Michigan Hero Essay

By Becky O.

In every person, a fire burns. Their flames are their essence, their central being. Some burn bright, so bright, that they touch the lives of others around them. The ones that have touched my life are Master Jose and Master Lisa. They are my heroes.

When I first started doing martial arts four years ago, I didn't know much about Master Jose and Master Lisa. I knew that they were the instructors and owners of the karate school, and that they were friendly. Over the years, they have taught me so much, and I am still learning today.

You wouldn’t think karate masters have average daily jobs, but they do. They both work at full time, yet they still manage to be at the karate school nearly every day of the week, ready to teach us. If somebody wants to learn, they will teach them, even though it can be frustrating and difficult at times.

Don’t get the wrong idea. Karate isn’t only about kicking and punching. Master Jose and Master Lisa place a strong emphasis on the mental part of martial arts. Focus, awareness, and respect are continuously displayed. Since I practice them so often in class, these concepts become reality in my daily life.

Master Jose and Master Lisa have slightly different styles of teaching, and being able to learn from both helps immensely. It wouldn’t be complete without both of them working with each other to help us. Together, they teach me teamwork.

Our martial arts school has volunteered time to help the community. We do assemblies for Elementary schools about how kids should respect teachers, others, and themselves. Free workshops have been offered to Scout Troops, including mine and my sister’s. They have self defense seminars for protecting ourselves from harm, and have even done classes about how to deal with bullies.

I have seen firsthand the effects of their dedication to individuals. Not only have they made a good impression on my life, they have made huge changes in others. For example, one student first came into the school for one of the classes about how to not be bullied. When I first met him, he seemed timid. He decided to join our school and take classes. Because of the Joses’ guidance, he is different now. His confidence has grown and I always see him smiling and laughing. It makes me happy to know that they are not only heroes to me, but to others as well.

I am so proud to be a part of their school. They have made such an impact on me and how I think. I feel fortunate to live in Michigan, because I am surrounded by such wonderful people like Master Jose and Master Lisa. They are my Michigan heroes.