EE FR
January 29, 2015 • mccsokinawa.com
okinawalivingweekly Birthplace of Karate
Clockwise from the top right: MCCS, metcalf/bigstock.com
Military Saves
M
A
fter the invasion, and subsequent defeat, of the Ryukyu Kingdom at the hands of the Satsuma clan of southern Japan, the use of weapons was forbidden to commoners. Because the people of Okinawa couldn’t carry edged weapons such as swords or knives, they used their bodies, minds and spirits to resist. This indomitable spirit was supplemented with a secret martial art, which was first known as the “Chinese Hand,” and subsequently became known as “karate.” Today this art has developed into a form of personal protection against violence throughout the world and is also used as a tool by to master oneself. While modern-day karate has evolved into many different forms with different philosophies, many maintain the art’s original core values. Some of these include the de-emphasis of the acquisition of rank, a
inside
tendency to shun sport karate traditions such as scoring and heavy emphasis on mastering kata forms instead of searching for foes to test. In karate, there is no such thing as a pre-emptive attack, and almost all kata in traditional Okinawan karate begin with a defensive movement. Legendary karate master Kanga Sakugawa was once quoted as saying: “Karate teaches us that the best form of self-defense is to avoid the fight altogether…this proves that karate is the art of a wise man.” This not only epitomizes the spirit of karate, but it also reflects the spirit of Okinawa. While you’re on Okinawa, take advantage of the many martial arts classes offered by MCCS Semper Fit. Various classes are offered islandwide; call your local fitness center for class availability and schedules.
Living at Large: Dive Deeper | 3 Ryan vs. Courtney: Word Origins | 5 Japanese Phrase of the Week | 5 Off Base Events: Cherry Blossom Festival | 7
CCS Military Saves is an ongoing campaign for the military community to focus on financial readiness and to encourage military families to start saving money every month. Regardless of whether saving for a home, children’s college, retirement or emergencies, it is important to take consistent action over time and to pay yourself first—on time and every month. After identifying financial goals, explore savings vehicles that serve your specific financial needs. Possibilities include savings accounts, money market accounts, certificates of deposit, individual retirement accounts, mutual funds, stocks and 401(k)s. In addition to the regularly scheduled Personal Financial Management Program workshops, the Marine and Family Programs–Resources will further promote the Military Saves Campaign with additional workshops on the Thrift Savings Plan and Basic Savings in February. For more information about saving, investing and financial readiness, contact your local MFP–R Center.
Photo of the Week | 7 Spotlight: Share Your Love | 9 Movie Schedule | 11 Health Tip of the Week | 11