Wrapping Up Courtesy

Wrapping Up Courtesy

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 have developed this curriculum to meet the needs of our youngest students who are three or four, and our oldest student who is 86.

This month we’re talking about courtesy — what it means and how we show it in everyday life.

Our True Character definition is:
“I am respectful, kind, and use my manners.”
That’s courtesy in a nutshell — how we treat other people.

Throughout the month, we’ve discussed what courtesy looks like. We’ve talked about showing respect, being kind, and using our manners — from waiting our turn in line at the grocery store to raising our hand in class or offering an apology when needed.

Those are the obvious examples, but there are also some smaller, often-overlooked ways we can show courtesy every day.

Introducing Yourself

One simple but powerful act of courtesy is introducing yourself.

Here at the studio, we practice this through what we call a powerful greeting. When students pair up to work together, they start by introducing themselves. Then they switch partners and do it again.

This builds confidence and helps them understand that when you meet someone new — whether at a new school, a new job, or anywhere else — it’s polite and respectful to introduce yourself and create a connection.

We also encourage them to learn something small about the other person, like their favorite ice cream flavor or what school they attend. It’s a great way to build community through kindness.

The Power of Eye Contact and Clear Communication

Making eye contact, speaking clearly, and offering a handshake are all forms of courtesy.

I like to joke sometimes that kids start talking while staring at the floor, and I’ll say, “Honey, you’re talking to the floor — can you talk to me instead?” It gets a smile, but it also reminds them that looking up and engaging directly with someone shows respect and confidence — without embarrassment or criticism.

That’s courtesy in action: being respectful, kind, and attentive to others.

The Courtesy in Apologizing

Another important part of courtesy is owning our mistakes. Saying “I’m sorry” — and meaning it — shows respect for others and accountability for our actions.

Sometimes students tell me, “They were mean to me,” or “They didn’t hold the door,” or “They didn’t say thank you.” And yes, those moments can feel frustrating. But courtesy gives us tools to handle them with grace.

If someone forgets to say thank you, you can respond with a warm “You’re welcome.” If someone doesn’t hold the door, you can hold it for them instead.

It’s not about calling them out — it’s about reminding them kindly and modeling good behavior.

Granting Grace

We’re all human. People get distracted, tired, or lost in thought. When someone forgets their manners, we can choose to respond with patience instead of frustration.

That’s part of what makes courtesy so powerful — it’s not just about the words we say, but the understanding we show.

We can use these moments to reflect:

• “Maybe they didn’t see me.”
• “They’re having a bad day.”
• “I can remember to be more patient next time.”

Courtesy helps us practice empathy and self-awareness, not just politeness.

Leading by Example

At the end of the day, courtesy is about showing respect, being kind, and using our manners — even when others don’t.

And sometimes, it means granting a little grace, remembering that we all make mistakes, and teaching through our actions.

That’s what we strive for every day here at True Balance Karate — on the mat and beyond.

Thanks, and I’ll 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!