One of the greatest gifts of martial arts is that rising to any rank requires struggle. It is struggle that makes us stronger, sharper, more skilled, refined, tough and enduring. Rising to the level of Black Belt in the Kiado-Ryu System of Martial Arts demands years of study and thousands of hours of practice—always refining and developing our technique and character. Martial Arts is Life and as martial arts is full of struggles and challenges, so is life.

From The Black Belt Book of Life: Secrets of a Martial Arts Master. As the greatest gift exacts the greatest price, the greatest accomplishment exacts the greatest sacrifice. Spiritual development requires great sacrifice. Saint Sawan Singh Sacrifice, which is the passion of great souls, has never been the law of societies. Henri Frédéric Amiel Great achievement is usually born of great sacrifice, and is never the result of selfishness. Napoleon Hill Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

Alexander the Great was one of history’s greatest military leaders. He lived in the 3rd Century B.C. and was never defeated in battle. As King of Macedon, Alexander created one of the largest empires in the ancient world. The following quote (or a facsimile) is attributed to Alexander. It emphasizes the immense power of leadership.

Great fighters are great thinkers. Battles are won with brain, not brawn. Sun Tzu’s words of avoiding peril are as universally true today as they were in his time.

It’s hard to believe how fast time flies. Yet, the special memories of days-gone-by fortunately do not die but forever remain imprinted on those of us who lived them. So many Black Belts have sent emails recalling, and being grateful for, the glorious past and brotherhood they created through their enormous personal gifts and exceptional energies. The following photo was taken on Saturday, 9 June 1990, at our KIA studio in Lake Forest, CA, after a Black Belt Coronation ceremony honoring Rod “Rock” Hickman, Eric “E.

The strongest man in the world is he who stands most alone. Henrik Ibsen I am sure of this, that by going much alone a man will get more of a noble courage in thought and word than from all the wisdom that is in books. Ralph Waldo Emerson We must learn to live with ourselves, independently of anything in this world. Saint Charan Singh I never must forget that none’s my true companion here, for all are gathered here for selfish ends.