Tae kwon do
Tae kwon do"Momma always said don't take the easy way outta' life. The more you give the more you get." This common theme seems to ring true throughout the entire world. Ironically, Americans can be better described as trying to get by in life with doing the least amount of work, while still receiving as much as they possibly can. In other words, taking the easy way out. While the typical stereotype of Asians, more specifically Koreans, is a hardworking class of people who's ultimate goal in life is inner peace. One definite example of this is shown through the practice of TaeKwon-Do in both cultures. TaeKwon-Do is taken to more of an intense level in Korea compared to the United States. Koreans have developed it as a martial art form and a way of life, while Americans in general have taken bits and pieces of it to suit their life style.
TaeKwon-Do originated in Korea about 20 centuries ago. As a free-fighting combat sport using bare hands and feet to repel an opponent, TaeKwon-Do is used solely as a defensive mechanism. People trained in TaeKwon-Do can overcome an opponent using their hands, fists, elbows, knees, feet or any other part of their body. It also is used to improve one's health, physical fitness, poise, and self-confidence. The literal translation of TaeKwon-Do is "Tae- jumping or flying, to kick or smash with the foot, Kwon- to punch or destroy with the fist, Do- the art or way of." (http://www.itatkd.com/whatiskd.html)
The philosophy of TaeKwon-Do is to create a more peaceful world, and to do this its foundation begins with the individual person. Trying to develop positive aspects of personality like respect, courtesy, goodness, trustworthiness, loyalty, humility, courage, patience, integrity, perseverance, self-control, an indomitable spirit and a sense of responsibility to help and respect all forms of life is what TaeKwon-Do individuals strive for. Students studying TaeKwon-Do memorize and recite the student oath and the tenets...
To view the complete essay, you be registered.