Hometown Living At Its Best 63
to be in harmony and at peace with
myself. When you have peace within
yourself, you learn to be at peace with
others.”
The discipline required for the
physical aspect of martial arts gave
him new understanding of self-control.
“Martial art is not about reacting
violently and using your skills against
someone just because they called
you a name,” said Dewitt. “It all boils
down to self-discipline. It’s something
we need in our families, schools, and
society. When we don’t have selfcontrol,
we often give someone else
control.”
By focusing on our personal
growth, we free ourselves and others
from judgments and comparisons.
“We can recognize and accept people
as they are,” said Dewitt. “Even when
they have different opinions or ideas.
Their energy level might be different.
When emotions rise up, we want to
find fault. But there’s no need. We can
choose to accept others. Everyone
has to make their own changes. I
only have the ability to make changes
within myself. When I am at peace
within myself, then I find peace with
others.”
Dewitt’s inward growth also
resulted in a greater respect and
appreciation for nature. “There is
harmony and balance in nature. You
can see that everything in nature has
its purpose. By watching and listening
to nature, you can apply the principles
of respect to your own life. Nature is
a great teacher to us. It is not at war
against itself. So why should I, as a
living being, be at war within myself?”