True Gratitude

Gratitude, it seems to be the theme around me for the past couple of weeks.  Everything from the conversations I’ve had, to the messages at church, to the reminders in kung fu and even the commercials on TV, they all seem to be reminding me that I have a never ending list of things in my life to be grateful for.  Like many, I have had a tough year in a more than a few respects.  I am ashamed to say that I have had more than a few moments struggling with finding anything to be grateful for.  I have got so caught up in and focused on what was going wrong that I missed what was going right.  I think I have “painted a broad brush of thanksgiving that leaves me deeply thankful for very few things in my life.”  This year one of my goals was to keep up with a gratitude journal.  I started off fairly strong but as the year continued and more challenging things came up in life I found myself struggling to find anything to write.  This is absolutely absurd!  My life is so full of wonderful people, things and experiences, how could I not find even a simple little sentence or even one word of something I have to be grateful for? 

This past week, after more than a little reflection, I have discovered that I have been missing true gratitude because I have been looking too broad.  I haven’t been looking at the small specific details, the meaningful words and moments that build true gratitude.  I have lazily and thoughtlessly named off words that encompasses so much more if I break it down and truly focus on the pieces. A couple of nights ago I went out for a walk (very bundled up and yes it was cold).  I walked very slowly; anyone who knows me or has ever walked with me will understand that this is a huge challenge for me.  Slowing down and truly focusing on the moment I felt the cold biting air on what skin was exposed making me aware I’m alive.  Looking up I could see thousands of stars lighting up the dark sky.  I could see and feel the snowflakes falling on my face.  I could hear true peace and quiet with only the crunching of snow under my boots.  I could smell the wood burning from fireplaces in the neighborhood. Without making the conscious decision to slow down and truly look at and pick apart the pieces of the night, I would have missed one of the best night walks ever.

Meet each day with a grateful heart.  Look beyond the big picture and see and appreciate the small details and pieces that make up all we have to be grateful for.

Alana Regier

http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca

Tiger Challenge Fears

With the Tiger Challenge approaching fast I catch myself remembering the first tournament I actually participated in.  I am embarrassed to say it took me till blue belt to build up the courage to submit the entry form and more than a few sleepless nights after that.  I wish I could say I had finally built up the confidence and guts on my own; however that is not totally the truth.  It was actually my oldest son who lit the fire.  After many years participating himself, he told me right out that I wasn’t signing up why should he?  What is a mother to do?  So that was it, we signed up for a team form and before I knew it I was in 3 additional divisions and my mind was changed as to where I wanted to go in my training.

This single action was the turning point for my Kung Fu.  I can say with confidence, out loud and with true belief that there is extreme value in stepping up and taking advantage of opportunities like the Tiger Challenge.  These are the decisions that can turn the direction of or push you to achieve goals that otherwise would never materialize. I can’t say that it is now easy to get up and compete, actually in some ways it seems harder.  So with only 5 sleeps away I am feeling disappointed that I may not be able to participate this year for the simple fact that I realize the value in it.  I will be there all day cheering you all on wishing I was on the mats with you.  I encourage everyone to jump on this opportunity and don’t wait till blue belt.  There is so much to learn in a safe and fun environment.

Alana Regier

http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca

 

Right vs Wrong

From the day they were born we have taught our kids right from wrong.  We have done our best to instill in them kindness, compassion, forgiveness, empathy, respect and love for others.  We have tried to lead by example but have fallen short on many occasions, however, these are the times we have tried to use as teachable moments and I hope all walked away having learnt valuable lessons.

We have had some major changes for schooling this year. Because of lack of room, the program Kayden is in was moved to another school. With the blending of different groups, challenges have arisen.  With this move, Kayden has found himself surrounded with new students, some who have a different view as to what is right and what is wrong.  In grade 9 the hormones are raging, boundaries are being tested and kids are trying to find out just where they fit. This is a time where many teenagers have been known to behave in less than desirable ways.  So as I hear and see the drama unfold I have caught myself this week telling Kayden to “just let it go” to some of the small things that fall in the undesirable category.  What I have forgotten is that these “small things” are the same things that he was taught as a little guy to be unacceptable.  Have I just erased the value in all we’ve taught that has helped build him into the wonderful young man is becoming?  Is there a fine line between tolerance and being a coward in not standing up for what you believe is right?  What behaviors fall into the category of “little things”?  Is accepting and turning our eyes to the “little things” just allowing the little things to become big things?  The answers to these questions are tough to find and vary depending on your perspective.  To say “ya I know it’s not right, but that is reality and you are just going to have to accept somethings sometimes” sucks as an answer. I will never be able to give an answer for every scenario my children will run into, and although they will not be able to rid the world COMPLETELY of injustice and evil, how they react does matter and will alter the outcome one way or the other. It is not always the yelling voice saying “you shouldn’t do this” that will make a positive difference, although it may get you a black eye.  Sometimes it’s the silent voice and the quiet actions that speak louder and have the biggest impact.  Just because we don’t speak up does not necessarily mean we accept and condone the words people say or the way they behave, sometimes it’s just not the time or the battle. It’s not necessarily a matter of being weak or scared when choosing silence but rather using our better judgement from what we have been taught and what we have learnt from experience that helps us differentiate when to speak up and when to shut up. If speaking up holds no positive purpose, maybe there is another way!

Alana Regier

http:/alanaregier.blogspot.ca

 

End of the Season

I have now just finished my season/contract with the County of Parkland, Agriculture Division.  Since May I have been fortunate to be part of a team who truly does believe in making both positive examples and differences in our community and beyond.  It has been a while since I’ve had the opportunity to work with a group of people who are health conscious (not too many donuts around this office) as well as environmentally conscious.  To end my season I was privileged to be a part of the City Slickers program offered through the Multicultural Center in Stony Plain.  This is a program that brings between 1200-1500 grades 4&5 students out to the farm.  The program is designed to teach students where their food comes from, to hear from farmers themselves as to how they take care of their land, animals and the environment in order to produce safe food and to listen to different groups and businesses involved in the processes of growing our food while at the same time being aware of the importance of conserving our environment.  

Our display and presentation was based on the importance of soil and how valuable and vital it is to our life. It was so hard to narrow the presentation to 20 minutes; there was just so much to share with these kids.  I completely enjoyed brainstorming and preparing for this event.  We had put together everything from posters, soil profiles, buckets of different soil textures complete with fake bugs to profile frames showing root developments and even a display with worms. As Friday came closer I found the thought of making approximately 10 presentations to different groups of students freaked me out more than a little. First off I don’t get extremely excited about presenting anything in front of groups of people and second, I had the idea that children who have been cooped up in the city, school and then the bus may just go a little crazy in the fresh farm air (or run around with their noses plugged as some did).  I’d be lying if the thought of calling in sick didn’t cross my mind or the hope that maybe a tornado would come and just take away my part of the presentation.  However I found myself saying over and over again “this will be good for you, this will be good for you” (thanks I Ho Chuan).  Not only was it good, it was great!  I found the more engaged I could get the kids, the more excited and passionate I became.  Yes there were the kids that I would see playing with the fake bugs in my soil piles who seemed to have tuned me out and then there were those absolutely bright whipper snappers (I know, old persons term, my grandma is laughing at me right now) who always seemed a step ahead and challenged me with questions and their ideas, it was fantastic!  And of those kids who seemed more intrigued by the fake bugs, I discovered they were paying attention all along just learned a little differently than the rest of the class.  And as for the kids going crazy on fresh farm air, I couldn’t be more wrong.  These kids were so eager to learn and take in the day that they behaved with respect and gratitude.  It was a pleasure to spend the day with them.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this day, grateful for the I Ho Chuan words “this will be good for you” in my ear and grateful that there were no tornados taking away my soil buckets and fake bugs!  A great way to end the season of a great job!

Alana Regier

http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca

Perhaps a Little Cranky

First off I need to apologize to the team for my lack of blogging lately.  I have no good excuse.  Yes life has been busy and unpredictable and yes I have been having technological difficulties with my google plus and yes I have been a little grumpy and frustrated, but none of that excuses my lack of publicly blogging.  I have sat down to blog every week but have only left the computer with a half a dozen almost finished blogs, with none of them feeling ready to publish.  So where am I and what am I doing?  Well to answer that is tough.  I have for the last 4 months been having some nerve issues in my arms. The last couple of months have only found things to get worse.  I have limited feeling in my arms during the day and I dread the nights more than anything.  Almost 2 hours after going to bed every night I am woken up with what starts as numbness, moving to tingling and then going to shooting pains that have me in tears.  And the night continues like this. To be honest I am completely exhausted, frustrated and tired and having my own little pity party. The last week has been exceptionally bad and I have found myself getting up at 4:00am just to avoid being rudely woken up again.  On a plus note, I have discovered that while all other normal people are still asleep, my dear friend in Australia is awake!   Thanks Darlene! I have exhausted all the chiropractors, massage, accupucture, ice and sleeping with braces to find no relief.  The lack of sleep is making concentration and thought processing difficult not to mention my body more susceptible to other injuries (with my good knee now tweaked).  As of last week, out of complete desperation, I have gone to see my doctor.  I know I should have done that sooner but I am stubborn (it runs in the family) and have had a hard time finding the time to make that happen (another bad excuse).  So I find myself now waiting for EMG (I think those are the right letters) and MRI appointments to find out just exactly what I’m dealing with.  Carpal Tunnel seems to be what is suspected and to the point where surgery is the next step.  Great, 6 weeks of down time, just what I need to get further behind.  With this unreliable grip I have I find myself concentrating and trying so hard to make sure I don’t lose my escrimas.  I am leery of being too close to the mirrors and worse yet to people. If anyone sees my lips moving during demo practice it’s me telling myself repeatedly “hold onto these sticks, hold onto these sticks!” 

Now after spitting that all out and hearing the voices from our last meeting, I am trying to make every effort to continue forward in my training.  I’m not going to lie, I’m finding it hard.  Going to classes with the mindset that I will listen to my body and progress wisely isn’t going so well.  I find there is a special kind of air in the kwoon that makes it hard to feel some injuries until either they are really bad or until I get out to my car.  Sitting on the bench I know I learn tons but it’s hard to sit when you want to do, I got to work on this.  I am still logging my numbers, pushups and plank have taken a kicking (sorry Sifu Csillag on the plank) but I am still on the sit ups, leg lifts, bridge and reaches and kms.   I have learnt the importance of rest for the body and the mind.  I realize all too well that the body can not function to full potential without proper rest and that injuries need to be acknowledged and maybe taken care of at an earlier date (not 4 months later).  I guess right now I have to work more on the mental part. I need to get past the frustration, disappointment and the ‘poor me’ attitude.  I’m working on this, please be patient. I have experienced that injuries can be good for my growth and that they can provide opportunities to learn and excel in other areas but this go around I’m having a harder time seeing that, maybe it’s the lack of sleep that is making this seem impossible.  So I am taking things day by day, still with longer term goals in mind.  I am grateful for the odd nights of more than 4 hours of sleep and that my family has not kicked me out of the house yet because of cantankerousness!

Alana Regier

http:/alanaregier.blogspot.ca

Power in Numbers

As King Solomon, who many historians consider the wisest man to ever live wrote “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor; if one falls down, another can help the other up.”  Ecclessiates 4:9-10

A common theme at the last meeting was the importance of the teams support.  Although it ultimately is our own choices that will determine what we accomplish and where we end up, I believe there is definitely power in numbers and for me it confirms the importance of a team such as the I Ho Chuan.  We all stumble, hit walls, grow tired, have circumstances that discourage and drag us down. These times can be very lonely and without people around us to support, encourage and kick our butts when needed, many will have the tendency to call it quits.  However, if we are surrounded by likeminded people who know and have an understanding of where we want to be and what we want to accomplish, we can be encouraged, pushed, motivated and helped up.  To me this reiterates the importance of building the relationships we do at Silent River as well as the importance of blogging openly, honestly and with purpose.  I have been on the receiving end of the support and help from both the I Ho Chuan team and the Silent River family over the years and understand firsthand the importance and difference it can make.  My success will not only be determined by me alone but by those I choose to surround myself with.  It is the impact that these relationships have that confirm the importance of not only watching out for fellow team mates but realizing that we each have a team to turn to when we need help. 

http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca

Alana Regier

Body Taking a Kicking

The last couple of months have found more downs than ups with moments of my numbers taking a kicking.  I’ve been dealing with a couple of issues lately but it was most recently my back that was impossible to ignore, hindering everything I tried to do.  I have very reluctantly found myself realizing that I’m going to have to start doing things a little different than I have in the past.  Up to this point my jobs have always depended on me being physically able, which honestly I have really enjoyed.  Unfortunately I have found many things getting a little harder than they seemed a few years ago.  I find myself feeling a little humbled, frustrated and a little scared.  Finding myself in this place I believe I need to start focusing on doing things with sustainability and longevity in mind.  As life changes I need to adapt, not give up but adapt.  To rely on one facet or one area of strength is dangerous.  What happens when that strength is threatened or out of operation all together?  Age, injury, illness or circumstances can change things in a heartbeat.  So this puts me in a position of having to dig a little deeper in developing and strengthening in some other areas of my life.  At this moment I don’t exactly know what that looks like for me.  I just know that I have to face the facts that some things are going to have to change and I am going to have to stop resisting that fact. 

For my kung fu right now I’m feeling behind.  Every class I miss, every demo I can’t participate in, every form that has to be modified or every day my numbers aren’t where I want them is tough to swallow.  However with that being said I find myself learning other lessons about myself, about others, about life.  Not all these lessons are easy or even fun and many are hard to admit, but they are there waiting to be acknowledged and worked on.  So in a time that seems to be one of great instability, I find myself feeling a little frazzled and searching.   These are the moments I truly hope will be the ones I learn and grow the most, it’s this thought that will keep me muddling on.

Alana Regier

http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca

Control Freak

Yesterday turned out to be a little more enlightening than I had expected.  When the opportunity of attending the Horsemanship seminar was first posted I was one of the first to sign up.  The prospect of spending a day in an environment with horses, horse smells and surroundings that would bring back a flood of great memories was too much to pass up.  Little did I realize exactly just how much I would learn and take away from the day.

When we first arrived we were seated under a cozy gazebo surrounded by a beautiful garden, water fall, pond and the great outdoors. Amongst this a table with fresh desserts, fruit and the best biscuits I have ever eaten.  We began our afternoon by going over a few famous quotes, each of us picking out the one that spoke directly to us, giving everyone an idea of why we were there, our goals for the day and our comfort level with these incredibly sensitive, intelligent and magnificent animals.  My initial goal for the day was truly very simple, it was to spend a day in a relaxing environment, a day away from the ‘to do list’ and time spent outside the kwoon getting to better know a few of my fellow training mates.  Instead I learnt more about myself and a few of the many things I need to work on.   I needed perhaps an entire week spent at the end of a lead shank.   I found out I wasn’t able to run from a regular hectic Saturday morning and just jump into relax mode.  I found out I have more control issues than I would like to admit and may just be missing out on some of the more minute details (but maybe the most important) in many moments of life because of being in a rush to get to the end product.  In my horse picked for the day I met my match.  Nugget didn’t just go through the motions easily and out of routine but rather challenged me.  I looked at him; he looked at me, closed his eyes as he wished me good luck as he stood his ground.   He didn’t respond to the ‘me’ trying to take control and pull 750lbs on the other end of the lead to get the task done and move on to what’s next.  He had no use for the let’s get moving and we can squeeze even more into the afternoon attitude.  Rather he waited for me to breathe, be in the moment, move with intention and purpose and together work to get us to where we were to go.  

Then came the partner work where once again I found I had to work WITH my partner. I was blind folded leading Nugget while listening to my partner give me instructions as to how to avoid the obstacles on my way down the arena to retrieve the flag and get back safely.  I will be honest, it was hard to stay focused on my partners voice while all around me I could hear others giving instructions to their partners.  I felt I had no control, had to rely on another and was trying to do all this while in an environment full of distractions, all the time fighting the urge to lift the corner of the blindfold.  Trusting can be hard, even when it’s your own son who I hope wasn’t trying to run me into a fence or trip over the rail, although I’m sure it would make him giggle!

In the change of routine in life recently I have found that the roles I once filled and were responsible for are hard to give up and let go.  It is not for the sake that I want to do them myself because I truly do appreciate, need and want the help; it’s just that for so long I controlled them and it was my ‘job’ (as stupid as that may sound).  Others in my life, like Nugget, won’t always or maybe never, respond well with me pulling on the lead fighting for control. I need to hand over the reins on things at times and trust that others are quite capable to do as good of or better job than me.  Once again I am being shown that one person cannot accomplish what working together with others can and that working together and trusting one another makes the end result so much sweeter with many lessons learnt along the way. 

A huge thank you again to Mr. McKee, it was an absolutely wonderful day, rain, lightening, hail and all!

Alana Regier                               

  http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca

Getting the Swing of a New Routine

It has been just over a month now since I started back to work fulltime.  I have been fortunate to be able to be either a stay at home mom when the kids were young or to work part time with jobs that allowed me to work restricted hours around kids’ schedules.  Now as they are growing and becoming more independent I have taken a job that has turned my previous routine upside down.  Although this adjustment has been a bit of a challenge in some ways, my family has totally taken the initiative to help out everywhere possible without me even having to ask.  I am almost a little embarrassed to say that I have only had to cook meals on the weekends and have only had to do grocery shopping a handful of times.  My family may be liking this new routine with the added benefit of better cooking (thank you Brandon) and not having to hear me gripe about the busy line ups at the grocery store or how the shelves were empty and the lettuce limpy! 

My biggest adjustment may be the need for better organization and use of time. I don’t sit around well and have no problem keeping busy but I do have a tendency to think I’m better at multi- tasking than I actually am.  This can sometimes make a mess of good intentions.  Rather than trying to get 3 things done at one time, I need to focus on one and complete it completely and with quality.  Getting my numbers in is proving to be a bit tougher and quite often doesn’t happen till the end of the day which I have to admit is not always with the same gusto as earlier in the day.  On a positive note I have got back to being up before the kids and most of the neighborhood for my morning /get my butt moving walk/drag with my dog and most nights still get into the garage to get to my numbers.   I have been able to get in evening runs which I have found to be exceptionally good for the soul and a wonderful end to my day. 

All in all it’s a routine still in progress.  My list isn’t getting as short as I would like as fast as I would like, but it’s coming.  I have learnt that there is no shame in asking for help and that when everyone in the family works together chaos can be avoided and mama stays happy and well fedJ

Alana Regier

http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca

Harmony

From pretty much day one of this kung fu journey, we became aware that there is both a physical and mental aspect to our training.  However, what about the third, and in my opinion, the most important, the spiritual aspect?   I realize that this is very individual and varies greatly from person to person.  For myself, my spiritual life and faith is of great importance, it truly is the piece of the puzzle that brings everything together.  It gives purpose and meaning to what I do, it gives direction and peace, it gives hope and a future.  This spiritual part is the one that many times isn’t mentioned for differing reasons, whether it’s a lack of awareness, the idea that you may offend someone or just the desire to keep it to ones selves.  I don’t write this to argue what belief is truth, but rather to state the fact that when the physical, mental and spiritual are in harmony there is no end to the success we can have. 

As I look at different moments in my life, I see that my most successful, most peaceful and those moments most full of joy and contentment are when I am where I needed to be spiritually.  These are the moments when the physical and mental were kept in check and moving in a positive direction, all three working in harmony.  Then there are the times when I get caught up in the busyness and chaos of life around me and find myself more aware than ever of a most integral piece missing.   These are the times of missed moments and missed opportunities.  They are also the times when my perspective has a tendency of being a little more negative and in turn, my actions and reactions are ones I am not very proud of. 

So what difference can faith make?  I believe having faith gives you power, power to change the direction and outcome.  I believe it can promote tolerance, respect, understanding and an improvement of values.  I believe it gives people hope and with that hope the perseverance to continue living a life that is positive, encouraging and inspiring to those around us.  To live without faith of any kind seems hopeless and somewhat purposeless to me. The thought that my words and actions don’t make a difference either way, gives me little reason to ever make wise and thoughtful choices.  It makes my existence seem of little importance.  We have enough negative and destructiveness in our world; do I really want to be a part of and responsible for what is wrong?  As hard as it may be some days, I need to make the conscious decision to listen to that part of me that requires my mindful attention.  I need to continue to feed and delve deeper in my spiritual life in order to grow and have the harmony I need.

In a world where there never seems to be enough time and one full of distractions, it is easy to get pulled in the opposite direction of where our heart wants to lead us.  It is more important than ever to develop and grow this area of our lives.  It is guaranteed to change our attitude, our approach and our success.

Alana Regier

http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca

Struggles

I believe we each have struggles of one kind or another.  Some may be bigger and more complex; others may seem small in comparison.  No matter what the struggle is, it is real and legitimate to the person going through it. I wonder if we would treat those around us differently if we each had a sign around our neck stating what we suffer from, struggle with or worry over.  Would we continue to judge people based on our own perception and lack of knowledge of what is really going on in a person’s life?  Would we act with more compassion, empathy, forgiveness and patience if we could really see the inner turmoil of someone in front of us?  Or would we go out of our way to avoid uncomfortable conversations and situations, deny that we heard or saw anything of concern and then plead ignorance when a person’s struggles finally take them to a drastic place? How could we change the lives of those around us just by listening and reaching out to those who are silently screaming for help? 

This week I find myself struggling with the loss of a wonderful young lady, a 13 year old with beauty, talent and so much potential.  I am desperately trying to understand something that seems to have no answer.  I find myself going over many different occasions wondering if I missed seeing any sign that there was something wrong.  What could I have done had I been aware there was a need?  How did so many people miss seeing she needed help?  I worry about the world my kids are growing up in.  They seem to be a generation full of opportunity but are in a world that is expecting them to grow up before they are ready.  They are dealing with issues that kids are not mature enough or equipped to deal with, ending with drastic results.  I turned on the news this morning and the first story is about a First Nation Community declaring a state of emergency after a number of suicide attempts reported over this past weekend.  This community alone has reported 101 suicide attempts since August.  How has this gotten so out of control? What message are people hearing that makes them believe they are not worthy and that there is no other answer? 

I desperately urge all who read this to pay attention to those around you. Talk to your children. Make a point of knowing what is going on in their lives.  Leave no doubt in their minds that you love them, are there for them and that they can come to you with anything.  Don’t be quick to dismiss things that may seem insignificant to you but to a child or teenager may just seem like the end of the world.  Truly listen and help them grow up confident knowing they are worthy; they have a purpose and more than anything that they are loved.

 

Alana Regier

http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca

 

 

Progression In A Personal Challenge

About 8 years ago I found myself dealing with a torn rotator cuff.   I learnt quickly just how much I had taken being able to do simple tasks on a daily basis for granted. At my lowest points I found myself unable to even tie my shoes or hold my keys or a cup of coffee, sleep was impossible with pain and then there was the numbness that flared up leaving me more fumbly (don’t think that’s a word) and accident prone than normal.  When I didn’t’ think it could get worse I was proven wrong.  With one shoulder out of commission the other one had to compensate and was used for EVERYTHING!  Before long I wasn’t even sure which shoulder was in worse condition.

I have over time, and many times by mistake, been learning of the things that aggravate it as well as the bigger things that put me back to dragging my purse and drinking out of a straw.  As much as I have pat myself on the back for not quitting completely, I have found that I have developed some bad habits while unconsciously trying to protect from a re-injury. I have lost muscle strength (especially in the micro muscles) and have a considerable loss of flexibility.  Unfortunately I remember all too well how low and discouraged and in pain I felt at one time and have felt the need to do everything possible from going back to that place.  With that mind set I have sometimes been afraid to push it beyond what I need to in order to get stronger and progress.

 Sooo… as one of my personal requirements this year I have added strength training to my workouts.  In becoming part of this year’s team this personal challenge really was a no brainer.  No matter what weapon I considered, I needed my shoulders, therefore, I needed to strengthen and build.  Three days a week I have added free weights and bowflex exercises to my training routine.  I have had to adjust as I go along and humble myself to using the 2lb weights for some exercises (they truly look small and resemble more of a childs toy).  After 2 months of commitment to these exercises and mindfully working on technique rather than racking numbers, I can honestly say I feel a difference.  It may not be a visible difference to some, however, I know that I can now do Stick form or swing my Escrima sticks around every day without paying for it come bed time.  

I am still practicing progressing wisely and still doing the best I can to listen to my body. I realize that it’s a process and will take time but I am encouraged by the small steps, even though they seem to go in both directions.  Although it is hard for me to admit and I would have argued differently at one point, a great amount can be learnt from injuries.  What you choose to learn and take away from the experience is individual and up to you.  It can be discouraging and humbling but it can only take you out completely if you allow it to.

So today I am grateful for the small steps and progression I have been able to make.  I promise to put my escrima sticks down before numbness sets in to avoid taking out my fellow team mates or the kwoon mirrors.

Alana Regier

http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca

First Class With My Escrima Sticks

So my first class with my escrima sticks has come and gone.  I have not yet found the secret to loving these things.  I have hit myself in the forehead a couple of times, the elbows more than once and have been building the bone density in my shins on a regular basis.  These babies are proving to be a little unlovable at the moment.  As I mutter under my breath and rub my injured body parts, I am constantly reminding myself that 4 years ago I found myself in this same position.  My weapon of choice that year was the nun chucks.  That first class was not pretty.  I was hitting myself repeatedly and was out of control (thank goodness for foam chucks and hockey helmets) .I found myself almost immediately thinking I can’t do this, these things hate me, I need to change this up.  Probably more out of stubbornness than anything, I stuck with them.  After practice, practice and more practice I started to see progress and growth and with that a change in my attitude.  Now I really enjoy them.

Unlike 4 years ago, I feel a kind of discouragement and frustration to a certain point, but have no thought of this as impossible or too hard.  I have experienced that just because something is difficult does not make it impossible or not worthy.  Don’t we tend to appreciate and respect things we have had to work the hardest for?  Don’t we feel just a little more elated when we accomplish something that challenges us rather than those things that come easy?  I am learning that if I want to change the outcome, I need to change the investment. I need to have patience with myself and continue to work past the stumbling blocks and continue in a forward motion.  Practice, practice, practice! I’ m going to love these sticks yet!

Alana Regier

http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca

Congratulations!

One of my favorite parts of our Chinese New Year celebration is hearing candidates’ tell what Kung Fu has done for them.  I always find it interesting to hear just a small portion of the journey that led these people to this point in their life.  Each of us has come with different life experiences, circumstances and perspectives and this chance to speak can be eye opening and inspiring to those who hear it. 

The common thread in every speech, every year, by every candidate is the list of people to thank.  I believe by this time everyone realizes that the accomplishment of earning a black belt is never done completely on one’s own; there is usually a list of people who have each played an integral part of why we are where we are.   Those we surround ourselves with help determine our success.  As I listened to this year’s candidates, I was deeply moved by the heart felt appreciation given to their parents.  These notes of thanks were the perfect example of the effect dedicated, supportive and loving parents can have on the success of their children.  We cannot underestimate the power we have to influence those around us, especially our children.  

I got a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes when listening to the two young people standing up, as I have watched these two grow from their first days in kung fu.  I feel very privileged to have witnessed their progress and success.  Congratulations Sifu Vanderham and Sifu Csillag.  And to the two not so young people, Sifu Krebs and Sifu Fuhr, a huge congratulations to you guys!  And for their promotions to next degree, congrats to Sifu Vantuil and Sifu Regier!

I stumbled on this picture last week that I haven’t seen for a while.  From the look on Sifu Krebs’ face he has enjoyed putting people in headlocks for quite some time, especially family members!

Alana Regier

http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca

 

Motivation for a Year

As the year of the Monkey kicks off and banquet preparations are being made, there is excitement in the air.  People are enthusiastic about getting numbers started, new challenges underway and are fascinated with new shiny weapons.  If only this excitement was so easy to maintain throughout an entire year.  For some it will be an incredible year full of mountain tops.  For others it may be an incredible year of a different makeup, one that will frustrate, discourage and challenge them further than they had originally written down or anticipated.  A year is 365 days that is guaranteed to see change for everyone in one way or another.  Circumstances can change in a heartbeat for any one of us whether that is in our health, finances or motivation.  It is how we choose to react to this change that is going to determine how successful our year will be. 

Personally this year is turning out to be a bit different than I expected already.  For starters, my decision to join the rest of you monkeys is a little later than most.  And now as of Wednesday last week, our youngest son not only restarted kung fu after two years dedicated to soccer, but has now also made the decision to become a monkey as well (maybe it was seeing me throwing my escrima sticks around that dazzled himJ) .  I now have a motivation and unexpected training partner that makes me smile and is already pushing me.  I only hope he remembers that I am over three times his age!  I'm excited to be doing this with you Kayden!

Alana Regier

http:/alanaregier.blogspot.ca

The Samurai

This past week I have spent time studying with our youngest son on the history of Japan.  What I believe was extremely cool was that the study sheets sent home went beyond facts like the country  being made up of over 3000 islands and 73% of the country being mountainous,  and  required the students to dig a little deeper.  They had to first understand the history and tradition but had to think beyond general info and put themselves in the position of a Japanese citizen of a particular class and explain how they would feel and how they would view the changes that were happening in their country in the 1500’s – 1867.  Then on the flip side, they had to try to understand how someone from the western world viewed this unknown country whose society seemed so dedicated in protecting their people and traditions.

 Part of this unit of study included the watching of the movie ‘The Last Samurai.’  I have watched this movie more than once but found myself watching it again this week with a completely different perspective and appreciation for this culture and the Samurai class.  This movie portrays a side of this ‘Warriors’ life that is tranquil and peaceful, one that is intriguing and attractive.  It is a life with known purpose and complete dedication to that purpose. I found myself going a little further than the text book and did a little more research.  Many people would guess the translation of Samurai to be ‘Warrior’, associating them with war and violence.  In actuality the translation is “Those who serve” or “To serve and attend.”  The Samurai did follow an unwritten code known as Bushido meaning “Way of the Warrior”, however, this code held a list of values/virtues that one would not necessarily relate to a warrior.

The values of a Samurai include:

-          Integrity

-          Courage

-          Benevolence

-          Politeness

-          Sincerity

-          Honor

-          Loyalty

-          Self-Control

Although their role was to protect their leaders and the people of their domain, and their status in society was very high, they lived a rather simplistic life.  A life of dedication and loyalty while striving for inner peace and that in the world around them.  Living by this ‘code’ and upholding these values was their way of life.  They truly believed in and committed themselves to their role.

I believe in our world of entitlement and privilege we fail to understand the same depth of commitment and dedication as these Samurai of old.  However, we are fighting battles of a different makeup, those of intolerance, lack of compassion, selfishness, weakness, dishonestly, unaccountability and the list goes on.  It is definitely a world that could use more of each of these virtues.  I think as martial artists, and more specifically Silent River students, we need to consistently and deliberately uphold this list in our day to day lives. We need to understand that our training involves much more than the physical aspects and that we need to give the required attention and focus to those qualities that are more related to the building of strong and positive character. Can you imagine what this world would be like if everyone dedicated themselves to constantly strive for and uphold this list of the Samurai?

Alana Regier

http:/alanaregier.blogspot.ca

 “The Way of a Warrior is based on humanity, love and sincerity; the heart of martial valor is true bravery, wisdom, love and friendship.  Emphasis on the physical aspects of warriorship is futile, for the power of the body is always limited.”

Ueshiba Morihei, The Art of Peace            

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Aspen Grove

I have been surrounded by the aspen tree all my life.  Most people aren’t aware just how unique these trees are.  Unless you take the time to notice, you may not see that this is a tree that does not typically grow as an individual but rather is surrounded by many, standing in a grove.  This grove of trees has a unique connection.  Their root system is interconnected with one another, which enables them to share nutrients and resources in order to support and give stability to one another.  This unbelievable strength, support and persistence will even allow roots to stay dormant for years before deciding to push their way to the surface.  An aspen groves root system can even withstand fires, which to the human eye look like complete devastation, only to at the right moment have new growth appear and a new forest start.  This is also a tree that serves others beyond their own species.  They will provide everything from cover, homes and food for animals to medicinal purposes for humans.  It truly is amazing!

As the start of a new I Ho Chuan year approaches and a new team goes forward, I believe there is a lot we can learn from this tree.   Like the aspen, we can feed each other’s growth.  We can offer the support and resources that will give each of us the stability to stand on our own.  With this support, we will be persistent and successful, sometimes even in directions different than the ones we had in mind from the beginning.   As a group standing together we will initiate change in those around us.  We will stand out and serve our community and the lives of those both near and far.  We will make a difference J 

Alana Regier

http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca

 

Another Monkey

One of the biggest things I have learnt from Kung Fu is the importance of not only setting goals but of attaching deadlines with them.   I am a play by the rules kind of gal and like having expectations set along with a magic date.  In some weird way I think I kind of thrive in that kind of atmosphere.  As a Sihing and as being a member of the I Ho Chuan I had very specific dates.  I knew what was expected from me, had a date given and with that I had to come up with a plan and follow through if I was to be successful.  In making a goal and setting out a plan, I had a purpose behind what I did.  Best put, purpose gives clarity to confusion.

And here comes in the gift of the I Ho Chuan.  Here is a challenge that will not only push you beyond the ordinary, but will help give purpose to what you do.  Of course there is the set of team goals but then there are the personal goals.  These are the goals that are handpicked by you.  They are individual and have great meaning and significance to us individually.  These are the goals that help you fulfill YOUR purpose in making the change you want to see in your life and in those around you.

I have not been a part of the I Ho Chuan team for the past two years.  I have been a silent member trying to go it alone, cheerleading for each person who was on the team, while trying to maintain my own engagement without a team.  I have kept up my logging with situps, pushups, leg lifts, km’s and now squat thrusts.  I have continued with journaling, however not publically.  I have found myself sitting in on the I Ho Chuan classes that Darcy has been able to make, all of the time wishing I was on the floor.   Although timing in life may not be perfect, with an encouraging word from Darcy and thumbs up from Kayden, I am now going to be part of the upcoming Monkey team!  Whoo Hoo! J

 

Alana Regier

http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca