tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15367861637025507182023-11-11T15:30:46.362-08:00Jehovah DoPastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-39662640462980811392016-06-10T18:15:00.000-07:002016-06-10T18:15:18.839-07:00Remembering the slugger from louisville. Muhammad Ali<br />
<br />
Fighting thoughts: As a boxer he will always be remembered as "The greatest". Olympian, multi time world boxing champ. The world's most famous boxer who was an incredible entertainer.<br />
What did he bring as a fighter?<br />
As an athelete Ali was amazing for being a tall man who moved like a lightweight. He was amazing for his sense of longevity boxing from the 60's though to the early 80's.<br />
He was an amazing entertainer who understood the business side of sports. He bring comedy, poetry, political intrigue, religious turmoil into the ring and into the world/ He could play a very abusive villain and switch to a very good humanitarian in later life. He was such an entertainer that he even crossed over it the realm of sports entertainment and pro-wrestling. letting himself get tossed around by the giant gorilla monsoon. Even wrestling the legendary japanese wrestling champ antonio Inoki. (it should be understood that japanese wrestling is infamous for "working stiff" and wrestlers are known for giving their opponents full impact or even in some bouts just fighting for real. Ali left the ring victorious but nearly paralyzed from 15minutes of leg kicks. Ali even referee'd wrestle mania 1.<br />
<br />
In terms of martial arts Ali made improvements and hinderences to the fighting value of boxing. <br />
In the negative Ali adjusted his fighting style to contort around the rules of pro-boxing, which while making himsuccesful in the ring stripped the martial arts value of a real life encounter. The high punches had greater speed and people could land points better. But in real fighting the high hands opens the boxer ups to kicks and grappling.<br />
In the positive the famous "rope-a-dope" strategy against George Foreman gives to real fighting in the sense that your opponent in real life has a limit of endurance in a street fight before a good defense combined with time does become a powerful offense. Also his foot work brought a new dimension to hand fighting and a great tool for distraction.<br />
Also Drama plays a role in real life fighting, getting your opponent either distracted or disoriented can be a great tool for enhancing an altercation.<br />
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Personal Thoughts:<br />
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I have a lot of mixed feelings when hearing of the passing of Muhammad
Ali. A lot of it hit's home. He grew up in my city. Friends from high
school told me stories from their parents and uncles knowing him and
some even beating him up as a young boy. He was a larger than life
figure and a sports hero. When someone grows up in your town and
achieves worldwide fame it makes you wonder about your own potential.
He will always be known as a legend in boxing. I am aware of many good
deeds in the community and many good causes he has supported. I even
saw a youtube video where he gave a speech to British atheists
encouraging them to believe in God.<br /> On these issues i think it is good to show respect.<br />
But when we speak of Muhammad Ali I don't think we are speak of the
man. When the world talks muhammad ali "the greatest". We are
speaking of an idol. Perhaps even the man knew he was worshipping an
idol.<br /> Ironically the man was named after another man 1800's civil
rights activist Cassius clay. The man was named by his parents who were
of the baptist faith and it is inevitable that he heard the gospel many
times and deny the gospel of Jesus in fact he blasphemed himself as the
"savior of the boxing world". Then he changed his name to the name of
another man "muhammad ali". The egyptian ali was a man of war. "The
event was held on March 1, 1811. When the Mamluks had gathered at the
Citadel, and were surrounded by Muhammad Ali's troops, he had his troops
kill them.[b] After the leaders were killed, Muhammad Ali dispatched
his army throughout Egypt to rout the remainder of the Mamluk forces."<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ali_of_Egypt" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ali_of_Egypt</a><br />
It is quite ironic that in the name of religion he changed his name to
war monger and claimed it made him a pacifist. But war is a tricky
topic, so who can judge?<br /> The real problem is not whether he was
always right or wrong. The real problem is "the greatest" in this life
verses "the greatest" in the next life. Ali got everything that life
has to offer. He aquired wealth and fame and prestige. People even
show him religious devotion. But what will the next life provide him?
Now I believe that anyone can make a "deathbed confession" But you have
to assume there is a confession. So the message of his life will have
to do. We know of 2 doctrines Ali held. Islamic religion and self-esteem
philosophy. Jesus the name above all names did not teach self esteem
theology as the bible states.<br /> philippians 2: 3 Let nothing be done
through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem
other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things,
but every man also on the things of others. 5 Let this mind be in you,
which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 who, being in the form of God, thought
it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 but made himself of no
reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the
likeness of men: 8 and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled
himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross"
The religion of Islam offers a different gospel than the gospel of
salvation based upon an angel. Galatians 1:6 I marvel that ye are so
soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto
another gospel: 7 which is not another; but there be some that trouble
you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But though we, or an
angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we
have preached unto you, let him be accursed."<a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fbiblesmack.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fis-allah-same-as-jehovah.html&h=_AQF8QVXOAQEIc6GMIaGVCzRaabk2-PnkU9PqkrbdgT6VTQ&enc=AZNOOhz356ZUXByJDqdRkaEjI8-nNVWQfQ656NwxkVRjbZV907qUsQm4YUjYUX1GZ_TC2--5-gbn7-y8aug7qb4kqsZuGmek3mEpD5AaLxcEuQKQsFd0hD3qrf6R-RtVPyePB7Cq1kt4PrPWf70NKLa9qwSOu23wv_HH97Upw_NfhmcLJ382UNlDq9adKzSC8SE&s=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://biblesmack.blogspot.com/…/is-allah-same-as-jehovah.h…</a> <br />
Not only does this false teaching rip people away from the truth of
the gospel but it brings them naked before God as sinners in time fore
judgement. But it spreads like poison. Ali today is not on earth
receiving adoration from his followers. He is standing before the
almighty jehovah as a mere mortal who claimed to be great. <br /> romans
3:19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them
who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the
world may become guilty before God. 20 Therefore by the deeds of the law
there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the
knowledge of sin. The only way of salvation is because of the blood!!!!<br /> <a href="http://biblesmack.blogspot.com/2013/03/its-because-of-blood-reason-why-blood.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://biblesmack.blogspot.com/…/its-because-of-blood-reaso…</a><br /> We need our heavenly Father more than we need a role model. <br /> <a href="https://youtu.be/PRFqgmkmcJs?list=PLr4zHIDphGjRN0ZpLPwqyYIfD5aVsCrxo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/PRFqgmkmcJs…</a><br /> I earnestly do respect this man's accomplishments.<br />
But I am willing to take the Heat, if takes the heat from the fires of
hell from off the backs of someone who like to hear the grace of the
gospel of Jesus Hears the hope of salvation.<br /> <a href="https://youtu.be/6k-LCZE3S6s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/6k-LCZE3S6s</a>Pastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-26593894884321529882013-09-18T08:32:00.000-07:002013-09-18T08:32:23.741-07:00real life self defense.Many times martial arts gets mythologized.<br />
We emphasize Olympic level athletics and nearly superhuman abilities.<br />
But we all learn there is a difference between the tall tales of super ninjas and Bruce Lee.<br />
<br />
This is epidemic in most athletics. When athletes are recorded a couple inches taller than reality.<br />
<br />
Recently I saw an example of reality. As christian martial artist friends had to face it head on.<br />
<br />
My friends (we will cal d1 and d2) d1 and his wife 2 are both physically handicapped. They do not drive and rely on the bus system.<br />
D1 is a 40 year old man. He is short and has cerebral palsy. limiting the movement of his right hand and leg. He was actually quite atheletic in the past but he has gotten older. As a result he uses a mechanical wheelchair to make up for his limits in walking.<br />
D2 is obese and has limited vision as well as having scoliosis. She also deals with with disorders involving communication. She is also in her forties.<br />
D1 is a 2nd degree blackbelt. D2 has a blue belt.<br />
As they were traveling on the bus in the inner city, an unruly group of 5 came on the bus. A woman said some rather unruly things about D1 in his wheel chair. D2 verbally came to his defense.<br />
The woman went and began striking D2. D2 noticed that she had a child. So out of respect she simply blocked the shots.<br />
D1 stepped in to break them up. but then the others tackled him and held him down. He broke the locks. at which point the woman struck him. he responded with a punch. He was tackled again and held down. the woman jumped on him and pounded him in the face. He bloodied his nose. He responded by breaking out a second time. Then the police showed up.<br />
The police took the side of D1 and D2. Asked them if they wanted to press charges and they declined. D1 felt ashamed and embarrassed that he had to strike a woman. But honestly she was attacking his wife and then him. I think D1 and D2 reacted appropriately. D2 decided to turn the other cheek and D1 had to protect his family. after all the danger D1 had a bloody nose, but no serious injury and the police took their side of it.<br />
I think the general feeling about it all is very negative. And there are obvious reasons for this.<br />
Violence is not good. Violence is not just the issues of physical trauma. you can practice physical threats all day long for years.<br />
But there is a certain psychological devastation that comes from hatred. Violence is a sinful curse of our society and it may be just at times. But it is never overtly good. This is a microcosm of how we deal with war. We live in an evil world and will eventually have to have violent confrontations. We must be prepared for it. But in reality it is not something to enjoy.<br />
In reality we are also not as prepared as we wish to be. D1, could have gotten out of it without getting hit once. If he was as prepared as he was the day before testing for his black belt.<br />
<br />
But that is not reality. Reality is ugly and sloppy. By nature you will not be prepared. now some martial artist have become obsessed with this concept of reality. but the only way to practice for it is to get in a large amount of street fights. But there is a problem here. What if you become beaten up and crippled in your training? what would be the point of self defense if your beating yourself up anyway?<br />
I remember watching a former gang banger talk about the killings he would do. it would sound like hes is tough. but now he has heart problems and is paralyzed from the waist down. obviously anyone could take him down now.<br />
<br />
So we have to prepare ourselves. But let's not over do it. My safety ultimately is based on the protection from my God.<br />
Psalms 92 <br />
<span class="text Ps-92-9" id="en-KJV-15421"><sup class="versenum">9 </sup>For, lo, thine enemies, O <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, for, lo, thine enemies shall perish; all the workers of iniquity shall be scattered.</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-92-10" id="en-KJV-15422"><sup class="versenum">10 </sup>But my horn shalt thou exalt like the horn of an unicorn: I shall be anointed with fresh oil.</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-92-11" id="en-KJV-15423"><sup class="versenum">11 </sup>Mine eye also shall see my desire on mine enemies, and mine ears shall hear my desire of the wicked that rise up against me.</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-92-12" id="en-KJV-15424"><sup class="versenum">12 </sup>The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon.</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-92-13" id="en-KJV-15425"><sup class="versenum">13 </sup>Those that be planted in the house of the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> shall flourish in the courts of our God.</span>Pastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-7922349740313197252013-06-25T10:47:00.004-07:002013-06-25T10:47:43.518-07:00Memoirs of the "KK" The Kesa Gatame headlockProbably the most successful grappling hold in my arsenal is the "KK" headlock.<br />This is a nickname for a judo hold called kesa gatame.<br />However I learned this hold in "folkstyle" amateur wrestling.<br />The difference being that in judo I would not simply be concerned with gripping the body but also the sleeve. This is probably the most successful hold in my grappling arsenal.<br /> I have pinned men 70lbs heavier than I in matches with this hold. I even scored a pin fall on a high school state champion with this hold. I have tapped out practitioners in Brazilian jujitsu, ninjitsu, judo and a Lion's Den student just before he fought at UFC.<br />It is a simple hold. A headlock which includes an arm. Having your opponent on the ground and laying atop them. It seems sure to be countered, yet it is also sure to accomplish it's task.<br />They key to accomplishing a pin fall or tap out is to understand that the KK is not a still statuesque lock. It is a process.<br /> You have two areas, possibly three points of concentration you can be most potent. The chest, throat and head. You also can smother the mouth. I don't think it is possible to get everything accomplished at once. and yet if you stay at only one area of concentration you will most likely be countered. However, if you master riding your opponent out, victory is inevitable.<br />
To me, the most essential of these areas is atop the chest. You anchor your body by the hold of the collar and elbow. Make sure that you are high on the elbow around the triceps muscle and funny bone. If you pass the elbow towards the forearm, your opponent will escape. Your locking around the head should be under the ear.You should lay your back on the opponents chest. At the minimum, make sure that you have placed your shoulder further than there breast and over the heart. Yet don't want your shoulders passing your opponents opposite arm. At this point bridge with your legs, in order that all your weight focuses squarely on the chest. Your balance will be found in between the grip of the elbow and the bridge on the chest.<br /> Now this is not a pain lock, yet by concentrating your weight, you are supplying a slow suffocation. This takes a little longer to affect and yet it is much faster than you think. If you fail at suffocation entirely, your opponent will begin to weaken which will help over all in accomplishing victory.<br /> You can also roll over and shift your weight to your opponents head. This is useful causing a great deal of pain and discomfort and pressure to the cranium. Yet be careful. This is also the weakest part of the series and is most easy to counter. Because in going for the kill, you have allowed your opponent full range of motion. where they can easily slip out or roll you over. I really prefer not use this technique with the exception of losing the ride anyway and simply having this strategy as a last resort. Or in the case of a weaker opponent using the head crank as a means of intimidation for an early submission.<br />
Smothering the mouth can also be a very intimidating tactic. if your opponent is frightened by the lack of air they will get excited and suffocate quicker. Another tactic you can use is to wrap the arm that you have trapped around there head. these tactics are effective but never forget they are risky. You must not lose your balance over the opponents chest in the process. otherwise you will be countered.<br /> Finally a safer approach is to crank your opponents head toward you as you ride on the chest. This neck crank will accomplish the goal while giving you greater balance.<br />
<div class="_1yr">
<span class="_2oy"></span><span> There are many ways to apply this hold. The key is to acquire a lock from the front of the armpit and neck. Most popular is from a standing position. You acquire the lock and then perform a hip toss.(we will cover that hold later.) Even if on your back, with your opponent on top. you can apply the lock and pull them into a somersault. Keeping hold of the lock and twisting 180degrees you can accomplish a reversal with your self in control of a "KK".</span></div>
<div class="_1yr">
<span>The lock can be escaped if your opponent rolls into you digs his opposite forearm in, bridges his legsand slips his headout. It can also be countered if your opponent pulls into you and hooks your legand rolls you onto your shoulders. It can also be countered if your opponenet pokes your eyes and hooks your head in a figure four head lock. </span></div>
<div class="_1yr">
<span>The key to the first two is maintaining the balance of your back. and using a strong grip on the funnybone while bridging your legs. When your head is attacked roll into your opponent crushing there cranium temporarily until they release. but be careful to roll back quickly to maintain balance and dominance. In a no holds barred situation. you can lock the funny bone with one hand and strike up the nose with the other hand. Just remember that these tactics ust be quick or you will lose your position.</span></div>
<div class="_1yr">
<span> When going through this series, it reminds me that a battle is rarely one single incident, but instead a process.If you have any major battle whether physical, mental, political or spiritual. You have to look at the big picture. You must be ready to complete the process and not be set back by a short term plan.</span></div>
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Pastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-34626895108237491082013-04-26T13:22:00.003-07:002013-04-26T13:22:37.010-07:00should christians get violent?Matthew 5:38Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: <br />
39But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. <br />
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"<em>While it is the divine right of the secular government to wage a “Just War”. It is the duty of Christians to seek peace with all men on principles of righteousness. In accordance with the spirit and teachings of Christ they should do all in their power to put an end to war. The true remedy for the war spirit is the gospel of our Lord. The Supreme need of the world is the acceptance of his teachings in all the affairs of men and nations, and the practical application of His law of love. Christian people throughout the world should pray for the reign of the Prince of peace. </em><br />
<em>Ecclesiastes 3:8, Romans 12:18-19,13:1-4, 14:19, Matthew 5:9,21-26,38-48, 6:33, 26:52 Isaiah 2:4, Luke 22:36, Hebrews 12:14, James 4:1-2"</em> from the freedom baptist church confession of Faith.<br />
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As we read from the scripture and turn our attention to my confession (which is extremely close to the baptist faith and message on in this article) <br />
You may wonder How I can be a martial artist in good conscience and be a practitionaer of martial arts simulatneously? <br />
<br />
While I could start off with a rebuttal and justify squeeking past the principle. Instead I want show why I nevertheless do believe in this principle. <br />
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The gospel is for all mankind. <br />
1 Timothy 4:10 For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe. <br />
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Our war is not against flesh and blood <br />
Ephesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. <br />
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we should not fight out of vengeance <br />
<div class="passage version-KJV result-text-style-normal text-html ">
<span class="text Rom-12-19" id="en-KJV-28265"><sup class="versenum"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Romans 12:19 </span></sup>Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.</span></div>
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However there is a purpose for self defense <br />
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There is a time ecclesiastes 3 <br />
3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; <br />
5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; <br />
8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace. <br />
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And even Jesus advises weapons for self defense.<br />
Luke 22:<span class="text Luke-22-36" id="en-KJV-25901"><sup class="versenum">36 </sup>Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.</span><br />
<span class="text Luke-22-37" id="en-KJV-25902"><sup class="versenum">37 </sup>For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the transgressors: for the things concerning me have an end.</span><br />
<span class="text Luke-22-38" id="en-KJV-25903"><sup class="versenum">38 </sup>And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said unto them, It is enough.</span><br />
<span class="text Luke-22-39" id="en-KJV-25904"><sup class="versenum">39 </sup>And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him.</span><br />
Here we see that the disciples are advised to get weapons for protection. Now the disciples were never told to get weapons at any other time. This is because their lifestyle never required them to protect themselves from attack. Yet when Danger was near christ was responsible to provide them permission for self defense.<br />
<br />
I will probably do a follow up concerning specific apllications, <br />
In christ.<br />
Matt<br />
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<br />Pastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-25770087331881679442013-01-15T13:09:00.001-08:002013-01-15T13:10:06.624-08:00Saving the silvers method. looking at the karate kid3The other night I watched a karate classic. or a classic sequel<br />
<br />
I think what attracted me to this movie was not the terrible plotline. Or the ultimate in high technique karate.<br />
But the strategy that was used by the villain.<br />
As far as plots. I just don't see a millionaire mafia vietnam vet focused on buying a whole chain of karate stores, based on his old buddies failed business. But regardless ;)<br />
He has a very interesting way of handling things with the nemesis Mr. Miyagi and daniel. <br />
He realizes that it would be hard to attack myagi upfront so instead revenge is perpetrated through the young man. First he stalks there house looking for information.<br />
Then he introduces himself as a freind. <br />
He hires a profession fighter to be a thug and intimidate daniel into fighting. Meanwhile myogi feels that managing daniel into competitive fighting would compromise His family philosophy concerning marshal arts.<br />
Steel then swoops in and trains daniel. But he does it in ways that are not productive. He trains Daniel to loose self control. He trains Him in ways that are dangerous and injure daniel.<br />
All to get revenge.<br />
<br />
Now one principle that comes out from this encounter which martial artist. And christians or just moral people in general have to be aware of.<br />
<br />
<strong><u>The defender is always caught off guard.</u></strong><br />
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The innocent person is always some one not looking to harm anyone. So the evil doer is at the opening advantage, able to scout out his opponent and expose his weaknesses.<br />
<br />
one thing that is true in spiritual warfare just as much as in self defense is that the good guy is always surprised or at least caught off guard.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><u>The Offender is always over extending themselves assuming that their power of surprise gives them immunity</u></strong><br />
This is a key aspect to martial arts. Be prepared!<br />
The key to self-defense is surprising those who are surprising you because there defenses are down.<br />
Watch a good fight and the best knock outs take place while the person getting knocked out is in the process of attack.<br />
<br />
This is a lesson for us in forms of spiritual warfare as well. <br />
We are not prepared for the devil in our lives. He has all the time in the world to survey us. But if we have a strong defense, or as Miyagi say "strong root" we will continue to grow and prosper.<br />
<span class="text Eph-6-13" id="en-KJV-29351"><sup class="versenum"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ephesians 6:13 </span></sup>Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.</span>Pastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-52578500474279655032012-12-14T11:25:00.000-08:002012-12-14T11:25:24.662-08:00What really is the ultimate goal of fighting?One major problem in the martial arts world is to nail down a philosophy and ask what the goals are for martial arts.<br />
<br />
The obvious goal in recent years has been self defense. The simple fact is that , martial arts is essential for this scenario. perhaps one may choose a gun over hand to hand training. But either which way, one is in a position where they are forced to fight.<br />
<br />
But really it is not the first cause for fighting skill. Cain killed abel out of murder and not self defense. Probably using techniques acquired when hunting animals is another use. So the ability to produce violence has several applications<br />
<br />
Warring parties no doubt were first offensively minded before they became defensively minded. Otherwise they would have no one to fight ;)<br />
<br />
So you really have to ask yourself why the violence?<br />
<br />
Martial arts as a sport really could be seen back with the ancient greeks and even earlier.<br />
In ancient times to parties would meet and produce to champion warriors to fight to the death. The reason for this was actually rather civilized. The two nations were doing this to avoid a full scale war. that way their wopuld only be one casuality. Without a governing body this was the best possible solution. This scenario is scene in the classic bout of david verses Goliath.<br />
1 Samuel 17<br />
<br />
Yet the modern fight sport is designed not decisions of War but instead for the sake of entertainment. At whic point the only gain is money and fame. These things can become intoxicating to the heart however. 1 Timothy 6:10<br />
<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></sup>For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.<br />
also fame is worldliness 1 john 2:<br />
<span class="text 1John-2-16" id="en-KJV-30567"><sup class="versenum"><span style="font-size: x-small;">16 </span></sup>For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.</span><br />
<span class="text 1John-2-17" id="en-KJV-30568"><sup class="versenum"><span style="font-size: x-small;">17 </span></sup>And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text 1John-2-17">So a christian fighter would need more reason than wealth and fame to participate. Perhaps if his money were going to serve the Lord in ministry for instance.</span><br />
Pastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-51050707472385714052012-09-24T10:07:00.002-07:002012-09-24T10:07:37.329-07:00Going the distance?I just got done watching a classic Boxing bout between Rocky Marciano and and Joe Walcott.
Joe Walcot out weighed Joe by at 20 lbs and was the then current heavyweight champion. And believe me even in the fuzzy film you could tell that Joe wasn't carrying an ounce of fat. In the first round Joe dominated Rocky and even knocked him down for a 5 count. For several rounds Joe looked impenetrable and didn't even blink at Marciano's shots. By the 12th round Marciano lays a no nonsense knock out punch to the tired champion; who then gives up the title.
This begs the question how much attention should be paid to endurance?
Karate has historically trained for the "one step" the instant knock out split second street fight in order to end a situation as quickly as possible. While kung fu was typically more of a marathon style.
I don't know if there is a right answer and I am open to suggestion.
Because on the street you might not want the variable of a long altercation. Yet perhaps the instant knock out is out of your grasp against a certain opponent.Pastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-3295418102345408752012-08-13T10:34:00.005-07:002012-09-07T12:48:36.731-07:00My MMA sport: how I would make it.Would I would want in this martial art sport is a chance for the martial artist to be not only creative but also a challenge to show their total skills on display.<br /><br /><br /><strong>half cage</strong>:As I will state below I do beleive we do not need to be limited by a full cage. But there has to be a scenarion where one can be trapped at some point.<br /><br /><strong>platform drop</strong>:<br /> In a real life situation the fact of a fall may make or break the scenario. what if you fall a distance? What if you fall on a very hard surface?<br /><br /><strong>sumo start</strong>: In a fighting situation most of the time we do not start off with a great deal of space. What can psychologically prepare us for such an instant collision? This is essentially where the nature of the sucker punch comes from.<br /><br /><br /><strong>basic weapons</strong>:The big challenge hear would be whether this can be accomplished by non-lethal means. If it is actually going to kill people i wouldn't have it.<br />I am thinking about the following. <br />1. a bow(rubber padded)<br />2. a stick (rubber padded)<br />3. a rope/scarf<br />4. a spike (wood/rubber)<br />basically it is added a little bit of weight to make it more formidable than a small stick.<br />5. a shield (wood/plastic)<br /> <br /> 2 would be suspended over the cage. perhaps some form of lottery to determine which<br /><br /><br /><br /><strong><strong>stump</strong></strong>: Or padded stool. This gives more creative scenarios in the fight.<br /><br />uniforms: sambo ghee, lighter gloves (lighter than UFC). This will enable competitors with better grips for better slams. I want the gloves lighter to give them more variation with their strikes.<br /><br />victory:<br />knock out: referee does a standing 8 count if free from the body. The referee may also check for signs of unconsciousness, also mangers may throw in the towel.<br />tap out: obviously this would be a tap of the hand or saying a phrase like "I give up!"<br />toss out: If one gets tossed off of the platform. the thrower must be able to stay on the platform simultaneously <br />DQ/throws the towel. If an opponent is disqualified or breaks the rules. or if the manager throws in the towel.<br /><br />no rounds.<br /><br />weight class competition would be available but also there will be an all weights division<br /><br />judgeing is optional.<br />if so judges will be taking scor independently<br />a. striker judge<br />b. submission judge<br />c. position judgePastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-85976356734246674762012-08-07T07:21:00.002-07:002012-08-13T10:31:52.998-07:00MMA is it Ultimate? Now in recent years the sports of mix martial arts have developed and there has been a lot of gain in the martial arts community.<br /> Although the sport known as UFC has had a title that has caused some confusion. There has been some recent rememdy by emphasizing the title MMA or mixed martial arts over "ultimate fighting"<br /><br /><br />why it is not.<br />Ultimate fighting claims to integrate all martial arts. So wouldn't that make it ultimate?<br /><br />one on one: MMA is designed as a sport and not for the streets. If you get in the guard and are in a two on one situation, you are in deep trouble. your arms and legs are trapped and a second opponent can pummel you to death. <br /> <br /><br />no weapons: guns are always an obvious issue. only the best martial artist will handle guns from a short distance and we are forever vulnerable from long distance. Also mma doesn't train you to use a weapon. knives are more deadly in a grappling situation. if your opponent hides a blade, you are as good as dead.<br /> <br /><br />Rounds and judges: The problems are obvious. In Real life you won't necessarily have a bell, to call time out. Also gives fighters the excuse not to learn escapes. <br /><br />growing list of rules. You can't kick someone while they are down. You can't even headbutt!<br /><br />Over time mma has turned more into a sport with less a chance to experiment with vastly different fighting styles. Today we can make a style made purely out of illegal holds in UFC. It is only jujitsus plus kick boxing.<br /><br />Early on we had more of an ideal, but the only style really prepared for it was brazillian jujitsu. Now we have lost what could have been.<br />This does raise a question<br />What is the Ultimate ideal fighting?<br />That I will blog about later!<br /><br />Pastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-77747933525735891862012-07-06T07:47:00.005-07:002012-07-24T12:21:26.189-07:00Sumo of my thoughtsI have been really thinking a lot of the art of sumo wrestling in recent times.<br />It was at one time more deadly than UFC where champions would fight to the death. Though now-a-days appears as an incomplete sport, much less a martial art.<br /><br /><br />pagan origins<br />Sumo like the many martial arts has a religious aspect to it. For instance the salt is a ritualt that emphasizes the white magic of cleansing the ring. As a christian i have to be on guard for deceptive spirits. God has already cleansed my temple and I do not need another spirit prevalent. This is one reason i am glad they are now practicing non-traditonal sumo.<br /><br /><br />stare down<br />On element in sumo wrestling that is not quite as prominent as in other sports is the stare down. Because the start of the match is agreed upon there could be minutes of time devoted to this action. While this psychological technique is not universal there are a lot of real life fights that involve psychology and the ability to intimidate an opponent.<br />In many instances, this could mean everything. I have a lot of experience with this in football.one step can determine the difference of a knock down or being knocked down. It is all about timing and momentum.<br />In a street fight this principle applies with the "sucker punch". If you distract the person you have a split second where you can strike them unprotected.<br />This principle is undeveloped in the sports of Kick boxing and mma. after all the start is agreed to. Also there is space to put up your guard.<br /><br /><br />drop: The end of the sumo fight is significant for street fighting as well. it is with a fall. Now certainly many people can take a fall. However, on the streets a surface may not be easy to land on. what if the tumble is several feet? what if the surface is concrete? So here again we see an advantage in the sumo style.<br /><br />girth and muscle: martial artists tend to emphasize a softer style, trying not to exert a great deal of energy. But sometimes we need to be prepared to engaged in the hard style of combat. In a street fight situation the element of surprise destroys our ability to concentrate. softstyles are honestly based in the use of concentration. I have seen many sports bouts with aikido practioners for instance where they either loose or become extremely sloppy because all of their skills were based off of their concentration. <br /><br />pushing: a lot of times little is said outside of wrestling on the issue movement.many in the grappling world enamored with submissions have also left an understanding. when standing your balanace and position effect everything you do. a good shove can easily destablilize your opponent. So why not go for it?<br /><br />so these are benefits to look for when researching ths sacred sport God bless :)Pastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-87143878626629423302012-05-14T12:18:00.003-07:002012-06-25T09:02:49.629-07:00Thoughts on wrestling and clothingOne issue that has fascinated me this last year in my martial art studies is clothing.<br /><br />We see this most implemented in the sport of judo. In this grappling art the Judo practioner has an extra thick, extra strong Ghee uniform for grappling and throwing.<br /><br />As a wrestler I started off with the mentality to shy away from any extra appendages. <br /><br />Yet more often than not in a real altercation clothes are involved.<br />now cloth may be weak and useless but it may also be useful for the purpose of strangling. If loose you may use your own as a weapon.(Indian martial arts have mastered this in the use of a scarf) And finally judo and on a smaller level sumo have mastered grabbing clothes as an anchor for a slam.(other styles of wrestling do this as well including the korean yudo and the mongolian boke. look around for ancient styles of wrestling, they would likely include a uniform.)<br /><br />The reason you find greater slams in judo as compared to wrestling is because of this fact. A good grip can give you that leaverages need to send your opponent flying. in fact the better the slam in real life the quicker the fight could end.<br /><br />Researching I found that cornish style wrestling is really amazing in this respect. wearing a medieval blouse the wrestlers slowly tug at the clothe until they achieve WWE style body slams!<br /><br />I still think it is better(and less expensive! to grapple without clothes and master that first. But every advantage on the street is needed and it just can't hurt to improve your arsenal!Pastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-8299445330846116822012-03-19T11:20:00.005-07:002012-04-18T11:34:44.559-07:00a punchers chance: thoughts on boxingYou know it can be one of the most deadly weapons of combat and so simple a baby does it.<br />The punch. Today I honestly don't have time to cover all hand techniques even the whole sport of boxing but I have a couple thoughts.<br />Boxing started as a greek event being a fight to the death on many occaisions so I count it as a Martial art.<br />originally gloves were used as metallic weapons.<br /><br />In medeival Europe the discipline developed using techniques acquired from fencing.<br />The leading hand would be a sensor anticipating the first blow and respond with a jab.<br /><br />a really good resource I found was on www.youtube.com under the channel kilogulf59<br />It appears to be mostly dedicated to close quarters combat. but if you search for "bare knuck boxing" maybe ad "strategy" and it should come up.<br />This focuses on the boxing style of the 1800's what about the rules of the game that made this style so drastically different from the modernday sport?<br /><br /> Rules that change the outcome came in the form of round limits, gloves, even smal novelties such as vaseline. These would play in the role of changing the sport. Also, the old style of boxing was originally designed for street fighting. For instance the hands are lower in anticipation of kicks or a weapon.<br />Also in striking the top of the head can wound the hands. So the offense will naturally be aimed lower.<br /><br />Now boxing has advantages over other training methods. The heavy contact leads to a high emphases on conditioning. Also it prepares a fighter for the scenario of fighting injured. Not to mention how to take an opponent down systematically and what combinations are most effective.<br />One blow that is somewhat unique to boxing is the uppercut. You really don't see much use in other arts except for maybe kick boxing, mma or possible football. (at least the way I played! ;) )<br />I think because of the emphases on planting your feet. It is limited in it's ability to adapt defesively. yet it is so effective offensive it really does make up for that.<br />They are the best in the world at bobbing and weaving. A lot of times in fight the emphases is on the block. However dodgeing a blow eliminates all injury.<br />Obviously boxing can be a much longer topic that i can give justice to. But in summary boxing is very valuable in working on hand strikes and conditioning through a fight. The limitations are obvious with the lack grappling and kicks. I encourage people to study bare knuckle more.<br />But you always stand the puncher's chance!Pastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-47528600380379281402012-02-25T08:16:00.005-08:002012-03-12T11:54:24.569-07:00a martial artists reaction to entertainmentThe month or so ago I was helping a high school wrestling team train. We were going over moves, I started thinking about the world of sports entertainment. Many of the moves that you see in WWE are not legitamite moves, but instead they are exaggerations of what we see in armature wrestling. The real holds are less flashy or even barely visible.<br />Then I watched a jean Claude van dam movie. Honestly jean Claude looks less like a kick boxer and more like a ballerina!<br />Many martial artists get angry at the mention of sports entertainment.<br />They say "that's fake!" or "I could take him"<br /><br />They feel as if they have had their fighting religions blasphemed!<br />But I feel that they have missed the old motto.<br />"imitation is the sincerest form of flattery."<br />any good salesman has to be use exaggeration to sell the product.<br />To advance any martial art, you wantto have more practitioners to make more competition.<br />and keep some teachers employed.<br />A former master instructor of mine remarked how sales would go up when movies like "the karate kid" or "tmnt" were popular.<br /> <br />For instance amature wrestling and even old pro-wrestling was way to Hard on Hulk Hogan for bringing theatrics to the squared circle. I think making the disconnect hurt the real sport from advancing.<br />Honestly I was a little "hulkamaniac" and yes that did inspire me to take up amature wrestling.<br /><br />I think Kung fu people have been smart not to be critical of wushu and jackie chan. You need good advertisement.<br /><br />This works in other areas too. like video rock and rollers with classical music. Rocky with boxing and the harlem globe trotters with basketball.<br /><br /><br />Every great cowboy needs a rodeo clown!Pastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-8297190921115803002012-02-25T08:15:00.005-08:002012-03-05T12:41:22.639-08:00A christian understanding of chiOne issue of controversy for christians in martial arts specifically eastern martials arts is the concept of chi or ki. These martial arts based in zen Buddhist philosophy do not limited their art ot the physical realm but also include mystical or esoteric concepts.<br /><br />So what is chi?(qui,ki)<br /><br />"In traditional Chinese culture, qì (also chi or ch'i) is an active principle forming part of any living thing.[1][2][3] Qi is frequently translated as life energy, lifeforce, or energy flow. Qi is the central underlying principle in traditional Chinese medicine and martial arts. The literal translation of "qi" is breath, air, or gas." <strong>wikipedia</strong> "Qui"<br /><br /> After first researching this concept, a lightbulb went off in my head.<br /><br />"Pneuma (πνεύμα) is an ancient Greek word for "breath," and in a religious context for "spirit" or "soul." It has various technical meanings for medical writers and philosophers of classical antiquity, particularly in regard to physiology, and is also used in Greek translations of the Hebrew Bible and in the Greek New Testament. In classical philosophy, it is distinguishable from psyche (ψυχή), which originally meant "breath of life", but is regularly translated as "spirit" or most often "soul".[1] wikipedia "pneuma"<br /><br />spirt, energy, breath. These concepts are basically the same!<br /> So can the Bible use the word spirit in terms of energy?<br /><br />Joshua 5:1And it came to pass, when all the kings of the Amorites, which were on the side of Jordan westward, and all the kings of the Canaanites, which were by the sea, heard that the LORD had dried up the waters of Jordan from before the children of Israel, until we were passed over, that their heart melted, neither was there spirit in them any more, because of the children of Israel.<br /> Here we spirit being used in the sense a depression or lack of energy. <br /><br />Judges 15:19But God clave an hollow place that was in the jaw, and there came water thereout; and when he had drunk, his spirit came again, and he revived: wherefore he called the name thereof Enhakkore, which is in Lehi unto this day.<br /> What is interesting about this verse is that Samsons life force/spirit is being renewed after a battle where the Holy Spirit empowered him to Kill <br />a thousand men with the jawbone of a mule.<br /><br />2 Kings 2:9 And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me.<br /><br /><br /> This a rather bizarre section. Because Elisha is asking for a double portion of Elijah's spirit. This sounds pantheistic. However the context shows the he is talking about inheritance. He gave up his inheritance in order to inherit Elijah's announcing. But basically Elisha ia asking for a double portion of his anointing. Elijah had a powerful quality to his spirit that Elisha stood to obtain.<br /><br />Now this topic can split off into two other future topics. So I won't cover these points exhaustively.<br /><br />First, is the fact that eastern philosophy(pantheism) is not incorrect as to the existence of chi, the Problem is that the east fails to understand God. <br /> <br /> The confusion of God and nature is the source of pagan idolotry. The true God of the Bible is Holy, which means set apart. He transcends the universe. <br />But eastern mystics assume that the universe is god. God is worthy of glory honor worship and praise. It if it is not going to him as a person, then where is it going?<br /> I have notticed some yoga instructors talk about taking in god as they breath. So idolatry is being conducted as they are building up their chi!<br />This is spiritually hazardous because idolatry can lead to the demonic.<br /><br />Deuteronomy 32:17<br /> 17They sacrificed unto devils, not to God; to gods whom they knew not, to new gods that came newly up, whom your fathers feared not<br /><br />So this is indeed spiritually dangerous. But I find a situation very similar to Paul in His meat sacrificed before idols discourse.<br /><br />1 corinthians 8:1Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. <br /> 2And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know. <br /> 3But if any man love God, the same is known of him. <br /> 4As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one. <br /> 5For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) <br /> 6But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. <br /> <br /> So I don't have to resort to the errors of pantheism in order to take advantage of the truths regarding KI/chi<br /><br />Now later in the passage Paul does warn about causing others to stumble with our knowledge. Should you as an instructer encourage non-christians to meditate in a zen buddhist fashion, just because you will not be commiting idolatry personally? That would not be wise. But if you know that the group you are in is christian and understands what you are doing, or you are alone there is no harm in it.<br />One apologist put it best,"It's not like they invented breathing!"<br /><br />The second point is that the Bible tells us more about the human spirit. The human spirit is described more in terms of psychology and morality. When we build up our spirits we may want to put more emphases as martial artist upon our moral states as well. it is also good to meditate upon the gospels so that by finding the peace which passes all understanding we will be prepared for anything.<br /><br />In Christ,<br /><br />MattPastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-91025822201043807322012-02-25T08:12:00.002-08:002012-02-25T09:19:52.765-08:00art, sport, science what?I think a key issue in the conversation that we have been missing, at least in the mainstream is proper definitions.<br /><br />What is a martial art?<br /><br />I define it in the looses terms imaginable. where it is the practice of anything military in nature as a discipline. lets look at a dictionary.<br /><br />mar·tial /ˈmɑrʃəl/ Show Spelled[mahr-shuhl] Show IPA <br />adjective <br />1. inclined or disposed to war; warlike: The ancient Romans were a martial people. <br />2. of, suitable for, or associated with war or the armed forces: martial music. <br />3. characteristic of or befitting a warrior: a martial stride. <br /><br />art1 /ɑrt/ Show Spelled[ahrt] Show IPA <br />noun <br />1. the quality, production, expression, or realm, according to aesthetic principles, of what is beautiful, appealing, or of more than ordinary significance. <br />2. the class of objects subject to aesthetic criteria; works of art collectively, as paintings, sculptures, or drawings: a museum of art; an art collection. <br />3. a field, genre, or category of art: Dance is an art. <br />4. the fine arts collectively, often excluding architecture: art and architecture. <br />5. any field using the skills or techniques of art: advertising art; industrial art. <br /><br />I think we could could combine martial with the 3rd definition and art with definition 1 and 3. fusing them int this...<br /><br /> An expression of warlike principles made appealing and benefitting the warrior with more than ordinary significance.<br /> What about sports?<br /><br />sport /spɔrt, spoʊrt/ Show Spelled[spawrt, spohrt] Show IPA <br />noun <br />1. an athletic activity requiring skill or physical prowess and often of a competitive nature, as racing, baseball, tennis, golf, bowling, wrestling, boxing, hunting, fishing, etc. <br />2. a particular form of this, especially in the out of doors. <br />3. diversion; recreation; pleasant pastime. <br />4. jest; fun; mirth; pleasantry: What he said in sport was taken seriously. <br />5. mockery; ridicule; derision: They made sport of him. <br /><br /> Basically I think it is obvious that the first definition is the subject.<br />I also find it consistent that a sport may be an expression of war like principles. These two concepts (sports and martial arts are can be the same and not the same)<br /><br />They are the same when the expression of warlike principles is an atheletic activity. But if they are independent of this then they are not.<br /><br />Some martial artists restrict the idea to hand to hand combat, or killing, or even restrict it to those who include eastern mysticism. <br /><br />But I think this is a consistent meaning for martial arts.<br />For instance I understand american football to be a martial arts sport. many martial artist would laught at this. Yet they would revear bushido, which understands sitting down with a gigantic long bo as a martial art. As if we always have such a long bow and they would be ready if one of the new york Giants was attacking them from the side! LOL<br /><br />Football should be defined as a matial arts sport because it primarily teaches you military skills in working with a team. secondly it teaches you fighting skills with a helmut and gives you some limited hand to hand techniques. Not to mention that the training prepares you for a fight.<br /><br />But what of science?<br />sci·ence /ˈsaɪəns/ Show Spelled[sahy-uhns] Show IPA <br />noun <br />1. a branch of knowledge or study dealing with a body of facts or truths systematically arranged and showing the operation of general laws: the mathematical sciences. <br />2. systematic knowledge of the physical or material world gained through observation and experimentation. <br />3. any of the branches of natural or physical science. <br />4. systematized knowledge in general. <br />5. knowledge, as of facts or principles; knowledge gained by systematic study. <br /><br />A lot of modern military groups like to think of their figting systems as a science. and of course muhammad ali would refer to boxing as a sweet science.<br />Science definitely has plenty of use in martial arts. basic priniciples of kinesthesiology and biology are of great use, as well as physics.<br /><br />The difficulty with defining martial arts actually as a science in itself is the fact there is no truly solid empirical data. Fighting is an extremely subjective thing. If it could be a science it would be a very soft science. When you deal with fighting you have different environments, different attackers, different weapons, different defenders, different social circumstances. It is incredibly subjective and you can not ground very much in universal fact.<br /><br />The best you can hope for is philosophical principles. Of course theology interacts with philosophy and so that's why I feel this blog should have some success! ;)Pastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536786163702550718.post-91634761815498511752012-02-23T11:56:00.002-08:002012-02-23T12:13:14.584-08:00a lil about myselfHi my name is Matt Singleton<br /><br />I am a Christian martial artist.<br />I am ordained minister with 2 theological degrees. <br />my martial arts back ground<br />A. I have a 1st degree black belt in tae kwon do. I have won first and second place in various sparring tournaments. <br />B. I am an accomplished amature wrestler. As a high school wrestler I won several tournaments in light heavyweight and heavyweight classes. I also helped train wrestlers in 3 different high schools.<br />C. I have a few years training in submission wrestling/mma. strictly practice. Yet I have been able to tap out several opponents from backgrounds such as brazillian jujitsu, ninjitsu, Lion's den, judo etc. <br />D. I also have some experience in tai chi, 5 animal shaolin kung fu, monkey style kung fu, kempo.<br />E. I have borrwed some techniques and studied a vast array of other arts. ( extensive library)<br /><br />So in this blog I want to write my views on martial arts as well as add some insights into the worldview, philosophy and ethics of today's fighter. Feel free to comment!Pastor Matt Singletonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10479117288984518376noreply@blogger.com0