The Gift Has Already Been Given! – Adam Zwan

Starting in January 2013 I was asked by a gentleman to help him run his academy teaching Taekwondo.  Being physically active and enjoying exercise as much as I do, I did not blink before I agreed to help out.  I was told that class members would range from 3 to 16 years old and that I would be using the art of Taekwondo to teach self defense as well as improve behavioral aspects within the community, at home, and at school.

Anyone has the ability to throw a punch but it takes technique and skill to defend one’s self and avoid physical confrontations  Each class involves teaching proper form and usage of Taekwondo as well as life skills, such as respect, discipline, self control, honor, loyalty, setting goals in education, and much more.  The physical art is tested through the performance of various movements. Progress reports and parent meetings reveal improved behavior outside the academy.

Following months of teaching and training several classes, I was pleasantly informed that my lessons of both Taekwondo and life skills were promoting successful results and the parents of class members wanted to thank me by giving me a gift of some kind.  I was asked to think of something I would really like to receive as a gift.  A full-time job, a girlfriend, and 20-20 vision were at the top of my wish list, none of which could be given or bought for me but rather accomplished on my own.

Nearing the end of my thoughts about something I would like to receive as a ‘Thank you” for making a difference in the lives of others, I wrote a letter to the parents of my class members.  In short, I told the parents that “The gift has already been given.”  Hearing that my lessons of Taekwondo and life skills have improved the lives and behaviors of class members was one of the greatest gifts I could ever receive.  Knowing that I am making a difference in the community as well as in the lives of others is reason enough to wakeup every day with a smile.