I love this poem by Kalye Todo, Philippines

"When a person trains once, nothing happens. When a person forces himself to do a thing a hundred or a thousand times, then he certainly has developed in more ways than physical. Is it raining? That doesn't matter. Am I tired? That doesn't matter, either. Then willpower will be no problem."
"Running: running: hear the beat!

Busting lungs and pounding feet.

Straining: gaining: 'til your done:

Or you have the race well-won.

Racing: Pacing: rather die:

Than give up or let them by.

"All men dream: but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake in the day to find out it was vanity: but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dreams with open eyes, to make it possible."

Visit his You Tube Channel at: http://www.youtube.com/user/kalyetodo

Detroit D'Lux Charity Challenge Tournament to benefit Scoliosis

New Friends! Sayow, for Black Belt Grand Champion

Performing "Mayon" Open Hand

What a BLAST!

A couple months ago a martial artist friend of mine, Craig Marks, told me about a tournament in Detroit. He said it was a lot of fun and that I should give it a shot. He also let me know that it's for a great cause-charity. I think they sponsor a different cause every year and donate a percentage of the proceeds to that cause. This year it was Scoliosis. If you've been here much, you know that I am very passionate about helping others who may not be as fortunate as me and about having a compassionate heart and spirit. Mix that with the love of martial arts and competition and ITS ON!

I WAS AMAZED! The place was packed and I mean completely packed in, and you can see from my pictures that there was STANDING ROOM ONLY!
It was so interesting to see so many different styles, schools, colorful uniforms, and a wonderful ethnic mix too. We saw Wushoo, Kung Fu, Karate, Tae Kwon Do, and lots and lots more. This year, they got to see ARNIS!
I have to admit, it was a bit stressful for me because they do things a little differently on the east side of the state. When you register, they give you cards for each event and you have to listen for your event very carefully because when it's called, you take your card to the ring, give it to the judges, and that is your pass to compete. If you're not there-You miss out. I was glad mom was there to help me be where I needed to be. Dad had Noah and were running the camera. Things were pretty calm for the first hour or so...then I really got put to the test but here's where I can thank Master Bong and Sensei, and Mushtaq for the conditioning because it really paid off. I was called to ring 2 for Traditional Weapons. That went great. I had about 8-10 competitors. Bow Staffs, Scythe, Single Stick(but a style I did not recognize), and me with Sickles. I performed Sagasa San Got, it went very well. I took 1st. Then, the game was on. I was almost immediately called back to ring 2 for Forms. While I was waiting for my turn, they called me in ring 1 for Open Weapons. Since I was last to compete in a field of maybe 12 in Open Hand Forms, they said to go to ring 1 where I would be the first competitor in Open Weapons. There I did Sayow to "Let the Bodies hit the Floor" by Drowning Pool". That was so fun! Loved having the music to pump me up and I think the crowd liked the Tali-bongs! Mom said that corner of the gym was packed by the time I finished. I don't know because as soon as I bowed at the end of my form, the scorekeeper from ring 2 commanded that I get there now because I was up. I didn't even get a minute in between, I ran straight from performing in ring 1 to doing Mayon(Open Hand form), in ring 2. OH MAN was that hard. I had a hard time catching my breath because of the vocal cord dysfunction, but I "sucked it up", took a deep breath, said a quick prayer...and went for it. There were about 12 or more competitor in Open Hand. Lots of really good and interesting competition. Too bad I didn't see a lot of them because the second I was done with Mayon, I was being called back to ring 1 for judges call. I am very happy to tell you that I took 1st in Open Weapons. Thanks Master Bong! I owe it to you. I am very grateful to have you, sharing your wisdom and knowledge with me. I'm not sure Detroit has seen a lot of the Philippine martial arts...but I think they really liked it. NEXT! As soon as I shook the judges hands, I was called back to ring 2 for judges call there. WOW WOW. 1st in Open Hand! YAY! But my story is not done yet. I was just beginning to settle down a little and I went up to t he front to get my trophies and guess what! They called me back to ring 2 to to compete for BLACK BELT GRAND CHAMPION! I know, you're asking, "Why Black Belt Grand Champion, when I'm a Brown Belt?" Well, In the Open Weapons competition, they did not have a division for under black belts so they told me if I wanted to compete, I'd have to move up and compete with the Black Belts. So I did. Since I got first, everyone who took first in any black belt event was eligible to compete for GRAND CHAMPION. So I did.-
So, less than 10 minutes after competing in open hand and open weapons, I competed for BLACK BELT GRAND CHAMPION. There were so many awesome martial artists. There was a girl with a bow staff that was incredible. I performed Sayow again to music. (A very special THANK YOU! TO JEREMY FOR RUNNING THE MUSIC FOR ME!) I think they really like seeing something different- I love Philippine Martial arts! I had so many people asking, "What Style is that!" "What is your school?", "Who is your teacher?", "Where are you from?" "What weapon is that?" It made me very proud and at the same time very grateful and honored to say, "It is Philippine Martial Arts, called Arnis and I train with Grand Master Bong Jornales in Holland Michigan." I really believe that the Philippine martial arts do have a place in open competition and we need to make that voice heard. The only way to do that is to go and compete. Let them see what we do-get their respect the good old fashioned way-earn it. I know, it's very frustrating that there is no stick fighting in open events which is the core of what we do, but the way to get there is by going and doing and letting them know that we are out there, we are fierce competitors, and that the PHILIPPINE MARTIAL ARTS deserve the attention and respect. With Fight Quest, a lot of eyes were opened. By Blogging, eyes are opened. We can also open eyes by competing, performing, speaking, writing articles, etc. I would encourage Pacific Island Artists to take the steering wheel and DRIVE!

Thank you Detroit D'Lux Charity Tournament Director Adam Lux, tournament officials and judges, and competitors-for having an open mind, open heart, and true martial spirit. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to compete in a fun and ALL STYLE friendly event. I made many new friends and I think I introduced some to the Philippine Martial arts that they never knew before.

BLACK BELT GRAND CHAMPION BABY~!!!!!!!!!!!!

Never Give Up...

When life gets rough and the road is long
And it seems there is no light
When the dreams you had somehow seem lost
Remember to never give up the fight
When you look in the mirror and see a stranger take a closer look inside
Come out of the shadows and out of the darkness
There is no need to run and hide
Never give up on you
Never forget who you are
Always remember wherever you go
You’ll find that shining star
When you think about the life that you once had
A memory of the way things used to be
Remember that the things that were taken away
Are not the things that will set you free
Remember that you have the power within yourself
And a will that can never be broken
You will survive and grow stronger
This much I know for the angels in Heaven have spoken
Never give up on you
Never forget who you are
Always remember wherever you go
You’ll find that shining star
When you thought the path you chose
Would lead to you to where you want to go
Remember that sometimes the path must be changed
In order for you to grow
When you thought your life had no meaning
Remember that we all have our own special gifts
Look deep inside yourself and sometimes you’ll find
Those things you might have missed
Never give up on you
Never forget who you are
Always remember wherever you go
You’ll find that shining star
We all have the power to change our lives
We’re all born with greatness inside
Don’t let your fears hold you back from dreams
And don’t ever feel you have to hide
Climb that rainbow and reach for the stars
And find your shining light
Remember you’ll survive whatever life brings
And your spirit will shine so bright
Never give up on you
Never forget who you are
Always remember wherever you go
You’ll find that shining star

Copyright Donna Webster 2002

I found this poem online, and i thought that it said alot in a way that i cant, but i want to.

Christmas Season....

This Christmas season has opened my eyes and just taught me some things that i would like to share with you.
Well, as you all know, i live a very busy life with all the martial arts, school, and just teenage life in general. At times, things get really stressful, and it is so incredibly important to not lose sight of what is really important.

1. God
2.Family
-then
3.you're hobby (martial arts)

So, we start with #1. God. I can tell you that i believe 100% that i could not be who i am today without god on my side. He walks with me, he lifts me up and gives me everything i could possibly need. But at the same time, i work for him. I teach his ways, and i preach his name. I want all of you to know that with GOD with you, you can do anything, and be anybody that you want to be. You just have to trust in him.
Now i know that some of you are saying.." i have prayed and prayed, and nothing has happened". Well, God has a plan, and all things happen for a reason, and in time, at the RIGHT time. He WILL answer, and miracles will happen.

Now, we go to #2. Family. I can tell you one thing. I have the best family in the whole world! I couldnt ask for better. They all put aside time, and they ALL help me accomplish my dreams. My mom does the P.R work, and gets my name out and in the papers and news. My dad takes me to all my classes, seminars, and all around the world for tournaments. And, last but not least, my little brother is always there encouraging me, he goes to all of my performances and tournaments.....and of course he tells all of his little friends " dont mess with me! my sister is a 4x world champion!!" :D and thats always gives me a laugh!
So, as you can see, my family plays a huge role from just a little 8 year old farm girl, to a world champion. They are always here for me, no matter how hard or stressful life can get.

I guess i just want you all to know that without God and my Family, i could not have done this. I owe it to them for keeping me going, and going strong.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL AND HAVE A FUN, SAFE HOLIDAY SEASON~!~

A Thankful Thanksgiving!

Isn't it amazing how God always has a plan and he puts it in place even before we have a clue .

A long long time ago when I was just starting out in martial arts I competed on the same local martial arts circuit as Craig Marks. Mr. Marks is now an instuctor at Gerald R. Ford Job Corp. To make a long story short, Mr. Marks was recently reading about me on the internet and invited me to speak and perform at Job Corp for his students. When I was there, I was introduced to Jean Pierre- a truly amazing human being who is beautiful, inside and out despite the difficulty life has presented him with.

We always have a houseful on Thanksgiving. Mom cooks too much, we all eat too much, get fat, and have lots of fun! This year was no different. We had all the usual crowd, but this time, we added someone very special. Everyone, Meet Jean Pierre! He is from Rwanda-Africa. When he was very young he lost most of his family to war. He came to the United States as a refugee when he was sixteen but really doesn't have a family. Well,it wasn't long and little brother took care of that! Noah has always felt outnumbered by the girls in the family. Even the cats and dogs are girls! He has always wanted a brother. After they hung out together for just a little while, it was unofficially official. Noah had adopted Jean Pierre and Mom wasn't far behind! Now he has a family, and we have a big brother! We're all Thankful to have Jean Pierre!

One thing leads to another and it all happens according to what God has planned.

Bedard Black Belt Center, Tae Kwon Do

Flying Side in a very tight space!

Grand Master Marcel Bedard and I

A student taking a minute to read and enjoy her certificate.

Instructor Dennis Bedard with one of his youngest students

Me, Sonnie, Master Bedard, Instructor Dennis Bedard

POSITIVE, CARING, POSITIVE, CONFIDENCE, POSITIVE, RESPECT, POSITIVE, HONOR, POSITIVE, DEDICATION, POSITIVE, DISCIPLINE, POSITIVE, ENCOURAGEMENT, POSITIVE!
I think you can see where I'm headed with this!

On Tuesday, I had the honor of performing for and speaking to the students and martial arts family of Bedard Martial Arts Black Belt Center. It is a family owned and operated school. Grand Master Marcel Bedard, Mrs. Bedard, and 2nd Degree Black Belt Dennis Bedard are clearly dedicated to teaching all ages and especially children through positive interaction, reinforcement, and encouragement. I was invited to watch their very first belt testing in the new school and I was so impressed with the way in which each student was treated. Traditionally, proper technique is critical in early testing. Here, students are praised for their courage and confidence and for finishing what they started. Masters and teachers praise each individuals strong features and teach and direct without the pressure of unrealistic expectations. It is recognized when students do their very best and make the effort and try. Do not misinterpret what I'm trying to say. I think we can all agree that there are many "McDojo's" out there that turn out black belts like McDonald's does burgers because the focus is on quantity not quality. Bedard Black Belt Center is not one of them. With the wisdom of Grand Master Bedard to lead them, they are achieving something wonderful. They build amazing athletes with incredible skills (trust me! I saw for myself!) through positive and gentle instruction. Every student took something positive away from their belt testing. Every student felt more confident, more capable, and excited to learn more. A very strong sense of "Family" runs through the Bedard Martial Arts students, instructors, and their families. I wonder if the students and families know what a wonderful gift they have in the patient, gentle wisdom of Grand Master Marcel Bedard and his family. I can't wait to introduce Grand Master Bong Jornales and Grand Master Marcel. Different styles, same gentle yet powerful ways.


PS...I think I forgot to mention the young yellow belt students who jumped several people in a flying side kick to break a board held by Instructor Dennis Bedard all in a very confined space. I WAS STUNNED AND AMAZED at the skill level and control! I won't say "I can't do this...but I will say, I haven't learned this yet!"

Thank you to everyone at Bedards, for sharing your first testing and your martial arts family with me. I look forward to seeing you again in January!

"Change for Jared" One good deed at a time, we can change the world!

Please keep Jared and the entire Sweet Family in your prayers.
Jared and I

On Friday Nov. 14th, I had the amazing honor of hosting an assembly for Jared Sweet. Jared is a 7 year old first grader at Murray Lake Elementary School(Lowell Schools) with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Together, with the help of the Lowell HS JV Cheerleaders and The Kids on Jared's Team at Murray Lake Elementary, we had an awesome time. I performed twice and got to introduce Jared and talk to over 450 kids, parents, grandparents, and teachers about Jared and his fight against Muscular Dystrophy in an effort to create awareness and help raise much needed funds for research to find a cure.

Jared, Me, the JV Cheer team and the Kids on Jared's team from Murray Lake Elementary school

He may be small, but Jared is the toughest, strongest and bravest boy I know. He's fighting a horrible terrible mean disease and he needs our help.
I know I can't help everyone, but everyone can help someone and one of my favorite things to do is to use the gifts that I have been given to help others, especially kids like Jared who need our love and support the most - it feels good to do my part and you can too!

If you'd like to help Jared in his fight against muscular dystrophy, ASK ME HOW! Sue Sweet(Jared's mom)"All money raised to help Jared will go to PPMD(Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy) to be used to find a cure because that's what Jared needs most- a cure." The Sweet Family in Blue(Jared in front!) Lowell JV Cheerleaders, and me!

Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD), is the largest nonprofit organization in the United States focused entirely on Duchenne muscular dystrophy. PPMD is dedicated to funding research, raising awareness, promoting advocacy, connecting the community, and broadening treatment options. PPMD Website: www.parentprojectmd.org

What is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy? Duchenne muscular dystrophy is the most common fatal genetic disorder diagnosed in childhood, affecting approximately 1 in every 3,500 live male births (about 20,000 new cases each year). Because the Duchenne gene is found on the X-chromosome, it primarily affects boys; however, it occurs across all races and cultures. Duchenne results in progressive loss of strength and is caused by a mutation in the gene that encodes for dystrophin. Because dystrophin is absent, the muscle cells are easily damaged. The progressive muscle weakness leads to serious medical problems, particularly issues relating to the heart and lungs.

There is no cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.