About Me: A Lifelong Explorer on the Martial Arts Path

II’ve always been an explorer at heart. From moving around the Midwest as a kid to traveling the world for business, my life has been a journey of discovery. But it wasn’t until I found jiu-jitsu that I truly felt I’d discovered my passion.

A Journey Through Time: From Karate to BJJ

My relationship with martial arts began in the 1970s, inspired by Bruce Lee and fueled by a desire to be strong despite my small stature. Like many teenage adventures, it started casually in high school, but something deeper took root. In college, at a local Okinawan karate school, I discovered something beyond just techniques and training – I found community. That sense of belonging followed me to St. Louis with my first job, where I continued with the same martial arts family, eventually receving my black belt.

The path expanded during my business school years as I explored Jeet Kune Do and Filipino Kali, each art adding new dimensions to my understanding. These practices taught me more than just physical skills – they showed me the value of focused training and persistent effort. More importantly, they revealed how a dedicated community can elevate personal practice into something transcendent.

Life’s Intermission and Return

Life, career, and family eventually took center stage, and I stepped away from formal martial arts training for many years. During this time, I stayed connected to fitness through cycling and running, but something was always missing. Brief explorations into arts like Aikido would reignite familiar feelings of groundedness, yet without the right community connection, the spark never quite caught fire.

A New Chapter: Finding BJJ

Semi-retirement brought a new challenge: what to do next? After dabbling in boxing, I realized I must finally address my (lack of) “ground game.” Despite a torn rotator cuff and the intimidating prospect of being the oldest guy on the mat, I plunged into jiu-jitsu at 68. It’s been the hardest—and most rewarding—sport I’ve ever attempted.

Now at 69, I’ve discovered that what keeps me coming back day after day isn’t just the art itself – it’s the shared journey with fellow practitioners. The community aspect of BJJ has proven to be the essential fuel that feeds the flame of my martial arts passion.

Core Values on the Mat

Through every phase of this journey, martial arts has reinforced core values that define me:

– Courage to face challenges

– Passion for continuous growth

– Humility to always remain a student

– Dedication to hard work

– The power of community

These principles ground me, providing a foundation that extends far beyond the mats into every aspect of life. My journey has taught me that true martial arts training is never just about the individual. It’s about becoming part of something larger than yourself – a community of practitioners all walking the same path, supporting each other’s growth while pursuing their own.

Moving Forward

Whether you’re 25 or 65, it’s never too late to start your jiu-jitsu adventure. I’m not just learning but thriving as part of a vibrant community. Each day brings new challenges, opportunities for growth, and chances to contribute to others’ journeys.

Thank you for reading.

I hope that your journey in life brings you health, happiness and the joy that comes from expressing your true self.

Ray Swanson