Master Tim Hawk joins Sensei Tim Hoover and Steve Mittman. For every action there is a reaction — the ripple effect as we’ve been saying. It’s the description of karma. In a very profound way, Tim Hawk shares his insightful explanation of karma with us.

Karma /ˈkärmə/ noun — destiny or fate, following as effect from cause

“Realize that everything connects to everything else.” — Leonardo Da Vinci

Whether we describe it through physics, or refer to it as the Golden Rule from the Bible, karma is a natural law of the universe. We should take responsibility and be mindful with our actions — because they always have consequences.

“Contrary to popular misconception, karma has nothing to do with punishment and reward. It exists as part of our holographic universe’s binary or dualistic operating system only to teach us responsibility for our creations — and all things we experience are our creations.” — Sol Luckman

“Men are not punished for their sins, but by them.” — Elbert Hubbard

Next week we have Master Tim Hawk on the show. Tim Hoover and Steve Mittman explain who he is, their relationship, why he'll be on our podcast, how it came to be, and what you'll get by listening to him. Also on this episode:

Freezing is fight-or-flight on hold. You’re neither fighting nor fleeing. Realize you’re not necessarily safe, you’re just prolonging what needs to be done. And by not acting or deciding (freezing), circumstances may be chosen for you — because time does not stand still.

As we continue discussing the ripple effect, imagine it as a "blanket" that transcends space and time, affecting everyone and everything. Our goal is to constantly position ourselves so that we both create and receive positive ripples. When we're gone, those ripples continue. What you do for others stays behind.

Our special guest on this show is Tony Grigoli. A few episodes ago we talked about how if you don't like the results you're getting — the “ripple” so to speak — that you might consider jumping into a different pond. In Tony's situation, he literally crossed the pond to the United States to create a better life for his family. Listen to Tony's story.

• No matter how bad things may appear with COVID, politics, and social unrest, Americans still live in the greatest country on earth. There’s a reason people risk everything to come to the US.

• Life is all about decisions. Decisions can be frightening, and the choices we make have consequences. Tony took charge and made many decisions, practicing what we call CEE.

• We often talk about adversity, consistency, courage, and fear. Hear all of those applied in real life.

Just like COVID-19 is spread one person at a time — like a ripple effect, we can spread hope and positivity — one by one by one. Tim and Steve are joined by Len DiNote to talk about what his son, Matt, is doing. More than ever before, we all need to make the good come about. Matt the Travelin' Hat is doing it his way. Find your way. Put a purpose behind your intention. You'll find commitment — as excuses will be eliminated. Our brains are hardwired to connect — to be selfless, not selfish.

Coach Aaron Cerrone returns, and Tim and Steve pick up from last week’s show where they talked about every action having a reaction.

Ripple effect /ˈripəl ə fekt/ noun — the continuing and spreading results of an event or action

This episode is a reminder to choose wisely who and what you spend your time around — because they will affect you. You, in turn, will affect others — whether you realize it or not.

For every action there is a reaction. Regardless of whether it’s positive or negative, everything has a ripple effect.

• Don't look for someone else or something else to put you in a better mood

• The way you think, the words you speak, and the actions you take all affect others

• Negative energy turns into anger, and anger drains you of your lifeforce and vitality

Life is always changing. In fact, the only thing constant — is that things will change. Changes affect everyone, and we all deal with them differently. Tim Speiss joins Tim Hoover and Steve Mittman on this episode.

• Most things in life are outside of our control

• Dealing with changes is a skill that can be improved

• Self-defense is not just about defending our physical bodies

What changes have been hard for you to deal with? What changes in your life have turned out to be for the better in hindsight? Let us know.

Whatever you’re going through — no matter how big or small — it’s just a moment in time. It is up to you how you decide to handle it. Fight back in your own way. This episode is a simple reminder of a couple age-old adages:

• This too shall pass

• When life gives you lemons, make lemonade

Aaron Cerrone is the owner and head instructor of Mid America Martial Arts in Omaha, NE. He started his martial arts journey with Sensei Hoover while in 6th grade— roughly 35 years ago. This episode reunites Tim and his former student, Aaron, to discover the profound and long-term impact they had on each other.

Tim briefly recaps the last couple episodes based around Cobra Kai — leading to two thoughts he shares:

“We learn from the things we suffer.” — Aesop

“Do not expect to become perfect at once. If you do, you will be disappointed. Be better today than you were yesterday, and be better tomorrow than you are today.” — Lorenzo Snow