02/22/2026
In today’s episode of what we did “Down Under”… 🇦🇺
The boys were invited to join a new friend at karate.
They’ve never learned a single thing about it and were so nervous.
We talked about the power of doing things that make you uncomfortable.
That bravery isn’t the absence of fear — it’s being scared and doing it anyway.
So… they agreed to go.
My friend Heidi told me the sensei was 77 years old, had studied in Japan for many years, and ran a small club tucked into a peaceful setting surrounded by giant, gorgeous trees. It felt calm the second we arrived.
Before class even began, he taught them their very first lesson.
Shoes off at the door.
Line them up neatly.
Bow when you enter.
And say “Konnichiwa” — a greeting in Japanese that means hello and shows respect.
Instant mama melt.
I’ll be honest… in my mind I was expecting a very old man with a long white beard, kind of like the wise master you see in the movies 😂
Instead, out walks this completely ripped man who looked no older than 50.
He was patient, but firm.
And he taught them about so much more than just karate.
Self-discipline.
Respect.
Character.
He explained that while they’ll learn to fight and defend themselves, only a weak person would intentionally harm someone with those skills — unless it’s a last resort in self-defense.
He also shared how important it is for students who’ve been practicing longer to help teach the new ones — because teaching strengthens both. The leader grows. The beginner feels supported. Everyone learns.
And honestly… I loved that lesson just as much as they did.
So proud of my brave boys for walking into something unknown, bowing, and saying “Konnichiwa” anyway 🤍
