Introduction

Henry’s Corner May 2011 Issue 1

INTRODUCTION

Dear Friends

It is with great delight that I accept Master Daher’s invitation to contribute a regular column to our web site. I will bring you anecdotes, observations and thoughts on issues related to our organisation and Taekwon-Do in general.

As some of you are already aware, I commenced my training in Taekwon-Do in October of 1972, approximately three months before Master Daher began his training, under the tutelage of Master Young Ku Yun at the Australian Tae Kwon Do Academy. It has been many years since I discontinued the physical training of Taekwon-Do but the spirit of this beautiful art continues to find its domicile in me. I also hope to provide you with further insights into this unique individual, Master Daher, whom I have called a friend for nearly forty years.

Many people bear the scars of their encounter with Master Daher on the floor of a dojang but I am one of the few who escaped unscathed. Perhaps he had the foresight to know that I would be speaking and writing about him one day and decided to be kind to me!

On this note, I begin my contributions by briefly dwelling upon the leader of IL Shim, Master Daher, this month.

Master Daher came to our shores as a very young man to escape the turmoil of Lebanon and because his parents wanted him to be in a relatively calm environment such as Australia where his “risk taking” tendencies would find a safer outlet. He was the youngest of many siblings and displayed the adventurous, daring and bold approach to life which the youngest child in a family supposedly carries. He indeed came from a very tough background and always showed a fearless attitude to all situations in life. The road that he has walked clearly demonstrates a man who thrives in adrenalin charged situations and, during his younger years, often adopted the classic “shoot first and ask questions later” approach to conflict. He appears much more placid and serene in his middle age but I believe one would still test his patience at one’s peril.

Perhaps due to the background he came from where he had to hone his “survival instincts,” Master Daher possesses an acumen which makes his interpretation of life’s various situations valued by many.   

Master Daher’s potential and ability in Tae Kwon Do was recognised very early by his instructors and Master Yun correctly predicted that he would develop into an extraordinary exponent of this art. In his ascent to black belt, Master Daher achieved the honour of a double promotion twice. This was unprecedented and testimony to his rapid progress.

It was only recently that I commented to Master Daher that I thought he was born to be a martial artist. Physically, his agility, flexibility and coordination allows him to execute techniques superbly and, mentally, his fierce determination and enthusiasm has made him an outstanding practitioner of Tae Kwon Do.

Our lives are all the richer for knowing Master Daher