LETTERS TO GRANDMASTER-- Brian Hammer

 Grandmaster Kim Soo shares his correspondence from students

Dear Grandmaster Kim,

Thank you again for the class yesterday and for sharing a meal with me.

I will be working on the Ho Hub Hyung article as we discussed and will be in touch shortly if I have any additional questions.

I also wanted to express appreciation to you for dedicating your life to teaching. You have inspired tens of thousands of people to live stronger, more courageous lives. And that is HUGE Grandmaster Kim. There are tens of thousands of humans all over the world who are living better lives because of what they learned from you and from Chayon Ryu. Chayon Ryu principles help people not only to live better lives, but also to be better parents, friends and leaders in every capacity.

Myself included. I have studied Chayon Ryu since 1989, and as a result I am a more balanced, patient, kinder and stronger person. Every day I remember to live the way of truth and seek perfection of character. Every day, I remember to aspire for balance and control. Every day, I think about my turns, my breathing, and how I effect those I come into contact with. These and many other Chayon Ryu principles are now well-integrated in my character, and this is because of you and your influence.

I know teachers rarely get the credit they deserve. In many ways teaching is an under appreciated role in life. Yet in my opinion, it is one of the most important roles. Teachers may never fully know the extent of their influence, and how many people they have indirectly touched. Though I am confident in my belief that you have had a profound and positive influence on many, many more than you will ever know.

Thank you for giving your life to teaching and to improving the lives of others. I’m sure there were many times that you could have chosen a more selfish path and followed money and power like so many do. Though in my experience, fulfillment and meaning comes to those that are of service.

You are of great service Grandmaster Kim and I hope you feel as deeply fulfilled as you have earned the right to feel. I deeply respect you Grandmaster Kim, and I know that many, many others do as well. You are one of the most important role-models in my life.

I wish you peace and contentment, and look forward to many more years of learning from you.

Best regards and until soon,

Brian Hammer, Sabeomnim 4th Dan