For You Have Sinned by Clifford Edwards

Author:Clifford Edwards [Edwards, Clifford]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781543997408
Publisher: BookBaby
Published: 2020-01-18T22:00:00+00:00

7

Dallas, Texas

April, 2001

“Before we get started with practice today, who can tell me the first of our five guiding principles for karate?” asked the man in the white karate gi wrapped with a black belt. The class looked back it him with blank faces. “No one here can tell me the first principle? I know you guys know this. We go over this every week.”

Chuy was kneeling on the mat, sitting on his feet along with the other children in the class. He was nearly the smallest boy in the room; second only to a frail, red headed, freckled child who was kneeling near the back of the class. The boy, David, was three years older than Chuy and generally kept to himself. Chuy didn’t get the impression that David wanted to participate in karate class, whatsoever. Before class, Chuy saw him trying to get back inside his mother’s mini van as she locked the doors and sped off. David always showed up to class with watery eyes that matched his hair.

Even though Chuy was only 12 years old, Sensei Glenn thought it would be best for him to train with the 13 to 16 year olds. “I’d only be holding you back, Chuy,” his sensei had told him, “You’re too advanced for the kiddie classes.” Chuy didn’t feel advanced. He was a bit of a late bloomer and now he was the youngest boy in a dojo full of ‘men’. The kid next to him had a five o’clock shadow. Chuy reluctantly raised his hand.

“Finally,” Glenn said, frustrated. “Chuy, do you know the first principle for karate?”

“Um, yes, Sensei.”

“Alright, what is it, Chuy?”

“‘Character’,” he answered.

“That’s right, Chuy. Class, we are always seeking perfection of ‘Character’. It doesn’t matter if we win or lose, it’s just important that we try. The only way you can fail is by quitting. Does everyone understand?”

“Yes, Sensei,” the group shouted back with enthusiasm.

“Okay, anyone want to try for the second principle?” Glenn looked around the room and saw only one boy with his hand half raised. “Chuy, then, what’s the second principle?.

“‘Sincerity’,” Chuy said.

“Very good, Chuy. ’Sincerity’ is being faithful to ourselves in everything we do. If we can deal with others with ‘Sincerity’ , we start to build a feeling of trust and mutual respect with them. Be honest and sincere and try to be the best person you can be. Now, who knows the third principle? Anyone?” Glenn asked.

Chuy didn’t raise his hand immediately. The sensei scanned the room to find other willing participants first. He saw none, then looked back to Chuy.

“‘Effort’,” Chuy said, not wanting to let his sensei down.

“Yes, ‘Effort’,” Glenn said with a sigh. “This seems to be the one everyone, except Chuy, is forgetting. It’s not that hard, people. Your parents are taking valuable time out of their day to get you here. The least you could do is put in a little ‘Effort’. Chuy, just tell everyone the last two principles so we can get on with class.

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