The first thing you learn is how to fall. I learned this valuable lesson in Martial Arts along with many great tools. Growing up in the sixties friends and I would flock to the local Theater to see James Bond movies with great excitement. I never wanted to be a Bond girl, I wanted to be Bond. Times being what they were I was totally discouraged into believing that girls were not meant to do Karate, Judo, Kung Fu or any of the Martial Arts. No wonder I thought that boys had more fun in life. My passion progressed in high school as Bruce Lee hit the scene performing flawless exhibitions of Martial Arts with incredible speed. I wanted to be a warrior and immerse in the ancient wisdoms that cultivate such physical power. Life progressed as it often does and want-to lists transitioned into have-to-do lists. Somewhere along the way I navigated college, motherhood and the work place while dreams lay in the mist.
Three years ago I was determined to retain physical fitness; the only way to do that would be to place myself in a position of accountability. I had attempted working out in a gym, that was way too easy to find excuses why not to go. Then I teamed up and walked with a friend every morning; it was delightful we talked so much that the only cardio achieved was with our jaws. Weather was also a deterrent, too hot, too cold. Once again, it became easy to skip. One day I saw a flyer for family mixed Martial Arts classes and ventured in for a go-see. It was twice a week right between my work and home. So with nothing more in mind than a group atmosphere with a regular workout schedule, I joined.
Starting slowly the instructor or Sifu maintained an atmosphere of respect, combined with a spiritual sense to promote the teachings of many Martial Art forms. I grew accustomed to all the strange names for various holds and throws and was fascinated to hear the snippets of history that surround them. I enjoyed the brief time given to meditation to still our minds and body. The beginning of every class, Sifu would call to each student by name and ask “What are you grateful for today?” All of these movements had purpose, to develop mind, body and soul in balance. From curious exploration, I developed desire to strive and eventually consumed myself in Mixed Martial Arts as a significant part of life.
The day of my epiphany was generated by a guest instructor. She was a Brown Belt, approximately five foot three and 115 lbs. With remarkable speed, she spared a man who was six foot three, threw him and pinned him mercilessly to the mat. She then pointed out ways for a woman to create leverage, because most likely if you ever need to use it, your opponent will be larger and male. Her words penetrated to the deepest chambers of my heart, and I recalled my childhood dreams and realized Martial Arts definitely are for women.
Prior to that day, during a demonstration of a throw we were learning,it struck me, “Oh my God! I could get hurt!” That is how impetuous my decision to start Martial Arts had been. I was the girl in Gym class that could never climb the rope, turning a simple somersault was awkwardly impossible. Now as a Grandmother, I take on forward and backward rolls and land on my feet in a fighting stance. I throw men nearly twice my weight and soon will be awarded a Brown Belt. I take joy in the learning and rub Arnica on the bruises. I am stronger and quicker than I have ever been. My senses find mental awareness heightened. The best is the knowledge that I met challenges and excelled at things I had never dreamed possible.
Valerie Kelly
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