Shoka Magazine April 2023 – Clearwater Florida Trip

Sensei Smilling

 Marty Callahan

8th Degree Black Belt

“Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden,  meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, in order to assure the survival and success of  liberty.” – John F. Kennedy 35th President of the United States

Parents, families, students and friends,

Last month I traveled to Clearwater Florida to learn from some of the most knowledgeable and  successful martial art schools around. There is a lot more to it than you might imagine. I’ve been studying  with these school owners and developers for several years and I always come away with good stuff.  During the pandemic more than 60% of all martial art programs across the country were wiped out but  with their guidance the schools in their group not only survived but grew at the fastest rate they ever  have. Our school is in the strongest position it has ever been in. Your family benefits from this because we have what it takes to thrive in a hostile environment and we’re going to teach your child and your  family how to do that.

One of the take-a-ways from my trip to Clearwater Florida last month was a video from the Gottman  Institute titled the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. You can Google it. It’s only about 2½ minutes long and it goes on to explain the four negative communication patterns that if not fixed can predict the end to  90% of all relationships. These negative communication patterns are criticism, contempt, defensiveness  and stonewalling. The video goes on to explain the antidotes to these negative patterns. Check it out.  You’ll be glad you did. I’ll include more on this in May issue of Shoka News.

Here’s what’s in it this month’s Shoka Magazine:

  • Shoka News (our newsletter)
  • May Award Ceremony Announcement
  • Sensei Kevin Warner’s Return Announcement
  • Article: 2 Opposing Attitudes – Oh No! and Come On!
  • Cynthia Kohl
  • Hero’s Journey and SKLS Training – Our new book titled The Hero’s Journey-Act I the  Separation will be out in the next couple of months. You’re welcome to a copy when it does.  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Self-Defeating Rules 1-5 out of 14
  • Mystery Door Bell Ringer

Yours truly,

Marty Callahan, 8th Degree Black Belt

Founder, Chief Instructor, Author