Dear Masters, Instructors, Black Belts, and Fellow Students,
The holiday season is upon us, and I would like to take this moment to express my sincere appreciation for your dedication, hard work, and loyalty to the International Silkisondan Karate Association. It is through your commitment—day after day, class after class—that our art continues to grow, strengthen, and inspire. I also extend my warmest wishes to you, your families, and your loved ones for a joyful and meaningful holiday season.
As we reflect on the year and consider what it means to be grateful, I would like to share a few thoughts.
Recently, there has been a rise in videos and comments comparing traditional Karate training with mixed martial arts competition, particularly cage fighting. I understand the curiosity behind these comparisons, but I would like to offer my perspective on this trend.
Cage fighting is a sport—intense, entertaining, and often driven by the pursuit of quick victory and public acclaim. It can even resemble gambling, where the outcome is immediate and the reward or loss is felt instantly. Its purpose is short-term, focused on winning the moment.
Karate, however, is a long-term investment. It is a lifelong journey. Its rewards unfold quietly and gradually: improved health, disciplined character, inner strength, and wisdom that deepens with time. In Karate, victory is not found in a single match but in the daily commitment to becoming a better version of yourself. Every stance, every kata, every moment of humility and perseverance contributes to a stronger mind, a stronger body, and a stronger spirit.
As practitioners of a traditional martial art, I hope each of you can see this difference clearly. Stay true to your path. Continue to train with sincerity, patience, and purpose. Your effort today compounds into your strength tomorrow.
Wishing all of you a peaceful, rejuvenating, and happy holiday season.
Respectfully,
Master Thinh
