Being Respectful and Kind
Being Respectful and Kind
Here at True Balance Karate in Downers Grove, Illinois, we have a social emotional learning program called True Character.
I’m Master H, the owner and chief instructor here at the studio. I have two master’s degrees in education, and we’ve developed this curriculum to meet the needs of our youngest student who is three or four, and our oldest student who is 86.
This month we’re talking about being courteous—and what it really means to live out that idea every day.
In our True Character program, we define courtesy as:
“I am respectful, kind, and use my manners.”
Next week, we’ll focus on manners, but this week, our focus is on the first two parts—being respectful and demonstrating kindness—and how they work together to create true courtesy.
What Respect Looks Like
When we talk about respect, we start with simple, everyday situations. If someone is talking and you want to say something, what’s the respectful thing to do? Stand quietly, smile, listen, and wait for the right moment to respond. That’s courtesy in action—taking turns, paying attention, and showing that you value what others have to say.
Respect also shows up in those moments that test our patience—like waiting in line at the grocery store. We all know the feeling of wanting to get home quickly, especially when the line seems to move at a snail’s pace. But we can’t throw a tantrum or roll our eyes. Instead, we take a deep breath, wait our turn, and remember that everyone else wants to get moving too. Practicing patience is one of the best ways to show respect for others.
Respect in Competition
Courtesy and respect are especially important in competition. We all enjoy winning—it’s a great feeling—but how we handle losing says even more about our character.
My son wrestles, and at the end of every match—win or lose—he’s expected to shake his opponent’s hand, then the coach’s hand. That simple gesture is an act of courtesy and respect. It shows maturity, humility, and the willingness to learn from every experience.
Here at the studio, we teach the same thing during tournaments. Winning feels great, but if you don’t win, what did you learn? How can you grow from the experience? Showing respect for your opponent and appreciation for the opportunity to improve is a key part of martial arts—and of life.
Respect and Kindness Go Hand in Hand
When we’re kind, we’re also being respectful. Courtesy shows up in small, everyday actions—shaking someone’s hand, greeting others with a smile, giving up your turn, or showing patience when someone else needs extra time.
Respect and kindness go hand in hand. Together, they form the foundation of courtesy—and they help us create a more positive and caring environment wherever we go.
As we continue exploring courtesy this month, we’ll keep learning how respect, kindness, and manners all connect to help us grow into thoughtful, responsible, and caring martial artists.
See you on the mat!
True Balance Karate was founded in 2012 by Master Sue and Paul Helsdon.
We offer kids karate lessons for pre-school children ages 3-6 and elementary age kids ages 7 and up. These lessons are designed to develop the critical building blocks kids need — specialized for their age group — for school excellence and later success in life.
Our adult martial arts training is a complete adult fitness and conditioning program for adults who want to lose weight, get (and stay) in shape, or learn self-defense in a supportive environment.
Instructors can answer questions or be contacted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 630-663-2000. You can also contact us here. True Balance Karate is at 406 Ogden Ave Downers Grove Illinois, 60515 (next to CVS) Check out our Facebook!