If I were going to try and encapsulate the meaning and implications of KaizenTao, it would be to be perfectly human.

Introspection and accurate self-evaluation is required for constant growth, improvement, and specific skill building. This should be done while maintaining a tension free, pliable state of being. In order to adapt to new strategies, tactics, techniques and the ever-improving equipment options, one must remain a “student of the game” throughout one’s lifetime; inhabiting a form that is malleable, changed and guided by intelligent design.  Knowing this and living this are two entirely different matters. This state of being is not obtained by mere observation and mental ascension, but honed and refined by force of will in the multiple dimensions of life.

Once infused with capabilities, the ability to handle, share and pass on these gifts in a useful, humble manner becomes the end game. There is no greater joy for a teacher. Our students are our greatest treasure.

I have had the opportunity, the blessing if you will of being involved in tactical training for military and law enforcement personnel for over 3 decades.
It’s a calling more than a vocation. It’s taken quite seriously as concepts presented to those we interact with have real world implications.

When I first was put in contact with Thong, I was immediately impressed with his genuine no-nonsense approach to the study of combatives; but more importantly his even stronger uncompromising approach to life, relationships and ethics. One of his mantras is “You cannot teach martial arts without teaching ethics. It’s like giving a loaded weapon to a child.”

After a “rough start” between us, over time it became evident that we had a unique synergy, a strong connection/bond between us with respect to our passion for brushing aside the useless, obtaining the truth and passing on that which is truly useful to those that go in harm’s way. Our backgrounds are remarkably similar on many levels…Scary!

Thong is highly skilled in multiple disciples beyond fighting no doubt, but his expertise and value to those around him transcends a simple accumulation/collection of knowledge and achievements. His philosophy is encapsulated with his own statement: “There are many with skills out there. I am more impressed with ethics, character and willingness to share”.

Thong has taken the time through lengthy phone conversations and online Skype sessions to directly assist me in sorting out a myriad of previously unseen compromises and weaknesses I had allowed to reside not only in my body & movements but also in some key areas of my understanding.

We have since had the opportunity to meet in the tactical training environment. He immediately settled in with the students and my own teaching staff.

He did not strut; he served.
He did not take; he gave.
He did not try to climb to the top, but dug under in order lift up.
He did not overwhelm; he came alongside those seeking.

One cannot help but appreciate fine music.

I look forward to the continued interaction with Thong and those that represent and make up what is KaizenTao.

Thank you Thong for who you are and your willingness to make the world a better place.

Best to all.

Respectfully,

Ken J. Good
Founder of Combative Concepts , Founding Director of the SureFire Institute, Founder of Strategos International, Current Owner and Director of Progressive Combat Solutions, Exposure to Wrestling, JKD, & BJJ, Longer Study of Aiki jujutsu and RMA

 

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