Michael Green – Samurai of Compassion
It was around this same time that I founded the Integrated Martial Arts Academy as a non-profit incorporated association within the community. This remained like this for many years until I eventually decided to combine what I had learnt through Youth Support work with what I had developed through being a Martial Arts practitioner. This is how the Integrated Development Academy came about as being a synthesis of the inner principles of Martial Arts training in conjunction with a system of personal development connected to the virtues of the heart and also anything that relates to the Health, WellBeing and Harmony of Mind, Body and Emotions.
My vision for all of the Integrated Academy students is to provide them with a safe environment in which they feel a strong sense of mutual respect, love and support. The purpose of the integrated classes is to provide an opportunity for each participant to develop themselves as unique individuals and also together with others through positive unity and generative sharing.
OMTimes: Name at least one element that you believe is vital to teach the young generation about the true way of the heart and the use of Martial arts?
One of the main things I see as being absolutely vital is to help the young generation to be filled with inspiration and to also have the courage to live from their hearts with truth and respect towards themselves and others. Throughout the classes I encourage each student to see themselves as part of an interconnected family of the cosmos and to recognize each day as a sacred opportunity of life. Their journey within the Integrated Martial Arts/Development Academy is simply a symbolic catalyst for them to remember what they already know deep inside their hearts and souls.
I feel that it is very important to support the young generation in the process of developing the inner confidence and understanding that may empower them to become leaders on a pathway of positive development and unity, instead of potentially following on a trail of destruction and separation. One of the best quotes regarding this was from Gandhi when he said… “We must Be the change that we wish to see in the world.”
