Life today is not so different from the time in which Karate evolved as a method of self preservation. There are many challenges, and they are not always predictable. Meeting and surviving the confrontations of today's world requires focus and concentration--the ability not to be influenced to our disadvantage. To ward off the negative and strengthen the positive requires that we have a strong core, that we know who we are and are capable of moving with certainty. Every aspect of Karate training is designed to develop self-awareness. Mastery of karate basics creates will and endurance. The instructor measures the student¹s karate by the development of these qualities. The underlying imperative of traditional karate instruction is to create a mindset capable of withstanding attack and prevailing against seemingly insurmountable odds -- living each day to our full potential.