small was the person in front of me
not in size
but in self esteem
life had pushed too hard for this wee one
and refuge was deep
away from reality
i spoke gently as i showed
a simple martial arts move
doubt spread across this persons face
::i could almost hear the thought
::i can't do this..why am i even trying:::
i held the pad..for the first try
at a strike
..eyes widened..smaaack..
the power was there just a little off the mark
encouraged the person grew
not in size..in self
many techniques i showed
many words spoken
gently moving inside
filling..this person..with knowledge
..with confidence..
::now for a simple release
"if someone grabs you like this.
.
::the person..pulled away frightened
my touch soft..voice gentle
..you try it now...
so quickly this person got away
eyes..oh so bright now
consumed with a joy
bowing we end the first class
my heart warmed
the wee one..walking out
not so small this person
my eyes heard the thought
::i can do this..no problem...
| 
KEB