We hope that in the months to come you will find your relationship with the ACADEMY OF SELF-DEFENSE educational, enjoyable, and enduring. Kung-Fu is much more than self-defense. It is an art that extends far beyond its visible fighting techniques. ACADEMY OF SELF-DEFENSE members also develop mental and moral characteristics such as:

These are the hidden values of Kung-Fu, the unseen qualities that lead one to a happier and fuller life. As a student of the ACADEMY OF SELF-DEFENSE, we hope that Kung-Fu will gradually become your way of life.

We must caution you that Kung-Fu is "not Instant". The word Kung-Fu does in fact mean "Skill achieved through hard work". Becoming proficient in Martial Arts requires diligent study and much practice. It is "not easy"; it is "not quick"; and it is certainly "not Instant".

The first factor, Natural Ability, determines how quickly an individual can learn. The slower learner need not be discouraged because the second factor is Patience. The third factor, Instruction, is our responsibility. Given time, patience, and proper instruction, even the slowest learner can become proficient in Kung-Fu. This ancient Confucian saying tells one how to achieve success.

"If you cannot perform that which has been studied, do not consider the matter ended. If another man achieves success with one effort, use ten. If another succeeds with a hundred efforts, use a thousand. By persevering in this way, even the slow of mind can become intelligent....... and a weak man can become strong."

So let us say once again, "Welcome" to a world of hard work. A world that is ancient yet very much alive.