Back in May 2025, I sat down with my editor David Moore here in Perth to talk through a new project we’ve been working on. It’s called The Lost Scrolls of Ryukyu, and while the title hints at something ancient and mysterious, the real story is about Karate—how it evolved, how it was shaped in resistance to the Japanese Empire, and how we might retell that journey through historical fiction.
The snippet we filmed is twelve minutes long, but it captures both of us bouncing ideas, challenging each other, and trying to talk about a narrative that respects martial tradition while exploring new creative ground.
That week, apart from other things, we talked about:
What Breaking Through revealed about Bassai Dai kata and practical bunkai
The strengths and contrasts between hard style and soft style martial arts
How concepts like chi energy, structure, and manipulation play into training
Why historical fiction might be the right vehicle to explore Karate’s origins in Ryukyu
The challenge of building character arcs from real martial arts personalities
And how tactical decisions—like stripping soft-style elements from a new hard style methodology—affects both story and philosophy
There’s also a bit of behind-the-scenes talk: photography, editing, manuscript prep. Just two people trying to make something meaningful.
If you’ve read Breaking Through, you’ll probably see the through-line. This new project builds on the same foundation—kata as a living document, tradition as a conversation, and martial arts as a lens for understanding human conflict and growth.
I’d love to hear what you think. Better yet, if you’re on Goodreads, drop a question there. What would you want to see in a historical fiction story about martial arts? What kind of character would speak to you?
The Satsuma Rebellion of 1877 was a final stand by the samurai class against the sweeping reforms of the Meiji government. The Meiji Restoration had ushered in modernization, military conscription, and the abolition of the samurai, dismantling the very social order that had defined Japan for centuries. Many samurai saw these reforms as a betrayal—of their status, their traditions, and their very way of life.
Yet, despite their resistance, Japan as a whole was focused on a singular goal: preventing colonization by foreign powers. The country’s rapid modernization was not just about progress—it was about survival.
The film The Last Samurai captures this tension through the fictional Nathan Algren (Tom Cruise), a tortured military officer drawn into Japan’s internal struggle. In one pivotal scene, he clashes with Omura, a self-serving official whose commercial interests were tied to Japan’s new capitalist economy. Omura sought to marginalize the samurai, ensuring they had no place in this modernizing world. Algren, repulsed by Omura’s disregard for the human cost of progress, would later find himself identifying with the samurai.
The historical reality was even more brutal. The samurai’s final stand culminated in The Battle of Shiroyama, where Saigō Takamori, once a leader of the Meiji Restoration himself, chose to die for principle rather than accept the new order. Outgunned and vastly outnumbered, his forces fought until their last breath. Saigō, wounded, committed seppuku on the battlefield, his death marking the end of an era.
“Yet, the Samurai had been swept aside by the very nation they wished to protect.”
—Colin Wee, Excerpt from “The Lost Scrolls of Ryūkyū” (Unpublished Manuscript, 2025)
Many misinterpret The Last Samurai—it was not about a foreigner becoming Japan’s last warrior but about a man who chose to stand alongside the last of the samurai, honoring their code, their discipline, and their sacrifice.
By the time the Meiji era ended in 1912, Japan had fully transitioned into a modern imperial power. The samurai were gone. The country was now a rising force in the global arena. But for its annexed territories, such as Okinawa, modernization brought no relief. Okinawans remained dispossessed, their hopes for autonomy growing ever dimmer.
Historical fiction novel The Lost Scrolls of Ryūkyū follows a small group of Okinawans in this era, advocating for the establishment of a new system of Karate—one that could survive the political upheaval around them and improve their cultural security. As Japan entered the Great War, and as militarism took hold of the nation, these men were forced to ask themselves:
Were they building a legacy that would protect people—or a tool that would serve the empire?
Ankō Itosu’s proposal to the Ministry of War included the following in his second precept:
“If children were to begin training naturally in military prowess while in elementary school, then they would be well suited for military service.”
While the visuals of Itosu’s proposal didn’t look all that great in regards to the training of Japanese soldiers, the question was about who it would eventually serve and what it would become.
The Japanese people, too, were being swept into an era they were not fully prepared for. Modernization had cost them their samurai, their stability, and their traditions. And despite Okinawa’s own suffering, its masters saw that their knowledge could help anyone struggling to find their place in a changing world.
The above is a behind-the-scenes look at Colin’s latest historical fiction novel titled “The Lost Scrolls of Ryūkyū.” While you stay tuned for further updates, perhaps you’d care to explore the Occupied Okinawa: A Documentary Film by Robert Kajiwara from Peace for Okinawa Coalition.
Bushi Matsumura Portrait Drawing on Left, and AI rendition from https://deep-image.ai/ on Right
“Recently, Ankō briefed us on the Boxer Rebellion in China, an uprising instigated by the Society of Righteous and Harmonious Fists … [who] were anti-foreign, anti-imperialist, anti-Christian, and ultra-violent. … the boxers believed an Eight Trigrams Society ritual … endowed them with spiritual protection, making them invulnerable to modern weapons. Hearing this, Sensei coughed out one of his rare laughs, startling the hell out of the two of us. Even Ankō, who had faced off samurai, pirates, a battalion of U.S. soldiers, local gangs, and his fair share of annoying bureaucrats was unnerved.”
– Colin Wee, Excerpt from “The Lost Scrolls of Ryūkyū” (Unpublished Manuscript 2025)
Historical fiction allows an author great liberty when working interpersonal relationships and exploring internal struggles which are both key in bringing a person to life. In saying this, a certain amount of effort has gone into “The Lost Scrolls of Ryūkyū” to present the history and people with care and fidelity.
There are two instances the book departs from this, and I’d like to talk about the one shared in the above excerpt. While I won’t give away too much, this is a scene between the legendary Matusumura Sōkon, Itosu Ankō, and Asato Ankō.
My eventual hope, of course, is a reader would pick up this book, get invested in the characters and their arcs, attempt independent research on the subject, and then discover the events and situations I have portrayed are indeed factual. Or, some would say, “real.”
When you drill into Matsumura’s backstory, however, you find his birth and death are wildly different dependent on the source you use. For instance, Wikipedia states Matsumura passes in 1899, which is the same year the Boxer Rebellion starts. Other sources list his passing in 1896 or 1901.
The Boxer Rebellion https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxer_Rebellion as explained in the excerpt was a violent uprising against what they saw was an increase in foreign invaders and collonialists in China. While the situation was explosive and complex, these sentiments mirrored sentiments of pre-Meiji era Japan. Elements of the Boxer Rebellion and the “mystical power” the boxers believed to have been granted by the Eight Trigrams Society ritual are featured in Jet Li’s Once Upon a Time in China movies (watch the first clip to the end, then see how their mudras fail them after getting a kick from Wong Fei Hong in the second clip 0:37).
Matsumura may have had an inkling of the foment happening in China leading up to the Boxer Rebellion. Up to his death, Ryūkyū Shimpo, the island’s newspaper, would have been in operation for 6+ years. The newspaper would have had experience by then covering the First Sino-Japanese war, the anti-Japanese sentiment, and the complex fractionated politics of Ryūkyū’s bid for independance.
Why I couldn’t resist bringing Matsumura and the Boxer Rebellion together was the huge contrast between the legendary Bushi Matsumura, his predilection for risk analysis, pragmatic combat, stategic preparation, and obsession with martial effectiveness, and the “Boxer fighters, [who were] convinced they were invulnerable to foreign weapons.”
In modern parlance, Bushi Matsumura would better be labelled as a RBSD or Reality Based Self Defense practitioner rather than a “Traditional Karate Master.” The face presented in the portrait above and the AI rendition on its right shows it all: a person who has spent a lifetime being the security advisor to the Ryūkyū Kingdom would be laser-focused on what works, avoiding any fantasy of being invulnerable to the weapons of the day.
We know this because Matsumura travelled extensively to acquire the skills and to refine knowledge that would make him a more formidable adversary. This is irrespective of Ryūkyū having been disarmed by their Satsuma overlords. Side note: for history buffs, Matsumura travelled to Foochow in 1860, and would have been a stone’s throw from the real Wong Fei Hong, who was the medical officer for the Black Flag Army in Guangzhou at the time.
So while facts may have been stretched, I felt the need to unfold the story this way to focus on the truths important to these masters. Readers may be interested to look into Matsumura’s makimono to understand the “true martial way” he described and the pitfalls he wanted all practitioners to avoid. These are relevant now as a warning against wishful thinking in martial arts as they were when they were written in 1882.
The above is a behind-the-scenes look at Colin’s latest historical fiction novel titled “The Lost Scrolls of Ryūkyū.” Stay tuned for further updates.
There’s something satisfying about peeling back the layers of a martial arts kata, deconstructing its tactics, tracing its roots, understanding why it evolved the way it did, and ultimately, figuring out what it’s trying to teach us. But it’s even better when you see how it all fits into the bigger picture.
Jion is one such kata. It’s a name that conjures esoteric intrigue, perfect to whet the appetite of any martial artist wanting to seek traditional and tantalising secrets.
Seeking answers led me to the period following the Ryūkyū Disposition in 1879. This was a period of transformation. Japan had dismantled the dual vassal status of the Ryūkyū kingdom, annexed it and embarked on a program to suppress Ryūkyū languages and culture.
While the martial arts they had once trained in secret were now stepping out into the public eye, their culture and their way of life were at risk of being whitewashed altogether, consumed by the policies and the inexorable march onwards of the Japanese Empire.
Enter Ankō Itosu, a former Ryūkyūan bureaucrat, who led a charge in response. He understood he needed to innovate the way their combative system was trained and taught. They needed something new. Something scalable. Something that could be taught en masse without losing the essence of their system. Thus the Pinan series of training kata was born . This was a structured set of forms designed to introduce beginning students to fundamentals, taught in a way that could be replicated and standardized.
When the 1901 academic year opened, the general public were shocked to see Ankō’s new program, from then on called Karate, launched throughout the Okinawan school system. It was a strange sight seeing martial art instructors comingling with educators, even stranger still to see groups of students in western-style uniforms performing synchronised kata.
Jion was developed at this time. Not a battlefield kata like some of the older ones, but one that embodied a shift in thinking; a kata designed not just for combat but for teaching control, poise, and an understanding of when not to fight.
Ankō himself explained it best: “Jion doesn’t feel like a battlefield kata because it’s not meant to be. Not every fight starts with fists swinging. Some of the more dangerous conflicts I’ve been in were fought with words and gestures. Jion wasn’t about going for the win at all costs. It was about positioning, and choosing when, not if, you need to fight.”
– The Lost Scrolls of Ryūkyū, an unpublished historical fiction manuscript by Colin Wee
The kata wasn’t a holdover from a bygone era. It was a message in a bottle, sealed with insights Ankō felt needed to be preserved, to be shared with students, and to remind all of a Ryūkyū that deserved representation into the twentieth century.
The Shift from Tōde to Karate
This change didn’t sit well with everyone. Those who had trained in the old way, the way of Tōde, saw the modifications and scoffed. The overwhelming success Ankō had with the Okinawan educational system rankled them. They complained the new curriculum was a dilution, a softening of what had once been lethal and raw.
They didn’t see the larger picture. This wasn’t about changing for the sake of change. It was about survival; not just of repackaging techniques. Tōde had remained locked behind closed doors, taught in secret to a select few across generations. Alone, it couldn’t adapt fast enough to the onslaught from Japan’s annexation. They were so blinded by Ankō ‘s success they couldn’t see this development would support their own self-preservation.
Ankō had read the Japanese colonial expansion, their increasing militarism, and their modernisation. He had once managed an entire kingdom, and saw an opportunity where others saw barriers. This was him operating at a rarefied level to create something that would outlast them all.
This was what excited me about the genetic code of Jion. I have obsessed over this system and its architects since the publishing of my first book in 2023, and its story is a compelling one which took me by surprise.
Yet, this wasn’t a story I had devised to embark on by myself. It was Itosu who reached out to me, who came to life through his feats, showed me how complex their society was, and what they had to do to survive the extinction-level threat Japan represented. I then dove deep to experience their story, tried my best to avoid the mental overwhelm while doing so, and represented the truth and facts as best as I saw them. Coming back up for air, I am now utterly convinced every martial artist needs to read this historical fiction to understand how Itosu’s life’s lessons directly impact the martial arts we train.
Jion, and JDK USA in Schenectady NY 2024
JDK’s Schenectady seminar 2024 (snippets as shown in the above embedded YouTube video) was nothing short of electric, bringing the JDK Method to life for everyone in attendance.
This seminar highlighted both Bassai Dai and Jion, but wasn’t just about techniques—it was a not towards the architects of the form, and their training for the inevitable. It was clarifying how we are trained to move, and why we move the way we do.
Here are some key takeaways from the weekend:
🔹 Beyond Technique: Anticipating the Opposition JDK isn’t about fancy techniques—it’s preparing for the fight that’s coming. We train for opposition, contingencies, and workarounds. A technique is only useful if it accounts for resistance.
🔹 Unveiling the Hidden Layers of Tradition Kata isn’t choreography – it’s a playbook. We dissected, tested, and pressure-checked movements to ensure they hold up under realistic conditions. This isn’t about abandoning tradition; it’s about making it functionally relevant in the modern world.
🔹 Shield or Springboard? Using the Enemy as a Tool Sometimes, the attacker hands you an advantage—you just have to know how to take it. We explored how to redirect momentum, using an opponent’s own force as either a shield or a springboard to control the fight, create space, or set up a decisive counter.
🔹 Ground Force: Kinetic Chaining for Devastating Power Striking isn’t about isolated limbs—it’s harnessing the whole body. We trained to generate force from the ground up, connecting movements efficiently to maximize power. Imagine striking not just with your hand, but with the weight of the entire planet behind you.
To everyone who participated, thank you. Your enthusiasm and support turned this event into something truly special. Keep training hard, stay sharp, and keep pushing the boundaries of what you know.
Lithograph of a photo taken by Commodore Matthew Perry of Ryukyuan Regent Sho Taimu, possibly flanked by Matsumura Sokon (left) and Itosu Ankō (right)
Shinzato Shuzo, established in 1846, is the oldest existing awamori distillery in Okinawa, and it’s known for its traditional techniques and the quality of its products, which includes the Ryukyu Classic and Shinzato 7 awamori.
At the time of its inception, Matsumura Sōkon aka Bushi Matsumura would have served the Shō government for just over a decade, and a young Ankō Itosu would have only begun training under Matsumura. It would take another four year until he became Secretary of Ryūkyū Kingdom.
Shinzato Shuzo indicated that when Commodore Matthew Perry and his black ships stopped in Ryūkyū in 1853, there were only three distilleries on the island sanctioned by the government.
Perry “landed two cannons and two companies of U.S. Marines … Along with 50 naval officers and two brass bands” at Naha port before he literally invaded Shuri Castle (Clayton, Shotokan’s Secret p77).
This means the awamori Perry may have enjoyed could very well have been from their distillery. If so, the lithograph on the left, taken by the Commodore, may show some of their awamori being served in the drinking cup in the lower left hand corner of the frame. For more information see The story of Commodore Matthew C. Perry’s trip to Shuri Castle in 1853.
Shinzato Shuzo is characterized by a deep richness and smell of awamori on the nose. On the palate, it is fruity and has refreshing drinkability. With aging, sweetness and umami are enhanced, resulting in a smooth and profound flavor.
Ryūkyū Awamori Shinzato Classic
For those interested in trying what the Ryukyu Royals, Matsumura Sokon, Itosu Ankō and Asato Ankō were drinking at the time, click on the image to the right. For those of you who are interested to find out more of this culture see The essence of awamori.
The most rewarding aspect of being a writer in the martial arts niche is the opportunity to deeply connect with fellow practitioners who share my passion. This niche may not be a lucrative market, but the personal motivation behind my work stems from a genuine desire to contribute, inspire, leave a lasting impact, and to express my gratitude to those whom have contributed to my journey. The countless hours invested are fueled by the belief that sharing my insights and experiences can truly resonate with others on a profound level, fostering a sense of community and personal growth. It’s this shared journey and the potential to make a meaningful difference that makes the effort incredibly worthwhile.
‘When Taekwondo Strikes’ Movie is about a Korean Taekwondo master who enlists the aid of martial artists to help protect a church from a crew of Japanese fighters. Hero ‘Lee Chung Tun’ is played by real life GM Jhoon Rhee who brought my lineage to Southwest USA in 1956.
Introduction: The martial arts world has witnessed a long-standing rivalry between Taekwondo and Karate practitioners. Both disciplines have their unique characteristics and cultural significance. However, beneath the surface of rivalry lies a rich history and shared principles that bind these two martial arts together. In this article, we delve into the historical tensions between Taekwondo and Karate, explore their similarities, and shed light on the significance of a Taekwondo practitioner authoring a book on Karate.
Historical Tensions: The historical tensions between Taekwondo and Karate practitioners can be traced back to the evolution and cultural contexts of these martial arts. Taekwondo, with its roots in classical Karate, has become deeply ingrained in Korean culture and is considered a significant practice in Korea. On the other hand, modern Karate reflects the cultural characteristics and interests of Japan. These associations with cultural heritage and the evolution of the martial arts have sometimes led to a sense of rivalry and competition between the two styles.
Exploring Similarities: Despite the perceived differences, Taekwondo and Karate share a common lineage and underlying principles. Both styles emphasize discipline, respect, and the development of physical and mental strength. They incorporate variously similar techniques, including strikes, kicks, blocks, and forms (kata). By examining the historical connections and shared techniques, practitioners can discover the threads that bind Taekwondo and Karate together.
There are less differences that you might believe. Author Colin Wee poses with GM Kelly Cox from Marudo Ryu Karate. Both of these instructors find great similarities in their practice despite having lineages that come from different geographical regions.
A Taekwondo Practitioner’s Karate Book: In a fascinating and significant development, this Taekwondo practitioner has recently authored a Karate book titled ‘Breaking Through: The Secrets of Bassai Dai Kata.’ This remarkable achievement has garnered attention within the martial arts community for its in-depth exploration of a central form practiced across various styles in both the Karate and Taekwondo communities. The author’s ability to delve into the heart of this form, facilitated by his training in Traditional Taekwondo, is a testament to their similarities and his open-mindedness in seeking a deeper understanding of martial arts.
At the prestigious AKATO Annual Seminar 2023 in Dallas, Texas. Seminar leaders Master Colin Wee, Master Vivica LaMarche, and GM Mike Bonstaff pose and represent Traditional Taekwondo Applications, Okinawan Training, and Sport Karate respectively.
Beyond Superficial Differences: By delving into the source material and history of Taekwondo and Karate, the author of ‘Breaking Through’ has uncovered the profound essence that transcends superficial differences between the two disciplines. This book serves as a bridge, connecting practitioners from both styles and providing valuable insights into the shared heritage and underlying principles that bind them (See Bassai: Transforming Disadvantage into Advantage in Martial Arts and Life). Through this comprehensive exploration, practitioners are encouraged to break free from siloed approaches, access their analytical framework, and gain a holistic perspective that goes beyond the boundaries of any specific martial art, enriching their overall martial arts journey.
The Value of Martial Arts: While Taekwondo and Karate have their unique characteristics and applications, there is great value to be found in any training hall which offers combative sport, self-defense training, and traditional martial arts. Each approach serves different purposes and caters to the goals and aspirations of practitioners. Combative sport offers a platform for competition, physical fitness, and honing skills, while self-defense training equips individuals with practical techniques for real-life situations. Traditional martial arts provide a pathway for personal growth, discipline, and connecting with cultural heritage. The key lies in being clear about what one aims to achieve and aligning the chosen martial art accordingly.
Conclusion: The long-standing rivalry between Taekwondo and Karate practitioners has shaped their relationship throughout history. However, the 21st century presents an opportune time to shift our focus towards supporting individuals, elevating our understanding of the human condition which created this cultural practice, and celebrating the rich historical tapestry of each martial art. The publication of ‘Breaking Through: The Secrets of Bassai Dai Kata’ serves as a reminder that by embracing diversity and understanding the underlying principles, practitioners can unlock a deeper understanding of martial arts, finding profound value that extends far beyond superficial differences. Let us embrace this new era and celebrate the vibrant and interconnected nature of the martial arts community.
Introduction: “Breaking Through: The Secrets of Bassai Dai Kata” by Colin Wee is a groundbreaking publication that delves into the depths of martial arts philosophy and provides invaluable insights into Bassai Dai Kata. To commemorate this significant milestone, Colin was invited to lead a seminar in conjunction with the American Karate and Taekwondo Organization Annual Seminar and Banquet in Dallas, Texas, bringing together martial arts enthusiasts from near and far. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through the unforgettable book launch event and the enlightening seminar that left participants inspired and empowered.
AKATO seminar instructors pose with GM Keith Yates
Book Launch Event: The book launch of “Breaking Through” was a momentous occasion filled with excitement and anticipation. Martial arts enthusiasts, and other members of AKATO gathered to attend a series of seminars to celebrate the release of this extraordinary publication. Colin shared the profound lessons learned through Bassai Dai Kata, his personal journey, and was on hand to answer questions. Attendees had the opportunity to meet the author, get signed copies of the book, and engage in insightful conversations about martial arts, personal growth, and the power of perseverance.
Seminar Highlights: The AKATO seminar was held at the Richardson YMCA and took place on March 25, 2023. 130 participants and additional guests made up of family and friends had a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the teachings of traditional martial arts systems. Led by Colin and his demonstration partners, the seminar was an immersive experience that combined practical demonstrations, and hands-on training. Participants had the chance to learn and refine their techniques, explore the deeper meanings behind traditional martial art tactics, and gain valuable insights into combative strategies.
The seminar in Dallas, Texas, fostered a supportive and collaborative environment, allowing participants to connect with fellow martial artists and share their experiences. It was a truly enriching experience, as individuals from different backgrounds and skill levels came together to learn, grow, and inspire one another.
The Breaking Through Road Trippers 2023: Master Mike Swope, Master Colin Wee, Will Just and Jeff Palm
Impact and Feedback: The book launch and seminar left a lasting impact on all those who attended. Participants expressed their gratitude for the profound and insightful material shared by Colin, praising the Breaking Through: The Secrets of Bassai Dai Kata for its comprehensive exploration of traditional martial art tactics and its applications in real-world scenarios. Many highlighted the transformative nature of the seminar, noting how it deepened their understanding of martial arts principles and instilled a sense of empowerment and confidence.
Traditional martial art tactics taken directly from kata bunkai
Conclusion: The book launch of “Breaking Through: The Secrets of Bassai Dai Kata” and the accompanying seminar in Dallas, Texas, brought together a community of martial artists, eager learners, and enthusiasts, united by their passion for personal growth and the pursuit of excellence. The book’s insightful material and the seminar’s immersive experience left a lasting impact on all those in attendance, empowering them to break through barriers and discover hidden potential.
We are overjoyed to share a momentous achievement with our readers – the cover artwork from Colin Wee’s book, “Breaking Through: The Secrets of Bassai Dai Kata,” has been chosen to grace the cover of Totally Taekwondo Magazine in the May 2023 Issue 171 edition (see TotallyTKD on FB).
Our artwork featured in Totally Taekwondo Magazine
Being on the cover for Totally Taekwondo Magazine is a prestigious honor. The artwork shows a current day practitioner performing a modern technique, with a backdrop of Shuri castle emerging from the mists of time. We are grateful to Totally Taekwondo for the opportunity to showcase Traditional Taekwondo training as we know it, and for helping us to introduce “Breaking Through” to a wider audience.
We provide an exclusive glimpse into the article inside titled “Breaking Through: The Writing of a Martial Arts Book,” which accompanies our cover artwork within the magazine’s pages. We highlight key sections and insights, offering readers a taste of the transformative ideas explored in the article.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Master Stuart Anslow, the editor of Totally Taekwondo Magazine, for recognizing the significance of Colin Wee’s book and showcasing its cover artwork. We acknowledge the collaborative effort between our team and the magazine, celebrating the fusion of art and martial arts that has led to this exceptional milestone.
Being featured on Totally Taekwondo Magazine’s front cover is a celebration of martial arts excellence. Please watch our exclusive video snippet, explore the remarkable cover artwork, and come along for the ride.
Breaking Through: The Journey of Writing a Martial Arts Book
Introduction: In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, martial arts enthusiast Colin Wee took on the ambitious task of writing a martial arts applications book. Little did he know the amount of work and dedication it would require. In this article, we will delve into Colin’s experience and the challenges he faced while writing his recently published book, Breaking Through: The Secrets of Bassai Dai Kata.
The Motivation to Write: Colin’s decision to write a martial arts book stemmed from multiple sources of inspiration. Seeking approval from his teachers and seniors, along with the persistent requests from friends over the years, motivated him to share his valuable knowledge with others on the same martial arts path. Reflecting on his previous manuscript, which didn’t turn out as intended, Colin discovered that even perceived failures can lay the foundation for future success.
The Development of the JDK Method: Colin’s collaboration with his students led to the development of the Joong Do Kwan (JDK) Method, a unique training methodology for dynamic martial arts situations using fixed pattern sets. This method became the core of his book, showcasing how traditional training can be applied effectively in real-world scenarios.
The Challenges Faced: Writing a martial arts book proved to be a demanding undertaking. Colin recounts the extensive timeline of the project, including the year spent writing the manuscript, two years of submitting, rewriting, and editing, as well as the need for commissioned cover artwork and multiple photo shoots. Despite the hurdles, Colin’s determination remained unwavering.
The Unique Perspective: Breaking Through: The Secrets of Bassai Dai Kata stands out from traditional martial arts books. It challenges the belief of guaranteed success in martial arts techniques and introduces the possibility of failure, emphasizing the importance of adaptation and workarounds. By inviting non-compliance from opponents, the JDK Method trains practitioners to expect and respond to dynamic situations effectively.
The Collaborative Process: Colin sought the expertise of Master Mike Swope to help refine his manuscript. Mike’s valuable insights and recommendations pushed Colin to reframe his story, allowing readers to experience his journey alongside the exploration of kata-based training. The editing process, which extended even after the manuscript was submitted, ensured the accuracy, flow, and clarity of the content.
The Impactful Seminars: To coincide with the book launch, Colin organized seminars in Dallas, Texas, where he aimed to present high-level concepts to participants. The seminars mirrored the content of Breaking Through, encouraging attendees to make connections with their own training and gain combative insights while exploring traditional forms.
The Road Trip and Meeting Fellow Practitioners: Colin’s road trip to Dallas with Master Mike Swope turned out to be an incredible adventure. Joined by two fellow black belts, Jeff Palm and Will Just, they shared their passion for martial arts and had the opportunity to train and bond with like-minded individuals. The experience was a testament to the positive impact martial arts can have on personal growth and connection.
The Gratitude and Fulfillment: Completing Breaking Through and sharing it with the martial arts community brought an overwhelming sense of fulfillment to Colin. The positive reception from seminar attendees and the opportunity to express gratitude to his teachers and supporters filled him with gratitude. Holding the finished book in his hands symbolized the culmination of 40 years of training and a deep sense of appreciation.
Conclusion: Colin’s journey of writing Breaking Through: The Secrets of Bassai Dai Kata is a testament to the unwavering dedication and immense passion needed to craft a martial arts book. It vividly portrays the initial inspiration, the obstacles confronted, and the ultimate sense of accomplishment that comes from sharing knowledge with fellow enthusiasts. Through his book, Colin not only reveals the profound transformative impact of martial arts but also emphasizes the significance of imparting wisdom to those treading a similar path. Breaking Through stands as an invaluable resource, providing practitioners with invaluable guidance to enhance their comprehension and practical application of traditional martial arts principles.
