Student Speech
Students, I am honored and excited about the opportunity to speak to you this great day. Let's review our indoctrination speech last year which discussed the importance of expressing joy, humility. and gratitude every day and in every way. I also hope you recall the significance of developing your eagerness to be the best Martial Artist. In order to be the best Martial Artist, you must demonstrate extraordinary leadership abilities and be able to lead others by example setting to achieve your Black Belt goals.
As I look into this audience of students, I can see that there are four kinds of students. Student number one is the kind of student who constantly has to be told what to do. He is also behind in school and argues with his parents. This is a self-discipline problem. Student number two is a little better. For example, when you repeatedly ask him to clean his room, do his homework, he eventually gets it done. Student number three has a much better attitude. When his teachers and parents ask him to do something, he readily jumps to it and does an above average job. On the other hand, student number four is a highly motivated individual who has a great attitude. He also has the talent and searches for ways to inspire his friends, associates, and faculty members to achieve Black Belt greatness. He never has to be told his responsibilities more than once. This student demonstrates respect for parents, brothers or sisters. friends and teachers, all with the utmost courtesy, and never judges anyone. Student number four excels and is preparing for an exciting future. Would all the four's raise their hands? Would the number one's please raise their hands? If you are a number two, what would it take for you to be a number three? And number three's, why not become a number four? If not now, when? And if not you, who will lead by example in the spirit of Black Belt Excellence?
Each and every one of you has a terrific opportunity for constant and never ending personal progress in your Black Belt quest. Remember inch by inch it's a cinch to reach your Black Belt dream. Identify your Black Belt dream and develop that into worthwhile goals. Breakdown those goals into action steps to achieve your goals by developing a daily routine. Most of all, remember the words of the guru who said, "I took the train, I sailed the ship, rode the bus, and climbed the mountain by mule." The wise guru emphasized the importance of always demonstrating the quality of joy, humility and gratitude. Repeat after me, "What's our Quest? To be our best!"
Will the student examinees please stand to be recognized!
S.T.O.R.M. "Special Team of Role Models" Special thanks to Buzz Durkin and Buzz Durkin's Uechi Karate School.
Congratulations on your next important step toward Black Belt! Becoming an upper belt represents your dedication and commitment to excellence. In the process of your training you have had to overcome some obstacles along the way while remaining focused on your Martial Arts goals. The way to improve is to help others improve. As an upper belt you can help others in their commitment to mental, physical, and emotional excellence.
This "Special Team of Role Models" is a highly energized team of advanced students dedicated to improving themselves and others through teaching under the supervision of the Head Instructor. The primary functions of S.T.O.R.M. members are to maintain high standards of excellence, motivation, and energy among all students.
Specifically,
there are seven areas that emphasize the roles of S.T.O.R.M. members:
1) CANEI
Constant and Never Ending Improvement Maintain motivation and continue to set new goals.
2) Look Sharp, Be Sharp, Act Sharp
* Be energetic - through verbal responses or provide high energy workouts.
3) While STORMING
Be proactive - plan ahead and solve problems in an efficient manner, be a person on a quest for Black Belt Excellence.
4) Other Missions
Your success and the success of others may depend on being a great helper assisting in demonstrations, and testing.
5) Continue to be a Goal Setter
Help other students realize the value and benefits you have received from sticking to your goals in the Martial Arts. Students will emulate your mental and physical example. Therefore, set high goals.
6) Use Hands-On Training in Class
A pat on the back and a smile with eye contact has a very big impact on everyone. Most importantly, let students know with praise that they are doing something right.
7) Be a Sponge
Learn all that you can about being a positive influence and a motivator.
