Sunday, January 13, 2008


No, you wouldn't know him, but this man was my martial arts instructor for 20 years, and my friend for 35. I just learned from my daughter that he died from pancreatic cancer on 01 DEC 06. He was a bull of a man at 5-11 and 235, but one of the most gentle and friendly people I have ever had the distinct pleasure to meet.

Master Shin held a 9th dan in Taekwondo, an 8th dan in Judo and an 8th dan in Hapkido. I was Uke to his Tori in many demonstrations where he tossed me around like a rag doll, but he always let me down easy . . . well kind of easy.

I was a charter member and an instructor in his school in Omaha for 20 years. I watched his children grow up, and taught them myself. This master instructor, a Korean national champion, trusted at least some of the introduction of his children to HIS martial art to me. His daughter is now married, and a registered pharmacist. His son is now a 5th degree black belt, and outranks me - his old teacher.

Although martial arts, by their nature can be violent, violence did not define this man. While he could teach us to kill or maim with little effort, his prime directives were humility and respect.

It's funny, but the first thing I thought of when I heard of his death was not of him shattering concrete slabs with his bare hands, but of a brief moment when I introduced him to my father. As soon as "Mr. Shin, this is my father" left my lips, he bowed very deeply, then offered his hand and said "I'm honored to meet you Mr. --------."
Shortly after I attained Sam Dan (3rd degree black belt) Master Shin called me aside and gave me his old black belt, which is embroidered with "INSTRUCTOR SUK KI SHIN" on one end and "KOREA TAE KWON DO ASSOCIATION" over "KUK KI WON" on the other. I still have it, although I'm no longer training, and it hangs in a place of honor in my office at home.

Had I remained in Omaha, I would have studied with him to the end. Sadly, when I left Omaha, I could never find a teacher like Mr. Shin, and my formal instruction ended there. I sorely wish things had been different.

Ahnyong hee gaseyo, Shin kwan jang nim
Goodbye, my friend.