"the Notebook of Elbert Hubbard"

I got back from our vacation in the desert recently...I found a book at the general store there titled, "the Notebook of Elbert Hubbard."  It's a used book, from 1927, 3 hole punched and bound in canvas...it's really cool.  I had never heard of Elbert Hubbard before I found his notebook...have you heard of him?  He's a really interesting figure from our past, so I'll be periodically posting quotes from this book.  He has an interesting way of putting things, and strange kind of wisdom, so please enjoy:

"It is easy to get everything you want, provided you first learn to do without the things you can not get."
-Elbert Hubbard

See you at the dojo!

Brian Colwell
We Love Kempo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
13240 Evening Creek Drive #314
San Diego, CA 92128
www.welovekempo.com

Wisdom from Native Americans: A Life of Service

The Wisdom of the Native Americans: the Ways of the People

"A Life of Service"

The public position of the Indian has always been entirely dependent upon our private virtue.  We are never permitted to forget that we do not live to ourselves alone, but to our tribe and clan.  Every child, from the first days of learning, is a public servant in training.

In our traditional ways, the child is kept ever before the public eye, from birth onward.  The birth would be announced by the tribal herald, accompanied by a distribution of presents to the old and needy.  The same thing would occur when the child took its first step, spoke its first word, had its ears pierced, shot his first game.

Not a step in the child's development was overlooked as an excuse to bring it before the public by giving a feast in its honor.  Thus the child's progress was known to the whole clan as to a larger family, and the child grew to adulthood with a sense of reputation to sustain.

At such feasts the parents often gave so generously to the needy that they almost impoverished themselves, thereby setting an example to the child of self-denial for the public good.  In this way, children were shown that big-heartedness, generosity, courage, and self-denial are the qualifications of a public servant, and from the cradle we sought to follow this ideal.

The young boy was encouraged to enlist early in the public service, and to develop a wholesome ambition for the honors of a leader and feastmaker, which could never be his unless he proved truthful and generous, as well as brave, and ever mindful of his personal chastity and honor.

As to the young girls, it was the loving parents' pride to have their daughters visit the unfortunate and the helpless, carry them food, comb their hair, and mend their garments.  The name "Wenonah," bestowed upon the eldest daughter, means "Bread Giver," or "Charitable One," and a girl who failed in her charitable duties was held to be unworthy of the name.

Boy Scouts: remember the lessons of the Order of the Arrow: "Cheerful Service"

See you at the top!

Brian Colwell
3rd Generation Eagle Scout &
Martial Arts Superhero!!!

Wisdom from Native Americans: Ohiyesa

"Is there not something worthy of perpetuation in our Indian spirit of democracy, where Earth, our mother, was free to all, and no one sought to impoverish or enslave his neighbor?"
--Ohiyesa

We do not chart and measure the vast field of nature or express her wonders in the terms of science; on the contrary, we see miracles on every hand--the miracle of life in seed and egg, the miracle of death in a lightning flash and in the swelling deep!

Wisdom from Native Americans: Chief Luther Standing Bear

"From Wakan Tanka, the Great Spirit, there came a great unifying life force that flowed in and through all things--the flowers of the plains, blowing winds, rocks, trees, birds, animals--and was the same force that had been breathed into the first man.  Thus all things were kindred, and were brought together by the same Great Mystery.

Kinship with all creatures of the earth, sky, and water was a real and active principle.  In the animal and bird world there existed a brotherly feeling that kept the Lakota safe among them.  And so close did some of the Lakotas come to their feathered and furred friends that in true brotherhood they spoke a common tongue.

The animals had rights--the right of man's protection, the right to live, the right to multiply, the right to freedom, and the right to man's indebtedness-- and in recognition of these rights the Lakota never enslaved an animal, and spared all life that was not needed for food and clothing.

This concept of life and its relations was humanizing, and gave to the Lakota an abiding love.  It filled his being with the joy and mystery of living; it gave him reverence for all life; it made a place for all things in the scheme of existence with equal importance to all.

The Lakota could despise no creature, for all were of one blood, made by the same hand, and filled with the essence of the Great Mystery.  In spirit, the Lakota were humble and meek.  'Blessed are the meek, for the shall inherit the earth'--this was true for the Lakota, and from the earth they inherited secrets long since forgotten.  Their religion was sane, natural, and human."

--Chief Luther Standing Bear
Teton Sioux

The Legend of the Order of the Arrow

Remember Scouts: CHEERFUL SERVICE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wisdom from Native Americans: Black Hawk

"We have men among us, like the whites, who pretend to know the right path, but will not consent to show it without pay!  I have no faith in their paths, but believe that every man must make his own path!"

--Black Hawk
Sauk

Wisdom from Native Americans: Thayendanegea

"No person among us desires any other reward for performing a brave and worthy action, but the consciousness of having served his nation."

-Joseph Brant (Thayendanegea)

Mohawk

Wisdom from Native Americans: Wovoka

"My young men shall never farm.  Men who work the soil cannot dream, and wisdom comes to us in dreams."
-Wovoka

Paiute, 1915

Wisdom from Native Americans: Teedyuscung

"When you begin a great work you can't expect to finish it all at once; therefore do you and your brothers press on, and let nothing discourage you till you have entirely finished what you have begun.

Now, Brother, as for me, I assure you I will press on, and the contrary winds may blow strong in my face, yet I will go forward and never turn back, and continue to press forward until I have finished, and I would have you do the same...

Though you may hear birds singing on this side and that side, you must not take notice of that, but hear me when I speak to you, and take it to heart, for you may always depend that what I say shall be true."

--Teedyuscung
Delaware

Wisdom from Native Americans: Cochise

"You must speak straight so that your words may go as sunlight into our hearts"
--Cochise ("Like Ironweed")
Chiricahua Chief

Wisdom from Native Americans: Wovoka

"You ask me to plow the ground.  Shall I take a knife and tear my mother's bosom?  Then when I die she will not take me to her bosom to rest.

You ask me to dig for stones!  Shall I dig under her skin for her bones?  Then when I die I cannot enter her body to be born again.

You ask me to cut grass and make hay and sell it, and be rich like white men, but how dare I cut my mother's hair?

I want my people to stay with me here.  All the dead men will come to life again.  Their spirits will come to their bodies again.  We must wait here in the homes of our fathers and be ready to meet them in the bosom of our mother."

-Wovoka
Paiute

Wisdom from Native Americans: Chief Seattle

"What is man without the beasts?  If all the beasts were gone, men would die from great lonliness of spirit, for whatever happens to the beasts also happens to man.  All things are connected.  Whatever befalls the earth befalls the children of the earth."

-Chief Seattle
Suqwamish and Duwamish

Weekly motivation!--Socrates

The way to gain a good reputation, is to endeavor to be what you desire to appear. - Socrates 

Or, as I've always said: Fake it 'til you make it!!!

See you SCOUTS!!!  Hope this helps.


-Sensei Brian Colwell
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Motivation for the week! Francis Bacon

"A wise man will make more opportunities than he finds."
Francis Bacon

That's right, Scouts!  You can't wait for the opportunities to come along.  You have to know what you want, and then go out there and get it!  Do you want to get to Eagle Scout?  Good!  Then start taking the steps NOW to get there.  Don't wait around on your Eagle Project anymore...you still have another month of Summer vacation left...get it done!

See you at the dojo!


-Sensei Brian
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Daily motivation! Carlos Castaneda

We either make ourselves happy or miserable. The amount of work is the same.
Carlos Castaneda

I love this!  Success doesn't have to be hard!  If it feels good, gets good results, and no body gets hurt in the process then that's the way to go.  Lot's of times we think if it's easy, then it's too good to be true...not so!  Believe in the good in people!

See you soon,

Sensei Brian Colwell
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Daily motivation: Abraham Maslow

"What is life for?  It is for you." --Abraham Maslow

Take life for all it's worth.  Own it!  Do what makes you happy every day.  Do something every day to get one step closer to reaching your dreams.  When we do this, our dreams and goals become not just possible, but inevitable.

See you at the top!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Daily Motivation: words from a Franciscan Benediction

These are some really nice words to think about as you fall asleep.  Words that kind of help keep you humble and determined to reach your goals and make a difference.

"May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation and war, so that you will reach out your hand to comfort them and change their pain into joy.  Any may God bless you with the foolishness to think that you can make a difference in the world, so that you will do the things which others tell you cannot be done."

--a Franciscan Benediction

See you at the didgeridoo circle!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Daily Inspiration: W.H. Auden

Always remember you're a Scout.  You have an obligation to help other people at all times.  Always work to give back to Scouting MORE than you've gotten out of it.

"We are here on earth to do good for others.  What the others are here for I do not know."

--W.H. Auden

See you at the top!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Daily inspiration: Josephine Billings

Are you a hero to a younger Scout, a young brother or sister?  You might be someone's hero and not even know it.  If you're a leader in your Troop, you probably ARE a role model to a younger Scout, especially when it comes to what you've achieved in Scouting through your advancement in rank.

"To the world you may be just one person, but to one person you may be the world."

--Josephine Billings

See you at the top!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Daily Motivation: Don't go through life, grow through life

I think I found my new daily affirmation.  This one by Jack London is pretty hot, gets you going and fired up to go slay it!  Success is here!

"I would rather be ashes than dust; I would rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze than it should be stifled by dry-rot; I would rather be in a superb meteor, every atom of me in a magnificent glow than in a sleepy and permanent planet; the proper function of man is to live, not to exist; I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong them; I shall USE my time."

--Jack London

Have fun with this!  Put it on the dash of your car so you can read it every day as you go to school or to work!

See you at the dojo!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Inspirational words for the day! Ralph Ford

"Thousands of perceptions, hunches, ideas and intuitions race through our brains every day.  Some are pure genius.  Give them the red light for at least long enough to write them down."

--Ralph Ford

I really like this quote.  I've had some great ideas that have woken me from my sleep, not written them down that moment, and then forgotten them by the time I woke up.  I sleep with a pad of paper next to me now.  I get great ideas ALL THE TIME, but also at the WORST times.  I get great ideas especially while I'm driving and can't write them down, so I always have a voice recorder with me to record quick ideas and notes so they don't get lost.  It works way better than on napkins from the glove box, writing ideas down during the red lights.

But seriously: write them down for more thought at a later moment.  It only takes one really good idea to get rich!

See you on the trail!

Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Inspirational quote of the week: Life is a ride!

Enjoy life for all its bumps and bruises!  Experience all sorts of things!  Make mistakes, learn, and grow!

"Life is truly a ride.  We're all strapped in and no one can stop it.  When the doctor slaps your behind, he's ripping your ticket and away you go.  As you make each passage from youth to adulthood to maturity, sometimes you put your arms up and scream, sometimes you just hang onto that bar in front of you.  But the ride is the thing.  I think the most you can hope for at the end of life is that your hair is messed, you're out of breath and you didn't throw up."

--unknown

I love it!  I love life, love the dojo and the students we have, love my wife and love Scouting!  Hopefully you, too, love your life and who you share it with!

See you at the beach!  (Mountains get cold at the top)

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Inspirational Quote of the Day: E.E. Cummings

I know most of us Scouts aren't the "coolest" people at school.  You might have noticed that I don't spend very much time trying to be cool at the dojo either.  I just am who I am.  You can ask Kristen: I've been this way FOREVER!  Always true to me and my ideals.  Don't try to be cool, don't try to be like everyone else.  There's something different about you that makes you really good at...something.  Something which will make you LOTS of money.  Something unique to you and your personality.  Pursue it.

"To be nobody but yourself in a world which is doing its best day and night to make you like everybody else means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight--but never stop fighting!"
--E.E. Cummings

See you at the Tooth of Time!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Inspirational Quote: Benjamin Mays

Just some wise words to digest for the day:

"The tragedy of life does not lie in not reaching your goals, the tragedy lies in not having any goals to reach.  It isn't a calamity to die with dreams unfulfilled, but it is a calamity not to dream.  It is not a disaster to be unable to capture your ideals, but it is a disaster to have no ideals to capture.  It is not a disgrace not to reach the stars, but it is a disgrace to have no stars to reach."

-Dr. Benjamin Mays




Hope you enjoyed it and have a great day!

-Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Your daily motivation! Take it!

"If you aim at nothing, you'll hit it every time."--B.J. Marshall

I know this quote sounds kind of negative at face value, but I heard a variant of this quote that was a bit more uplifting and inspirational.  Actually, I saw it on a shirt when Kristen and I were in Kuaii:

"The un-aimed arrow never misses."

I really like this thought.  Do what needs to be done, don't stress, do what you can do, but don't forget to live in the moment and to enjoy the life your living: to experience joy and happiness as well.

Chill out!  If you stress less, you'll hit your goals more!  That's the way I take this one.

Let me know what you think!

See you on Mount Baldy!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Inspiratonal Quote: Albert Einstein

Maybe the smartest thing Albert Einstein ever said:

"Your imagination is the preview to life's coming attractions."

Wow!  That's pretty powerful.  He totally understood the Law of Attraction and Napoleon Hill's "Think and Grow Rich."

I've always been interested in the life of Albert Einstein.  I mean, here was a guy who couldn't even tie his own shoes.  He was on a complete other plane of thought.  That's why he was so successful in his field: he drew the energy from the universe to fuel his desires, to turns his thoughts into things.

Where does your imagination take you?  If you've ever been through the Vigil ceremony, where did your thoughts take you then?  My Vigil showed me a clear path to the next few years following while I was looking into the fire.  If you've been there you totally know what I mean.

Anyway, see you at top like always!  Once we're at the top, though...where do we go next?

To the next mountain top!!!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja

We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts!"

San Diego, CA 92128

Your daily inspiritational quote!!! "Service"

Dedicate your life to a cause greater than yourself, and your life will become a glorious romance and adventure.
--Mack Douglas

I can't say enough how true this is.  I've dedicated myself to helping Boy Scouts.  It's a niche market in the martial arts community that I excel in, that makes me truly happy.  I always look forward to teaching the Boy Scouts that come through our doors.  By the time they're done with their 3 months of class, whether they continue with classes or not, they are changed young men.  They have better developed a fighting spirit, and desire for success.  It pushes me to grow this program even more when I see all the success.

Kristen now has her life's purpose: the Army of Angels.  It's a self defense program for women.  She has DREAMS about this work she's doing.  That's commitment.

Have you thought about your life's purpose?  How you're going to help people as an adult or how you're helping people now?  It's pretty deep stuff.  Believe me, though...helping people makes the time fly.  You always feel good afterwards.

I love helping people and teaching the martial arts.

See you at the top!  Let us know what your plans are for making an impact in YOUR community!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Inspiration: Your daily motivational quote!

You have brains in your head and feet in your shoes
You can steer yourself any direction you choose.
You're on your own and you know what you know
And you are the one who'll decide where to go.

--Dr. Suess

(I think we call this wisdom...sorry Scouts: it comes with age and experience of experiences!!!)

See you some where along the trail!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

In the Shaolin Kempo system the Tiger represents tenacity, persistence, strength.  How do you DEVELOP persistence?  How do you develop mental, physical, and spiritual strength?  Persistence can cross over to another of the Shaolin Animals as well: the Dragon.  The Dragon represents Spirit and spiritual strength.  The flexibility to roll with the punches and to win against the odds.

Napoleon Hill lists four steps to the habit of persistence.  They call for no great amount of intelligence, no particular level of education and but little time or effort.  These steps are:

1. A definite purpose backed by a burning desire for its fulfillment.
2. A definite plan, expressed in continuous action.
3. A mind closed tightly against all negative and discouraging influences
4. A friendly alliance with one or more persons who will encourage you to follow through with both plan and purpose.

(Maybe your Mom or Dad can be the one who holds you accountable.  Have it be someone you look up to, so you'll work harder to succeed. )

Hope this helps!  We all have room for growth.  Remember: when the tree stops growing it starts dying.

See you at the top!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

We have two types of Scouts at We Love Kempo.  There's the Scout who's a superstar: he advances in rank quickly, sets a good example, gets to Eagle Scout, gets straight A's in school.  He's a good kid, solid.

Then there's the Scout who's a great kid, but makes poor decisions.  Gets poor grades in school, spends too much time on the video games, forgets to turn in his homework, and can't be trusted to truly do the right thing when there are shortcuts available.  This Scout needs the dojo for discipline and structure.

This next blog is for that Scout.  It's a list from "Think and Grow Rich," by Napoleon Hill, titled "symptoms of Lack of Persistence."  I call it laziness.

These are the weaknesses that must be mastered by all who accumulate riches:

1. Failure to recognize and clearly define exactly what you want.
2. Procrastination, with or without cause (usually backed up with a formidable array of alibis and excuses).
3. Lack of interest in acquiring specialized knowledge.
4. Indecision, the habit of "passing the buck" on all occasions, instead of facing issues squarely (also backed by alibis).
5. The habit of relying upon alibis instead of creating definite plans for the solution of problems.
6. Self-satisfaction.  There is but little remedy for this affliction, and no hope for those who suffer from it.
7. Indifference, usually reflected in your readiness to compromise on all occasions, rather than meet opposition and fight it.
8. The habit of blaming others for your mistakes, and accepting unfavorable circumstances as being unavoidable.
9. Weakness of desire due to neglect in the choice of motives that impel action.
10. Willingness, even eagerness, to quit at the first sign of defeat (based upon one or more of the six basic fears).

11. Lack of organized plans, placed in writing where they may be analyzed
12. The habit of neglecting to move on ideas, or to grasp opportunity when it presents itself.
13. Wishing instead of willing
14. The habit of compromising with poverty instead of aiming at riches--a general absence of ambition to be, to do and to own.
15. Searching for all the short cuts to riches, trying to get without giving a fair equivalent, usually reflected in the habit of gambling or endeavoring to drive "sharp" bargains.
16. Fear of criticism, failure to create plans and to put them into action because of what other people will think .

I hope this helps and that YOU don't find yourself on this side of success.  Be a superhero today!

See you at the top!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
 We Love Kempo Martial Arts Studio
"For the love of the martial arts"
San Diego,CA 92128

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

Ok...here's the reality check from Napoleon Hill: "The majority of people who fail to accumulate money sufficient for their needs are, generally, easily influenced by the 'opinion' of others...if you are influenced by the opinions of others, you will have no desire of your own."  You will make it a habit to fail.

Keep to your own ideals.  Trust in yourself and in your heart.  Be wary of sharing too much of yourself with others, since even people close to you will sometimes cut down your beliefs and excitement.  Get into total go mode with your intent and actions.

In the words of Napoleon Hill: "Tell the world what you intend to do, but first show it."

In the words of We Love Kempo: "Don't talk about it, be about it."

Self check: are you on point with your goals?

See you at the top!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Studio
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

"The Major Attributes of Leadership," by Napoleon Hill:

1. Unwavering Courage: like we say at the studio: "Courage of the Tiger"

2. Self-Control: self control of character, financial self control, self control around friends and family

3. A Keen Sense of Justice: I think all Scouts are Justice Fighters in their hearts.  That's why we do our best to follow the Scout Law and Oath.

4. Definiteness of Decision: Strong spirit.  "Spirit of the Dragon."

5. Definiteness of Plans: like all our Scout Leaders have told us before, "Plan the work and work the plan."

6. The Habit of Doing More Than Paid: the spirit of the Order of the Arrow: cheerful service.  Not sometimes, all the time.

7. A Pleasing Personality: a level of humility, easy to communicate with, listens well and has a desire to help

8. Sympathy and Understanding: especially as a young Scout in the various leadership positions.  You won't be successful just because you told someone to do something.  They won't listen for long.  Compassion.

9. Mastery of Detail: Attention to detail..."Kempo is in the details."  Details make your work professional.  Details get you A's in school instead of B's or C's. 

10. Willingness to Assume Full Responsibility: the hardest part of leadership: if followers make mistakes and become incompetent, it is the leader who has failed

11. Cooperation: be a team!  Understand the abilities of each person on your team, highlight their special abilities, and everyone wins.

Are you a leader every day in every way?  It's a lot to live up to, but you're Scouts, so you can do it!

See you at the top!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Studio
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

In "Think and Grow Rich" a section titled "Imagination" talks about our desire as a thought impulse.  "The Secret" calls this the "Law of Attraction."  On the quantum mechanics side of science, the entire universe consists of only two elements-matter and energy.  "Thought impulses are forms of energy.  When you begin with the thought impulse desire to accumulate money, you are drafting into your service the same stuff that nature used in creating of this earth and every material form in the universe, including the body and brain in which the thought impulses function."

Again from "The Secret:" Thought Become Things

This concept allows for other interesting ideas as well.  For example, if your riches really only come down to attracting it, using energy in the universe, then the amount of riches you acquire should be irrelevant: a little rich or a lot rich takes the same amount of energy as far as the universe is concerned.  Time would be irrelevant as well.  If you believe it!  $10,000 could take 1 week, 1 month, or 1 year to acquire.  It's all energy!  But this also means that if you have negative thoughts every day, then negativity would also be as easily acquired.  You could manifest what you fear.

Let's continue to be aware of our thoughts and levels of stress!  Let's be positive, energetic, inspired, and intelligent!

See you at the top!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Studio-
"For the Love of the Martial Arts"
San Diego, CA 92128

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

There's a section in "Think and Grow Rich" where Napoleon Hill writes, "The accumulation of great fortunes calls for power, and power is acquired through highly organized and intelligently directed specialized knowledge, but that knowledge does not necessarily have to be in the possession of the person who accumulates the fortune."

Ask for help before it's too late.  I've written that before, but here it comes up again.  Ask for help, hire others to help you who are smarter than you, or better than you at the job to be done.  I've heard big time executives say before that they hire people smarter than they are.  That way they can delegate higher level tasks and create a more successful company.

I can totally see how this passage applies to adults.  Adults have more options here than kids do, though.  Kids, Scouts, be creative here and you tell ME how you can use this, how the above passage can be used by YOU.  How do you apply it?

Can't wait to hear what you have to say!  See you at the top!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
San Diego, CA 92128

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

"Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill: Chapter 3: Faith: Visualizing and Believing in the Attainment of Desire (Second Step to Riches)

Here Napoleon Hill talks about the importance of reviewing your goals daily.  "Making repeated affirmations to your subconscious mind is the only known method of developing the emotion of faith voluntarily.  All thoughts which have been emotionalized (given feeling) and mixed with faith begin immediately to translate themselves into their physical equivalent or counterpart."  And eliminate negative emotions that say you can't or won't have what you desire most.

"Riches begin in the form of thought.  The amount is limited only by the person in whose mind the thought is put into motion.  FAITH removes limitation."

I had a dream recently where I was wearing my Shaolin Brand shoes, my karate shoes, when I looked down and saw that my shoes were really torn up, worn out.  They looked almost like sandals they were so torn up.  I looked up the imagery online and found that the torn up shoes represented my need to "take a leap of faith."

These goals that you've set for yourself...how much are you believing in them right now, in yourself right now?  We need to believe with everything we have to reach those goals that seem really huge.  Let's reaffirm our goals, do what needs to be done, and believe that we'll have our success on the other end.

See you at the finish line!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Dojo
San Diego, CA 92128

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

Are you reading this book yet?  "Think and Grow Rich" is just the first of many more books I plan to review with the Scouts.  I figure if we can get these principles and thoughts to the kids sooner, then maybe they'll be in a more creative, open mind set to receive and use the messages.  It's harder for adults, I think, because we already have more stresses and experiences that have hardened us to thinking that we DESERVE the success.

In the section on "Desire" Napoleon Hill discusses the difference between wishing for a thing and being ready to receive it.  "No one is ready for a thing until he believes he can acquire it.  The state of mind must be belief, not mere hope or wish.  Open-mindedness is essential for belief.  Closed minds do not inspire faith, courage or belief."

Many times I've set goals for myself and failed.  It doesn't feel good.  But many of those times I actually set myself up for failure.  I didn't really BELIEVE I would reach the goal.  Why?  Because they were outrageous goals, that's why.  For a goal to be true, to be believable, it has to be reachable.  Doable for you.  Think large, think big, but not outrageous.  It has to be believable for YOU.

Review your goals now: are they believable?  Are they real?  If not, let's bag them or modify them.

See you at the top!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Studio
San Diego, CA 92128

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

Here is the moment of truth, Scouts...now you have to actually do some work. 

"Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill reveals a method by which DESIRE FOR RICHES can be transformed into financial equivalent.  There are six steps, to which I have also posted my answers to better guide you along your path.  Do this!!!  It really is fun.

1. "Fix in your mind the exact amount of money you desire." My answer: $10,000.00
2. "Determine exactly what you intend to give in return for the money you desire."  My answer: In return for $10,000 I will give up weekends, evenings, and days off to introduce more potential students to the We Love Kempo Martial Arts studio.
3. "Establish a definite date when you intend to possess the money you desire."  My answer: I will have $10,000 by May 1st.
4. "Create a definite plan for carrying out your desire, and begin at once, whether you are ready or not, to put this plan into action."  My answer: DONE!!!  That's why I'm writing this BSA Blog!!!  I have been way more active on the We Love Kemp forum, and plan on posting more frequently to the BSA Blog.  Also, we have classes scheduled in such a way that free classes for students are ending each week over the next month, so I feel like we have the real probability to enroll 5 students this week, and 2-3 each week for the next one to two months.  Yes! 
5. "Write out a clear, concise statement of the amount of money you intend to acquire.  Name the time limit for its acquisition.  State what you intend to give in return for the money, and describe clearly the plan through which you intend to accumulate it."  My answer:  I will have $10,000 by May 1st.  In return for this financial success I will give up weekends, weeknights, and days off so that I can share the martial arts with MORE potential students.  I will flier more aggressively, create a stronger internet presence for our studio, and enroll more students this month than this entire year!
6. "Read your written statement aloud, twice daily, once just before retiring at night, and once after rising in the morning.  As you read, see and feel and believe yourself already in possession of the money."  My answer:  Try posting it on the mirror of your bathroom!  You'll probably see it more than twice in a day!

Let's do it Scouts!  Let me know what YOU plan to do for your success!  Remember: there's always a price...but it's worth it.  Getting to Eagle Scout isn't easy either...

See you at the top!

Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout Ninja
We Love Kempo Martial Arts Studio
San Diego, CA 92128

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

We've talked about a "burning desire" in past blogs.  This is the first step to riches according to Napoleon Hill in "Think and Grow Rich."

One time I was at a motivational seminar and a presenter dunked a guys head in a bucket of water...and wouldn't let him come up for air...not until the guy REALLY struggled, and pushed up hard to get his head out of the water...to get air.  Then the speaker said, "When you want success as much as you want air to breath, that's when you'll be successful."

Might sound kind of corny, but I totally got it.  That's why I still remember it.  Here's another analogy of how BURNING your desire should be...not a wish, but a desire:

"A long while ago, a great warrior had to make a decision which ensured his success on the battlefield.  He was about to send his armies against a powerful foe, whose men outnumbered his own.  He loaded his soldiers into boats, sailed to the enemy's country, unloaded his soldiers and equipment, then gave the order to burn the ships that had carried them.  Addressing his men before the first battle, he said, 'You see the boats going up in smoke.  That means that we cannot leave these shores unless we win!  We now have no choice--we win or we perish!' They won.  Every person who wins in any undertaking must be willing to burn his ships and cut all sources of retreat.  Only by so doing can one be sure of maintaining that state of mind known as a burning desire to win, essential to success."

What is you burning desire?

See you at the top!

-Sensei Brian Colwell
Martial Arts Superhero &
3rd Generation Eagle Scout
13240 Evening Creek Drive #314
San Diego, CA 92128
www.welovekempo.com

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

I first heard of the principles in "Think and Grow Rich" at a meeting where we watched "The Secret."

"Thoughts become things."

"...there is a universal power which adapts itself to the nature of the thoughts we hold in our minds; and influences us, in natural ways, to transmute our thoughts into their physical equivalent."

Our thoughts are magnets.

What's filling your mind every day?  If it's stress from school, work, or home that you're thinking about, is it helping?  Probably not.  Let's find a way to ground ourselves against stress.  Let's work on our thoughts being on abundance instead.  On riches, or good grades, or happiness.  Let's do this every day from now on...forever!

Every year we should reexamine "Think and Grow Rich" so we're accountable to our thoughts, staying always on thoughts of riches and abundance.

In what ways are you already rich?  (Attitude of Gratitude)

See you at the dojo!  Tournament is right around the corner!

-Sensei Brian Colwell

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

The primary theme in "Think and Grow Rich" is "The Power of Thought."  How to acquire a state of mind that will attract riches.  It doesn't need to be hard to get rich, but it takes belief.  Success comes to those who BECOME success conscious. 

We are encouraged to receive this suggestion: "When riches begin to come, they come so quickly, in such great abundance, that one wonders where they have been hiding all those lean years."

If you never read the book, never read any more blogs I post about this book, then please at least receive the above.  Like I wrote earlier, I read the book one year ago.  I thought last year as I pursued the principles in the book that I was failing, since I wasn't making all the money I should have......you know what?  I DID make lots of money last year.  I made it for the the dojo I was working for...I just didn't get to keep it.  It went upstairs, into the hands of big corporate types.

I'm energized as I read this book again.  I'm ready to make lots more money!  I did it before, and I'm DOING it again!

Should it be any easier for adults than kids to make lots of money?  Scouts...read this book!  Let's see what you can do, what you can visualize and make come true. 

Maybe you get a huge scholarship, a sponsorship, or create some new cell phone app...it's your future!

See you on the trail!

Sensei Brian

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

To continue our discussion of "Think and Grow Rich," by Napoleon Hill:

There are several sections in this book I found I could connect with.  Also in the beginning of the book:

"...greatest success came just one step beyond the point at which defeat had overtaken them.  Failure is a trickster with a keen sense of irony and cunning.  It takes great delight in tripping one up when success is almost withing reach."

Have you ever tried to open up a jar, and you pushed and pulled until your hands hurt, but couldn't get it open?  Then you passed it to someone else and they barely do anything, opening it with no effort?  Same story.

That can be looked at as a negative...like you failed...but what if you "ask for help before it's too late?"  This is team work, the buddy system.  That's way more positive.  People tend to NOT ask for help, preferring to quit or fail instead.  The older I get the more I ask for help...I can't do everything...I'm not good at everything.  You have to be humble to ask for help.  You have to share your problems with people in order for them to help.  That takes letting them into your life, which can also be hard sometimes.  It opens you up to getting hurt by people around you.  But there are people around you who WANT to help.  Let them help you. 

Together we are greater than the sum of our parts.  Together we can make a difference. 

See you at the top, or at the bottom, or somewhere in the middle...just ask!

-Sensei Brian

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

Exactly one year ago I read the book "Think and Grow Rich," by Napoleon Hill.  I just picked it up again and started looking over the copeous notes I took while reading.  This book truly inspired me and taught me some valuable lessons as well.  Over the next few weeks I'll be discussing excerpts from this famous book.

The first section of this book talks about the power of thought.
 
-"when a man really desires a thing so deeply that he is willing to stake his entire future on a single turn of the wheel in order to get it, he is sure to win."

What is YOUR single, all consuming obsession...your "definite major purpose?"  Your persistance with a SINGLE desire will "mow down all opposition" and bring you to what you're seeking.

When I think about this statement it REALLY is true...there are few things I've desired with a burning passion, truly desired in my heart and soul.  A few items on that list include: reaching Eagle Scout, receiving the Vigil Honor in Order of the Arrow, getting straight A's my Junior year of high school (with all honors classes) just to prove that I could, reaching Black Belt in 2 years or less, and growing my first dojo to 100 students in 1 year or less.

Everything I've focused on like a laser beam I've been able to reach.  So I ask you again: What is YOUR single, all consuming obsession?  If you don't care enough about your goal, you won't reach it.

How much do you care about reaching Eagle Scout?

See you at the top!

-Sensei Brian

Eagle Scout Project Counselors in Poway

In an attempt to help you Life Scouts reach Eagle Scout, I've located a listing of the Eagle Project Counselor's in the area.  Stop delaying and do it!!!

Here is the link to the list of counselors:

http://www.sdicbsa.org/advancement/eagle/counselors.asp

Next, I found a page on the City of Poway's website that discusses guidelines for Eagle Projects specific to Poway.  Of particular interest is the section discussing the appropriate SIZE of the Eagle Project.  Remember what I've said before: it's not the size that matters, but instead the planning that goes into the project.

Excerpt from that page:
Size
How big a project is required? There are no specific requirements, as long as the project is helpful to a religious institution, school, or community. The amount of time spent by you in planning your project and the actual working time spent in carrying out the project should be as much as is necessary for you to demonstrate your leadership of others.

Taken directly from the Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook or see the The National Eagle Scout Association, Boy Scouts of America website.

Contact Information:
Bob Hahn, Parks Maintenance Supervisor Public Works Department 14467 Lake Poway Road Poway, CA 92064 (858) 668-4721	Boy Scouts of America Pacific-Desert Council (858) 298-6121

Follow the link at:

http://poway.org/Index.aspx?page=321

Hope this helps and see you at the top!

Sincerely,


Sensei Brian

Boy Scouts and Your Legacy

What will be your legacy?  Do you already have a family tradition?  Why does it matter?

I think it's cool to have a family tradition...I think most people do.  I'm taking a kung-fu class soon with a 3rd generation Grand Master of Tiger Claw Kung Fu.  Kung-fu has been in his family for 100 years!  It means that he has this in his blood, spirit, mind...in every way in every day.  That's why I'm such a huge Boy Scout advocate...I'm a third generation Eagle Scout.  My grandpa was a lone Scout...he lived on a farm and STILL earned his Eagle Scout...he had more merit badges than anyone else in the family: 2 complete sashes.  That is some serious dedication.  My father followed, but got further into the Order of the Arrow then my grandpa, earing the Vigil Honor and Founders Award.  How could I beat that?  And it's not a negative feeling...just that feeling that I needed to do something great...to continue the family tradition and make a meaningful impact on the family line.  My brother and I both have received our Eagle Scout, Vigil Honor, and Founders Award. 

To make my impact I started a special Merit Badge Program in the hopes of helping Scouts reach Eagle Scout.  To help other Scouts START their own family traditions.  To help others make SCOUTING the best part of their lives. 

I'm thinking about this right now because I'm asking myself, "What will my Son do?"  I don't have kids yet, but it's fun to think about a 4th generation of greatness. 

So now I ask YOU:  what is your family tradition of greatness?  Are you all Stanford Graduates?  Do you all have Black Belts in Kempo?  Do you all speak 3 languages?  But more importantly, what can you do to contribute and expand this Family Dream?

See you at the top!

-Brian D Colwell

Scouting and Leadership Skills

Don Cunningham, 2001 National OA Chief, wrote:

http://www.oa-bsa.org/resources/thoughts/thoughts_c_leadership.htm

"...leadership has been studied for years, dating back to the writings of Attila the Hun. Philosophers, business managers, psychologists, and sociologists alike have attempted to come up with the perfect definition of the vague term "leadership." I feel that no group or professional has come as close as we, the members of the Order of the Arrow, in defining this quality that we strive to instill in our members. Simply put, there is no one definition for a leader. The process of influencing others is subject to interpretation and differs with culture, age, society, etc. However, one attribute applies to all leadership: setting the example. In the Order of the Arrow, we call this "walking like you talk." Our members put it to practice in their daily lives and our leaders make it a reality in units, lodges, and communities across the nation."

What made the great leaders of men so great?  Attila, Ghengis Khan, Hannibal, Caesar, Alexander the Great to name a few.  There were willing to do anything they asked those that followed them to do.  They didn't say "do!"  They DID with their men.  They were loved and respected, and probably a bit feared as well.  They were great fighters.  They were GREAT SALES PEOPLE!  They had the ability to motivate people to greatness, to push themselves to make their leaders proud. 

Are you a great leader?

See you at the top!

-Brian

Getting in touch with nature through Scouting

Scott Hunter, 2001 National OA Vice Chief, wrote:

http://www.oa-bsa.org/resources/thoughts/thoughts_vc_adventure.htm

"...I recall sitting in the wilderness and looking deep within my soul. As a young man I did a great deal of soul searching to find purpose and direction in my life. In nature I found my place, and I found my answers. Looking out over the landscapes, high mountain peaks, and tranquil waters, nature always allowed me to find that inner voice that became so important in shaping the person I am today."


There are 4 moments I'll never forget. Camping moments that shaped my life and attitudes.

1. Philmont Scout Ranch: at the top of Mount Baldy. I realized just how small I really was...but how could I fill the space of the world with my spirit and life?

2. My Vigil. Don't talk about, be about it. I won't talk about it here, but I saw 2 paths before me that night. Both just were, neither right or wrong...I had a vision of my future. I chose the correct path for me, because my girlfriend of 2 weeks at that time became my wife.

3. Sleeping out under the stars...no lights anywhere...just a huge sky full stars and planets. It was truly amazing. I'm not inspired by sun rises...but that night I'll never forget just how close the stars seemed. I thought I could touch them...and then that night a mountain lion walked up to me...smelled me...and walked away...........I seriously thought I was going to be eaten.......

4. Camping in the Ventura Wilderness. I found a nice cozy spot under some trees to set up a small tent...the grass had even been matted down for me...and then I realized it was because a VERY LARGE animal had been sleeping there the night before...


See you at the top!

How do you give back?

Don Cunningham, 2001 National OA Chief, wrote this letter regarding the vision of unity and common bond that Order of the Arrow represents:

"...when Dr. Goodman founded our great and honored Order, he glimpsed a vision. This vision was his dream of unity and a common bond that drew human beings together under the same purpose. The product of this dream is the reality of the Order of the Arrow today. It is an opportunity to aim for something higher. It gives Scouts and Scouters alike the chance to go beyond the routines of their units to gain special leadership experience and give back to those who elected them. The Order is an endless cycle and its possibilities are infinite. The root of it all lies with the brotherhood and fellowship that bring members together." Click here for the whole letter

I specifically want to point out the line where Don says, "give back to those who elected them." If you're an Arrowman right now, how are you giving back to the Scouts in your troop? What can you do today to change the way the OA is viewed in your troop, so that ALL KIDS want to join and become active? It's the spirit that the OA is given that makes a difference here. Some kids I talk to are totally anti-Order of the Arrow, and I just don't get it. It's a group of ELITE Scouts, who give back the best, who serve the most, who follow the Oath and Law the best, who are the BEST role-models.


I give back through teaching merit badges at my martial arts studio. I teach Sports, Athletics, and Personal Fitness Merit Badges, and GIVE AWAY 3 months of FREE classes. I give and give and give, and only except in return that the kids I help will reach Eagle Scout and take their own oath to give back to Scouting more than they received.


Are YOU ready to make that commitment?

If you are, then I'll see YOU at the TOP!


Sensei Brian

Exploring Nature Through Scouting

"Thoughts on the Nature of Camping," a letter written by 2002 National OA Chief Clay Capp, can be found at: http://www.oa-bsa.org/resources/thoughts/thoughts_02c_camping.htm In an excerpt from the letter, Capp wrote:

"...the founders of both the Scouting Movement and the Order of the Arrow valued camping as a way to teach Scouting skills. But each Scout who has truly experienced the outdoors while camping will value camping for its own sake. True, it is in the outdoors that many Scouts learn how to tie their knots and their bandages, and first use a compass. But it is also true that the outdoors is where a Scout's self-reliance is fostered."

This is a great letter.  I have wondered myself where my self-reliance comes from.  I'm sure that my Dad being away a lot because of the military had something to do with that.  But I filled my time with camping, hiking, outdoor skills.  I camped every weekend for a year straight during my Sophomore year of high school and then staffed Summer Camp that Summer.  I really DID develop a sense of self in the outdoors.  I gained confidence in my ability to survive in the wilderness and thus gained confidence in my ability to help MYSELF. 

Look for the answers yourself first.  Explore.  Make mistakes.  But through this process I think I learned to rely on myself too much.  I forgot that it's ok to ask for help.  Never forget that many people have been through what you're going through RIGHT NOW.  Use their wisdom.  They want to help...but you need to ask first. Whether you're a kid having relationship problems or an adult having money problems, you must always remember to "ASK for help BEFORE it's TOO LATE!"

See you at the top,
Sensei Brian

The True Meaning of Brotherhood

Rich Moore, 2003 National Vice Chief for the Order of the Arrow, shares his thoughts on brotherhood. Click here for the whole letter:

"...we commonly use this word "brother" in our Order, but what does it mean? Why is it that the chief addresses us as brothers? Why is it that we feel the way we do, about these people that are not even related to us? I suppose it all started when we stepped forward and chose to undertake that Ordeal. That Ordeal weekend, we spent a great amount of time cheerfully serving our camps and communities, cheerfully serving each other. As the day progressed, we started to think differently about one another, we began to feel true brotherhood. That night we were bound together in this brotherhood, and then we heard, at the end of our Ordeal ceremony, an exclamation from our chief: "My Brothers!!! I congratulate you..." Is this what makes us brothers? "


When my wife and I moved to San Diego we had no family and no friends here. We were on our own. And we felt it, too. Starting over. But what makes your brother your brother? Is your brother your brother just because you share the same parents? The article above says it well: your friends become your family through the spirit. We're attached to each other through our spirits and attitudes, through our experiences together. The bond of brotherhood is enhanced when you experience hardships together, work through challenges together. This is where the sum of your abilities becomes greater than the individual parts.

Five years after moving to San Diego my wife and I are martial arts instructors. We still technically do not have any family here. But what we DO have are brothers and sisters, cousins, and mothers through the students we work with. We have closer relationships with some of our students than with our TRUE brothers and sisters. The Order of the Arrow allows you to have the same experience. The Ordeal will tie you to each other forever, so long as you maintain the relationship. The Brotherhood will confirm your commitment to the ideals of the Order of the Arrow. Your Vigil, the most important, is about self-discovery and will anchor your spirit to your true path. The bond you will have with your Vigil Brothers will be beyond words...it really shouldn't even be discussed with another person...it's the spirit of the thing that will tie you together. The depth of understanding yourself.

See you at the top!

Sensei Brian

How's Your Attitude Eagle Scout?

Clay Capp and Riley Berg, the 2002 National Chief and National Vice Chief, respectfully, composed a great letter on the role of cheerful service in our lives. Click here for the entire letter:

"...step back for a moment and think about the role cheerfulness can play in our lives. It, as one of the three tenets of our Order, does not diminish the role of the other two, but it is being addressed here because the other two are much more frequently treated in our lodge activities. Lodges organize themselves to do service to their councils, and the OA sends crews each summer to Philmont and Northern Tier to give service to our National High Adventure Bases and to national camping. There are events that stress brotherhood, like a lodge fellowship, and NOAC. But cheerfulness is an attitude that pervades all those things. Service can be done without a smile, and true brothers will stand by you no matter the mood – but these things, all things, are so much more fulfilling when you do them cheerfully.


Not only does a positive attitude lift your spirits and the task at hand, but it lifts up those around you also. Think about how many times a simple smile, a pat on the back, or a kind word has made you feel better about what you’re doing. The same can easily be done for others; it just takes the willingness to try – to go about the work of our Order and life, with the mindset that those who have the greatest power to motivate, to help others to a level they may not have imagined, do it with kind words, and genuine smiles. The amount of service possible and the strength of brotherhood are multiplied when cheerfulness is present as well.



Cheerfulness does not mean that everyone is constantly in a good mood. What it signifies is the continual commitment to life, the constant vigilance with which cheerful people face the world and problems in a way that transcends simple optimism. It is not merely an external quality; it is the deep and abiding quality of working toward the good things in life, of maintaining a positive spirit “even in the midst of irksome tasks and weighty responsibilities,” of not letting surmountable barriers prevent us from our fullest potential of brotherhood and service."


I especially love the last paragraph. Cheerfulness really is a commitment. You control your response to stress and drama. Your attitude, spirit, cheerfulness will determine your result. What happens when two tigers fight? One leaves injured and the other dies. Cheerfulness allows us to move softly when things are hard, or hard when things are soft and unclear. When stress hits you hard move like a snake. Move around the problem and look at it from a different angle. The first component of rank advancement, and of your advancement in any area of life, is ATTITUDE!

See you at the top!

Sensei Brian

How to Measure Your Success

In a letter titled, "Thoughts on Servant Leaders and the Great Outdoors," 2004 National Vice Chief David Dowty wrote:

"...leaders are meant to be authors of great ideas and wild dreams, taking a simple problem and applying a unique form of creativity to imagine the possibilities. As the dream takes shape, a leader must also determine and define for themselves and for their group how success will be measured. If we only defined success as achieved after we had reached and perfected our dreams, no one would ever feel that deep sense of accomplishment. Never knowing the taste of victory can demoralize and dishearten those you serve. Within little goals and aspirations can a group find the will and energy to continue serving their ultimate purpose; it is through those "baby steps" that Mother Nature perfected the natural world and that we will come closer to reaching our own summits."

At a young age this Scout realized that many of us set massive goals, fail, and then fall into a depression that keep us from setting further goals, from trying to be the best we can in all ways.  I learned through managing a martial arts studio that setting huge goals is a way to set yourself up for failure.  Set REALISTIC goals, that require work, but are achievable.  I set the goal to reach 100 students after my first full year of studio management.  I knew this was possible based on my past successes.  I reached that goal by December of that year, a full month early.  I set smaller goals along the way, of course, so that I could celebrate my smaller successes and feel good about my work.  Do you set rewards for reaching your goals?  You need an incentive to be successful.  "When I get an A in Math, I get a Nintendo DS."  Or, "when I reach 100 students, I will take a vacation to Hawaii."  Once you reach that goal you might not even want the prize!  But then it's YOUR choice, because YOU earned it through your hard work, planning, and motivation.

Do yourself a favor and write down your 10 goals for the year.  They can cover any area of your life, from family relationships, school, to Scouting.  Write a time frame for when you want it done (be realistic), and also (most importantly) have a PRIZE!  Review your goals daily, tell others about them, and take consistent action!

See you at the top!

-Brian Colwell

Commitment to Order of the Arrow

Seth Mollitt, 2005 National Vice Chief of the Order of the Arrow, wrote the following in a letter titled "Thoughts on Commitment to the Order of the Arrow". Click here for the full letter.

"...over time, however, our dedication can begin to fade. As we grow older and become busier with school and work, the things that at one time seemed so important to us begin to get pushed to the background by new opportunities and activities. As commitments pile up, it becomes easier and easier to skip the occasional lodge weekend; it becomes easier and easier to detach ourselves from the organization to which we once felt so connected. 
 

When I was twelve, I almost quit the Scouting program. School and friends distracted me, and the things that had once seemed so important began to fade. Luckily, I did not quit. I found a way to rekindle my dedication to the Order of the Arrow, and so can anyone else who may find his enthusiasm waning. Every year we are provided with innumerable opportunities to renew our commitment to the Order and to servant leadership through programs like OA Trail Crew, OA Wilderness Voyage, OA Ocean Adventure, NOAC, National Leadership Seminars, and Scoutreach Mentoring. I challenge all of you to take advantage of these opportunities."

Service to others IS a great way to bring energy back into your life.  I almost quit Scouting at one point myself.  But I didn't: and I went on to earn Eagle Scout, Vigil, and the Founder's Award.  I almost quit teaching the martial arts on 3 separate occasions as well.  Twice before I had my own studio and once when I left United Studios.  I'm glad I never quit, though.  I'm successful, happy, and surrounded by people I love and who love me back.  The tenacity of the Tiger is what we all need to push through the fog and dirt and muck, to succeed.  Most people quit JUST before they break through, just before they reach their goals.  That's because for any goal worth reaching there is a PRICE to pay.  Maybe you have to sacrifice your weekends working on your Eagle Project.  Maybe you can't hang with your buddies and skateboard for 3 hours during the week because you need to sacrifice that to have more study time.  Making the right decision is rarely easy in this case.  Peer pressure can push us all over the place.

Begin with the end in mind.  Then DO NOT allow yourself any other result but success.  If you take consistent action towards the end result, the end will be there before you know it!
For more help on setting and achieving YOUR goals shoot me an email at www.welovekempo@gmail.com.

See you at the top!
-Brian Colwell