I recently sat down with my four-year-old son, Michael, to review the written portion of his orange belt test. It went something like this: “Michael, do you know the name of your instructor?” I asked. “Yes, that’s easy…it’s Mr. Maes.” he replied. “Good. Now, do you know who was the person responsible for introducing Moo Sul Kwan to the United States?” “Yes, that’s easy too…it’s Miss Meyung.” he answered. He had so much pride in his voice as he answered the last question that I hated to burst his bubble. So, with a smile on my face, I told him to try again. “Here’s a hint,” I told him. “It’s Great Grandmaster……?” “SIT UPS!” he shouted with complete confidence. I broke into hysterics and, following my lead, so did my son.   Having a child enrolled as a CTI student has proven to be one of the most rewarding experiences that I have faced as a parent. So, maybe Michael was a little mixed-up in answering some of his test questions. So, he confused Great Grandmaster Lee H. Park, a 9th dan black belt who was responsible for bringing Moo Sul Kwan from Korea to the United States in 1969 and Miss Alice Meyung, a 2nd dan black belt at Green Mountain that Michael absolutely adores. Legitimate mistake! Certainly it is easy for all of us to understand and forgive a child’s confusion, at times, when answering test questions. There are facts that people just sometimes forget. But, now I’d like to take a quick opportunity to list some of the influential teachings that CTI students, even Michael, NEVER forget: Courtesy: At CTI, all children are taught to respect themselves and others. This philosophy is engrained in them as they are expected to address adults and upper belts as Ma’am and Sir. They are taught to take pride in their dojang and their work. They bow upon entering the workout area as a sign of reverence to their sport. They are taught to shake hands with each other as a symbol of admiration for their fellow students and for themselves. Integrity: CTI students are taught to be honest with others and with themselves. They must take an active role in their success. They are expected to complete monthly written homework assignments that must be returned in a timely manner. These assignments involve drafting articles or answering questions about topics that directly relate to one’s character, such as Honesty, Anger Management, and Modesty. Self-Control: Another important trait that CTI strives to capture and instill is the use of self- restraint. This may apply to sparring in a tournament as well as a potential confrontation at school or on the street. ‘Ho-Shin’ is a term that is used at the end of every class as a reminder to always exercise self-control before self-defense. In facing dangerous confrontations, it is always best if you can walk away. Perseverance: ‘Keep Pushing!’ is a term frequently heard at CTI. All students at CTI, along with their instructors, set individualized goals. Students receive constant encouragement and are praised when they reach these goals. Indomitable Spirit: Determination is a character trait often found in CTI students. It is this strength that makes all the other tenets attainable. With a positive attitude, students will reach their goals while developing a sense of pride in themselves, their school and each other. It is this type of resolute, unconquerable attitude that exemplifies the true spirit of the CTI family. CTI students simply do not forget these Tenets of Taekwondo. They can’t forget. They are the values that have been instilled in them from the day they enter the dojang. They are principles that are expected to be employed at CTI and applied to all other facets of the students’ lives.   It is for all of these reasons that I am proud to be a parent of a CTI student.   -Holly Madayag, mother of Michael Madayag