio. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to experience it with my family.

Dear Mr. Fariborz,

         I recently visited your website and had the pleasure of reading through your inspirational stories and quotes.  Just reading through them gives a person such a wonderful feeling of self assurance and peace.  I just wanted to send you some of my favorite quotes.  I also wanted to take this time to thank for all your teachings.  Not only kicks, punches or forms,  but those that I will use on a daily basis throughout my life.  You taught me that through setting short term and long term goals one has direction.  The first long term goal I set that day was earning my Black Belt.  I can never describe how it feels to reach your first long term goal. However, I can tell you that the experience has allowed me to set and reach several goals in life.  There are still numerous long term goals that I still need to reach, through my short term goals I have the confidence that I will reach them.   Thank you for being an inspirational mentor.
 

A teacher affects eternity;
he can never tell where his influence stops.
Henry Brooks Adams

There comes that mysterious meeting in life
when someone acknowledges who we are and what we can be,
igniting the circuits of our highest potential.
Rusty Berkus