The M.A.D. Dad
Bio
I call myself the M.A.D. Dad. M.A.D. stands for Martial Arts Direction. I want to help others battle the forces that threaten our peace with lessons that I have been blessed to discover through my experiences in both Martial Arts and Life.
Stories (29/0)
Knowing and Understanding
It is always a fascinating to watch a student attempt to apply a new skill. No matter how capable or versed, any student will inevitably struggle with the application of new information to a problem. The tension is evident in the face of the student as he or she tries to verify the necessary skills to correctly address the concern or task.
By The M.A.D. Dad20 days ago in Motivation
Sharing Knowledge
Looking at the history of military conflict or martial arts, communication has been a topic the permeates all areas of these subjects. Whether it involves organizing a response or reviewing an event, communication has been valued as both a resource and a weapon.
By The M.A.D. Dad30 days ago in Motivation
Exchange of Ideas
Much like the photo above, many people are very comfortable when tucked away into a certain environment. A pattern or routine becomes commonplace and change can be difficult. Marital arts is no different. People follow a certain style with ingrained principles and philosophies and look into focusing on those tenets and beliefs. Too often, martial artists let this focus lead to blindness.
By The M.A.D. Dad2 months ago in Motivation
Gathering Together Around The Christmas Tree
Having just concluded many holiday trips and interactions, it is interesting to reflect on how those get-togethers and activities concluded. I find that the best indicator of a good trip is the feeling or longing to return home. Also, the best indicator of a bad trip is a strong desire to return home.
By The M.A.D. Dad2 months ago in Motivation
An Early Christmas Present
Christmas is a little over a week away from today. Usually, thoughts drift to wrapping things in boxes with colorful paper or placing items in gift bags to be attacked by recipients early on Christmas morning. But, to me, I have always been curious why we use the term "presents" and not always say "gifts."
By The M.A.D. Dad3 months ago in Motivation
Reflections on Times Past
The Holidays stir up so many positive memories. Now that I am older, I guess I really appreciate more the small customs that I attribute to those that have passed out of my life. I wish, as I am sure most people do, that I had been able to realize or cherish so many past events more at the times than I did when they occurred.
By The M.A.D. Dad4 months ago in Motivation
If you only knew her or him like I did...
Loss is never easy. In my estimation, it is probably the most difficult item to negotiate in our passage of time. Too often we share loss in our personal circle. A person moves on to another existence, and we are left with memories.
By The M.A.D. Dad4 months ago in Motivation
If Only We Were Kids Again......
The following is a true account. I think it says much for how things should be done in life. It also poses some tough questions about how each of us view ourselves and others. I challenge the reader to reflect from his or her current viewpoint as an adult and then reflect on how he or she may have viewed this situation as a child.
By The M.A.D. Dad5 months ago in Motivation
When trials come....
May you live in peaceful times. I have heard this phrase many times in movies or short stories. It is an old blessing that one generation would proclaim or try and pass onto future generations. As a parent, I wish that my child only sees happy and good days or peaceful times. Yet, trials and tribulations will appear at some point in any existence.
By The M.A.D. Dad6 months ago in Motivation
One True Friend
We are bombarded moment to moment by the idea of value. From alarm clock sounding in the morning to start a day to turning off the bedroom light to return to rest, we seek to trade one type of good for another. We judge how much time we need to invest in hygiene. We calculate the best deal on gas. We look to moving to a new city or changing jobs to save or gain better opportunities.
By The M.A.D. Dad6 months ago in Motivation
Skill-In Training: Mercy
How often do you find yourself fraying in splintered bits of emotional energy in response to something that may not really meet that emotional output? It is safe to guess that we all have had someone cut us off in traffic or say something harshly to us which we immediately followed with an angry or upset thought, action or deed. Why?
By The M.A.D. Dad6 months ago in Motivation
Temptation
Life throws many competing influences at each of us daily. Decisions are omnipresent. Additionally, value is being assessed at every juncture in our experience. What is more important? What is right? What is wrong? Who is judging my actions? Is anyone paying attention to what I am doing? All of these questions and more flood our cognitive space.
By The M.A.D. Dad7 months ago in Motivation
