Much is Given and Much is Expected

Growing up in the U.S. can be a wonderful thing because the sky is the limit for our dreams and goals. However, this wonderful opportunity has a sticky flip-side because if we don’t try hard we appear lazy and spoiled.

In childhood our proud parents often praise us. How often have you heard “you’re very intelligent,” or “you can do anything that you set your mind to”? Well if those things are true, does it reflect poorly on us if we don’t work hard to achieve our goals?

Yes, it does. Here’s why.

There are severely disadvantaged people here in the U.S. and abroad who have far fewer opportunities than many of us enjoy. In fact, some disadvantaged people are unable to attend school because they cannot afford tuition and others can’t even find work because there are no jobs. Notwithstanding, many disadvantaged people achieve greater success than is achieved by people who do not suffer disadvantage.

So, when we meet a successful person who was once disadvantaged, most of us are either inspired or embarrassed. Inspiration comes from understanding that we can overcome nearly any obstacle when we work hard. Embarrassment comes from the stark realization that our efforts to achieve our dreams have been mediocre.

In sum, if one works hard, his chances of achieving success are as good or better in the U.S. than anywhere else in the world. So, it’s both a great advantage and a burden to be a young person in the U.S. because to those to whom much is given, much is expected.

Seichou Karate® challenges and provides teenagers with the confidence to make the most of every opportunity that this great nation offers. OSU!