Garnavillo
August 1, 2015
As I prepared for my next promotional test, I had alot on my mind in regards to Tae Kwon Do and everyday life. I thought about what I could do to be more involved with Tae Kwon Do and how it can help others.I started in American Freestyle Karate over 25 years ago and ever since I stepped into a dojang, Martial Arts has changed my life. I have more confidence in everything I set out to do. I started out in Law Enforcement 14 years ago and since then I have been promoted to Chief of Police for the two communities I serve. Not only am I the Chief of Police I am also a certified D.A.R.E. Officer, Domestic Violence Instructor, Certified Defensive Tactics Instructor, and have received several other training certificates and awards. With confidence you can accomplish anything. I felt growing up I did not have a good support system in everything I set out to do, but I did have confidence in myself, and I would not be where I am today without confidence. That’s why I feel so strongly about Tae Kwon Do. Tae Kwon Do has changed my life forever.
So how can Tae Kwon Do help others? Recently I attended our yearly D.A.R.E. conference and I walked away feeling numb inside. This conference opened my eyes and made me think about how we can educate and make a difference in people’s lives. Some of the presenters talked about recent school shootings, child abductions, and human trafficking. I always knew these tragic events happen across the United Sates but in all reality these tragedies are happening in the communities across Iowa. I kept asking myself what I could do to make a difference. In my Law Enforcement career, I have investigated and responded to every type of call you can think of and out of these investigations they have lead to people being charged for their crimes and serving jail time. If someone breaks the law you charge them and possibly take them to jail. But there is more to it than that. I feel we need to educate more. That’s how I feel I can make a difference is by educating people of the dangers out there that many people will have to face in their lifetime. I feel I am in a unique situation where I can help and educate people. Not only in Law Enforcement but also through Tae Kwon Do. So that’s why feel strongly about Tae Kwon Do. I feel Tae Kwon Do also helps educate people on self-defense and gives them confidence. When I teach students in D.A.R.E. about the dangers of drugs and violence I know I can’t save every student from making bad choices but I am confident they have the tools to resist these pressures. If I can help one student who might be on the wrong path I know I have done my job. I feel the same way about Tae kwon Do. If I can get one student into the dojang who might be on the wrong path and they can see the benefits of Tae kwon Do, then I have also done my job.
That’s why I feel it is important to educate not only our youth but everyone around us. I have been given a great opportunity, now it’s time to give back.
