Shorin-ryu Karate School

No one showed up for the 5:30 PM class so I’m closing the dojo early.
Will return for tomorrow morning classes.

Japan's government will hold a ceremony on Nov. 22 to mark restoration work being completed on Shuri Castle's main hall in Okinawa Prefecture, which burned down in 2019.

What Karate Becomes Over Time Over time, karate becomes about far more than self-defense.

Some students are enthusiastic about kata; others are not, but they still practice it. What stands out is the number of people who refuse to admit that “karate” doesn’t mean mindless repetition of “meaningless forms.” This isn’t true if you’re training at a reputable dojo.

Why Kata Exists Understanding kata as a method of preserving knowledge changes how you see karate.

I do not know who originally wrote this:
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Saw this quote today:

Karate doesn’t struggle because it lacks power—it struggles because it demands patience in a world addicted to shortcuts. Where most people chase fast results, visible muscles, or instant competition, karate quietly asks for something harder: discipline without applause, repetition without excitement, and progress that often feels invisible. Many walk in expecting action and leave when they meet structure—stances, basics, etiquette—mistaking depth for slowness. Unlike trend-driven fitness or high-adrenaline sports, karate builds from the inside out, shaping character before showcasing skill, and that’s a trade fewer people are willing to commit to. In a culture that celebrates quick wins, karate remains stubbornly loyal to mastery—and mastery has never been crowded.

The obituary of Giles–sensei. His wife, Cherie, provided this to be shared.

Obituary for Robert Edward Giles | Memorial Alternatives Celebrate the life of Robert Giles and join others in sharing memories, stories, and condolences.

The aim should not be to “win”—the goal is not to lose.
Getting back home; protecting your loved ones, should be what matters.

The 90% Ground Fighting Myth Why we need to stop training for restraint and start training for escape.

It is with great sadness and respect that we share the news of the passing of Giles-Sensei.
He always brought such joy and livelihood to the dojo. Be in peace, sensei. We will miss you.

Congratulations to the Spring 2026 testing Karateka for Shōdan and above, (and those who assisted and attended.) They did a great job—especially given the little bit of “old way” stress thrown their way by Estrada–Sensei. (It was fantastic to see/hear that he is still doing that, and I'm happy to be on the other side of the table when it happens. 😉.)

*My apologies for not remembering to get the photo until nearly everyone changed out of their dōgi.