Karate Class, Against the Odds

There was some question as to whether or not we’d have karate class. It had been a few weeks since we’d gone, what with the holidays and all, and nobody really lets us know if they are coming to class. With this in mind, we can’t really hold it against the senseis to show up when they have such busy schedules, though for the record, my heart always sinks when CH calls an hour or two before class, because I know it means one thing - he ain’t coming.

In a few instances, I’ve had to run the class, which I’m not so keen on, but can pull off. I know enough to run the show, but would never take it on willingly. Last class, I got that dreaded phone call. On a bright note, since I relinquished the keys to the dojo, I can’t really be expected to run class because only three people can open the door. Master H, sensei C, and NS, another black belt. What this means is that a higher belt will be there, so they can over see instruction. Doesn’t that work out beautifully?

This past week, A started her drawing class, which runs until right before karate. We worked it out so I would drop A off, then take N to his drum lesson, which this week I forgot to go to, but that’s another issue. R would pick A up after drawing and bring her to karate and meet up with N and I. Then R would take N home for supper and A and I would do karate. How’s that for completely insane?

Either way, as I mentioned, CH called and said he couldn’t make it, but that Master H had a key. When we arrived, nobody was there, and there was some question as to whether or not we would have class. When Master H showed up, he said he didn’t have a key, so our last hope was for NS to show, but he rarely comes, so fat chance. At that point, I had set my mind on canceling, and was ready to go home and eat. To her credit, A really wanted to have class, so I didn’t say anything. Also, I felt bad, because Master H comes a fair distance just to be there.

Two more students showed up, and Master H went on a mission. He drove over to the store to see if anyone knew anyone with a key, and if you can believe it, he found one. He somehow managed to track down CH’s daughter, who called home and had her brother bring CH’s key to the dojo. Pretty amazing, and testament to perseverance. We had a short class, but it felt good to be back, and I think A had a good time. Often the small classes are the ones you get a lot out of, especially with Master H.

Just wanted to close by saying we really appreciate all that Master H and CH do. Until the next time, thanks for reading, and thanks to Kriss Szkurlatowski for the pic.