At one of our drop-in classes, I overheard one of my parents talking to a new parent. The new parent asked "Why do you pay so much money and dedicate so much time bringing your son and daughter to martial arts classes?" They replied, “I am not actually paying for just my kid’s martial arts lessons, uniforms or tests. It is more than paying for Tang Soo Do martial arts training, so much more. I am actually not paying at all, but investing in the following:

• I am investing in teaching my kids that when they become tired and feel like quitting – they don’t.
  
• I am investing for them to be exposed to amazing instructors that will teach them that Tang Soo Do is not just about punching, kicking or blocking, but about life.
• I am investing in my kids to learn to be disciplined.
• I am investing in my kids to learn to take care of themselves, no matter what life will throw at them.
• I am investing in my kids to learn to work with others and to be a proud, supportive, kind and respectful of other people, dojang members, teachers and Masters.
• I am investing in my kids to learn to deal with disappointment and failure, when they struggle to succeed or fall during a move they have practiced a thousand times, but they still get up. They learn to be determined to do their BEST next time...
• I am investing in my kids to learn to set and accomplish goals.
• I am investing in my kids to learn that it takes many hours of hard work and practice to succeed – that success does not happen overnight.
• I am investing in my kids so that they can learn to be part of something – a member of the dojang, instead of spending countless hours in front of a TV, phone or computer.

I could go on how there are numerous studies that show how this form of martial arts improves brain activity, reduces dementia and Alzheimer’s, and promotes whole body awareness and balance. But in reality, I don't pay for Tang Soo Do training; I am investing in the opportunities that Tang Soo Do provides my children to develop attributes that will serve them throughout their lives, and teaches them to serve and bless the lives of others. Given the change I have seen in my own children’s lives since they have been taking Tang Soo Do here, it is a great investment!