Tenets of Tae Kwon Do

COURTESY


Is the behavior that comes from a respectful attitude. Respect is the attitude that stems from humility. Each student must recognize how much there is to learn and that it is necessary to have someone teach the way. It is respect that will enable the student to be open to learning that comes from the instructor and from the deep places in the heart where spirituality is nourished. This is why we bow to our instructor. This is why we bow as we enter and leave the dojangi. This is why we bow to ourselves whenever we practice alone before the wall of mirrors in the dojang or in our basement.

 

INTEGRITY


Is the completeness one attains from adhering to a code of values. For example, sincerity, honesty and loyalty towards oneself and others. Wrong doing can lead to a path of personal deceit and destruction that stems from feelings guilt which is the conscious mind allowing one to see the error of his ways.

 

PERSEVERANCE


Is the nectar of sweat that yields the honey of accomplishment. The martial arts are a lifelong venture. This venture can be begun by the timid but it can only be continued by those who discover perseverance within themselves. This quality can be learned as long as the student simply says "one more try." Perseverance means that one has learned the art of living with adversity while still keeping one’s sights on goals.

 

SELF-CONTROL


Mastery over one’s behavior is a vital component in the maturing process. So many children have benefited from their experience with martial arts because they have learned self-control. This enables them to direct their energies in creative ways such as attaining better grades in school, having more respect and acceptance of responsibilities given from teachers and parents, and developing a circle of friends based on the positive human values of gentleness and caring rather than rowdiness or intimidation.

 

INDOMITABLE SPIRIT


This is the will to do one’s best with all one has against even the most insurmountable odds. It reflects a personal desire to achieve through setting and working toward goals.