Karate Kid theme on show at Boronia
BY LERISSE SMITH
I can still vividly recall the first time I watched the 1980s cult classic The Karate Kid.
While most of us can probably still remember the sharp Kiai! and Hiya! sounds echoing in our minds during the training and fight scenes, and the distinctive headbands, the heart of the film revolves around a teenager, Daniel, who becomes the target of a gang of students at school.
The teenager then meets the eccentric Mr. Miyagi, a karate master who teaches him to defend himself and put his bullies in their place. He shows him that true strength comes from within. He teaches the teenager that the secret to karate lies in the mind and heart – not in the hands.
I experienced this very theme firsthand when I visited Boronia Corps (Vic.) to see Knox Dojo in action. It was far more profound and inspiring than I had expected.
The experience turned out to be a living testament to the philosophy of Kyokushin, which in Japanese means ‘Ultimate Truth’. The name selected by the founder, Mas Oyama, describes the pinnacle of martial arts training. Not an end result but a never-ending path to the point where dedication, perseverance and sweat meet strength, humility, and wisdom.
Yes, there was sweat – and interesting sounds of all sorts!
But I learned that Kyokushin Karate goes beyond physicality. It instils self-awareness, self-control, and respect for others, with the values of integrity, humility, and perseverance becoming ingrained, empowering individuals to become better citizens and make a positive impact on society.
As I watched people of all ages gather in their crisp white uniforms and varying coloured belts to train in the martial art supported by the Salvos, I was struck by the powerful example of these values in action.
The martial way always begins and ends with courtesy in the form of a bow. And with the Dojo Kun’s core values boldly displayed on two large screens in the Dojo space, the courtesy and respect from each participant towards one another, their instructors, and their Master, Sempai Aharon Claridge, was immediately clear.
Even amidst some fast-paced action, including the well-known high kick manoeuvres, there was a calm reverence for the discipline of Kyokushin Karate. Each martial art movement is precise and measured, while sounds are an important part of the practice and serve various purposes, such as demonstrating power, focus, or intention.
I could not help but notice a particularly heartwarming moment when a young boy sparred with an older and taller opponent. The gentleman encouraged the boy so warmly that he forgot his small stature and embraced the courage inside him. It was truly uplifting.
When I wandered outside to the peaceful, bush-lined area at the rear of the church, where some participants were honing their skills and fitness, I again saw total concentration and unwavering devotion to their martial art, as well as respect for oneself, for others, and for the art itself. Kyokushin Karate, I realised, is not just a martial art sport – it is a philosophy in motion. It is not just about training – it is a way of life.
It was inspiring to see how the Salvos have united the community by providing a safe and welcoming environment where individuals from all walks of life could grow and learn together through cultivating martial arts skills and personal growth whilst being encouraged and supported by their local corps.
It took the vision of Tracey Brown, the corps leadership team and Sempai Aharon to transform their church auditorium into a space for personal and communal growth. Through this simple but powerful act, they have fostered connections that have improved lives.
And there was no more powerful testament to this than when I had the chance to speak with a few of the martial artists who shared their personal transformations.
Frank spoke about how karate had given him the mental fortitude to push through tough health issues, while Lyndsay described how it taught him the importance of humility and being a role model. Kobe shared how karate was everything to him and how its values really spoke into his life. Put simply, Kyokushin Karate had changed their lives – and others – for the better.
The relentless pursuit of excellence had fostered mental resilience and a determination to overcome challenges.
Their personal stories gave me a newfound respect for Kyokushin Karate. Regardless of age, gender, or background, martial arts welcomes all who seek personal growth and empowerment – whether you want to compete, improve self-defence skills, or simply find inner strength.
My experience at the Knox Dojo also left me with a profound sense of gratitude. I realised the many valuable life lessons Kyokushin Karate can instil in all of us and how the Salvos’ support and encouragement of a great community initiative are truly shining for the benefit of others.
And in the martial arts world, the rewards of a confident and grateful heart are truly abundant.
