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.V.” Vind, Ken “Ramjet” Rogers (now Anderson) and Rose “Renegade” Hoberg.

The strongest man in the world is he who stands most alone.

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.

We must learn to live with ourselves, independently of anything in this world.

I never must forget that none’s my true companion here, for all are gathered here for selfish ends.

From The Black Belt Book of Life: Secrets of a Martial Arts Master.

Beware that you do not lose the substance by grasping at the shadow.

Be not deceived with the first appearance of things, for show is not substance.

The leader shows that style is no substitute for substance.

CONGRATULATIONS SMASHER, aka Aidan Ligtvoet, on being promoted to Purple Belt! Aidan’s test was on 6 August 2019. Pictured from left to right are his brother, Tristan, aka “Raptor” (the 64th Black Belt of the Kiado-Ryu who currently holds a 2nd Dan ranking); mom Atousa and dad Edward.

Smasher’s journey to Purple Belt was a long one but highly inspirational. Aidan is the epitome of the #1 quality common to all successful people, and especially those distinguished individuals who became Kiado-Ryu Black Belts—persistence. He still has a long way to go but with his innate determination, a KIA Black Belt brother, and highly supportive parents, he will one day join the elite company of the 2% of students who achieved Black Belt status in the Kiado-Ryu system of martial arts.