Howdy Fellow Kickers!!! Welcome to the latest edition of "Dragon's Breath!"

Conviction is the theme for this month's discussion. Conviction is, simply stated, standing up for what is right even when others don't. That is often times hard to do. Especially when so many around us seem to lack the conviction to do or say what is right. It is always seemingly easier to do the wrong thing.

Have you ever had someone make fun of you because you were different or the new kid in town? Doesn't feel good, does it? The same is true for anyone else in that situation. As martial artists we are in a position having learned to have confidence in ourselves and to know what is right and what is wrong in how we treat others. So, just because everyone else has decided to pick on someone or made the choice to break the rules does not mean we should be inclined to do so.

WIn fact we should choose to be the voice of opposition when others are going along with what you know in your heart to be wrong. Stand up for those who can't stand up for themselves. Make friends with the new kid when others refuse. Choose not to join in the ridicule of someone. Be the one to say, "No, this is not right!" Even though you may feel scared or alone when you stand for what is right, belief without action is just as bad as being a participant.

So, have conviction, honorable kickers, and stand up for what is right, even when others don't.

"P.S. –For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

Stay focused, Mr. Richard