Every Tuesday evening and Saturday morning, our friend Jose, better known as the “Senor de Karate,” comes to Love & Hope Children’s Home to teach us karate and self-defense. The classes are provided by our friends at PGS. It is a great family activity and even the adults participate.
Jose usually starts off with a warm-up and stretches. He talks us through everything, explaining the benefits of each exercise.
We also practice kicks and punches. Jose, who is very, very experienced in martial arts, demonstrates each kick or punch, then says, “Like that!” He has just kicked his leg (literally) above his head, so his instructions to try it are usually met with a little timidity, doubtful faces and comments of, “There is no way that I’ll be able to do that!” But everyone does their best to try and Jose circulates to correct our form as we practice.
Eliseo and Chamba usually help “lead” the class. They like standing up front with Jose, counting off exercises or kicks with him. Sometimes these two cuties even feel entitled to offer the rest of us a little advice!
Jose has also taught us self-defense. This seems to be the kids’ favorite, as after class and the next day they always want to demonstrate how they can take you down. “Grab my arm here!” “Wrap your arms around my waist!” We adults like to think twice before indulging them in this request, because it will result with us on the ground.
Karate is a great sport for learning discipline and control. Jose is a wonderful example for our children! We really appreciate his willingness to teach us karate every week. Thank you to PGS and to Jose!