I feel fortunate to be surrounded by many people who truly care about each other and are still chasing their dreams. Dreams and the will to follow them, I believe, keep us going regardless of whether life is good or bad.

Like Mark, I had many dreams. Serving my country in the Navy, serving my community as a police officer in Los Angeles, being a man who serves his family, owning a pool hall and being a pro billiards player. It would take too long to list all of them, but among my dreams one stands out and has recently become a reality.

Having my own martial arts school. I used to think it was an endeavor that could only be accomplished on my own. I’m happy to say I was wrong. I am more than fortunate to have a great partner, who shares my dream of serving our fellow disciples and that West Side is about more than just fighting.

We are also fortunate to have a new instructor, Mike Larson, who also shares our vision…we serve ourselves by serving our students.

I am not religious, in fact, I’m more of Militant Atheist. Yet, I feel blessed that some of my dreams have come true.

I have another dream. Last night we lost one of our students to the Marine Corps. This young man exemplifies the true demeanor of a martial artist. Though he hails from another land, he will serve our country as an Officer in one of this countries oldest military traditions. I feel honored to call him a fellow disciple and I feel honored to have served him in the Zen Keiro Ryu. He will be missed by everyone and we anticipate his safe return. Our love is truly with him and my dream is that Igor and others like him, will return home home safely, without shedding blood or shedding their own.

I also dream that we as a nation see through the political elite’s lie’s and demand an end to the bloodshed in the middle east. That, is a lofty dream…but I hope it comes true.

Igor…Semper Fidelis, brother.