SENSEI Michael Dreyer, 5th Dan, Sensei/Senior Instructor

Full Name: Michael Jon Dreyer

Rank: Godan

Date of rank: June 2000

Instructor: Soshu Lee E. Dawson

Style Studied: American Kyokushin Karate, Seishin Ryu Karate

Age: 52

Date of birth: May 26, 1950

Born: Algona, Iowa

Significant events in your life: Death of parents and my brother, marriage, birth of our two children and our granddaughter. Serving in the military during wartime. Meeting Soshu Dawson and studying the martial arts under him.

People who motivated me, or helped me arrive at this point: Soshu for his patience and understanding, Renshi Perry and Sensei Hensley for their example and friendship for all these years, my Christian beliefs and the support of my wife Pat and family.

Obstacles I had to overcome: I have been very fortunate in my life to have accomplished the things I have. I started studying martial arts at the age of 36 feeling I was at a disadvantage because of my age. I realized much later that age was not necessarily a problem. There have been the occasional injuries along the way but by far the biggest obstacle has been my mental attitude. My life and circumstances have changed in many ways over the years and I did not always deal well with those changes. Any setbacks I had were because of how I responded to those changes. I found it very helpful to stay grounded in my religious beliefs and in the teachings of Seishin Ryu.

Family, Friends, Instructors etc. who are important at this time in my life: My wife Pat, who has always been supportive of me in my martial arts training. Of course Soshu Dawson. If not for him, I would have walked away from my training years ago. Renshi Perry who has always been there to talk to and share some history with. Sensei Hensley, who has shown tremendous perseverance and dedication.

Why I Am Studying my Present System: When I started training under Soshu, we were known as American Kyokushin Karate. I have been fortunate to be part of an association that has grown and changed into Seishin Ryu Karate. The basic precepts and tenets have not changed. Hoping to create better individuals with character and respect for others is what has kept me around. I believe in Seishin Ryu and what it teaches.

Philosophy I try to live by: I have always tried to respect others. I don't always agree with what some may say or do, but that should not diminish the importance of being respectful and courteous. No one can know what someone else is feeling or dealing with in their life that affects how they act or react. The only person we can control is ourselves, and how we treat others.

Advice that may help others in life, and with their study of the martial arts: Be patient, listen, follow the example of those you look up to and trust. Be slow to anger and quick to compliment. Try to enjoy everyday regardless of how it turns out.