This is what transpired: the kids removed shoes and socks and lined up inside the studio in front of the teacher (Lao Tse), who led them through a recitation of the school's motto, stretches, and beginning forms. There were about 10 kids in class, which was then split into the more accomplished kids and the newer kids. Our kids were in the latter group, working with the master on the "fighting style" pose and some punches and kicks (which he counted out in Mandarin--and we understood him!). Sis could follow along almost immediately, but Bud had more trouble following some of the forms. And both often switched their left and right. They also had trouble staying far enough apart and the teacher had to keep moving one off the other. But the teacher was amazingly patient and encouraging with all the kids, even when Bud at one point did a bit of his (unbeknownst to him) Bruce Lee impression.
I was mortified. Which I totally didn't expect. I was embarrassed that Bud was being a bit silly (or not paying perfect attention) but also worried that the teacher would be harsh on him (which he wouldn't understand). Luckily, nothing happened and Bud stopped pretty soon. And then I felt bad that I felt bad (I'm sure I was feeling self-conscious because the kids are half-Chinese and this is martial arts with a Chinese teacher and I feel, irrationally, like they have to prove themselves. Not because of the racist view that Asians are supposed to be good at such things, which is ridiculous. I'm not sure I can explain it. Or understand it myself). Ergh. But after class Bud and I talked about respect, which meant listening to the teacher and not playing around. I'm sure it'll happen again, though.
I was also amazed at how much Sis, whom the teacher called "smart girl," really got into it. She beamed proudly as she punched and kicked at the teacher's pads. She's tiny but tough.
At the end, the class gathered together and watched some of the routines of the older kids who are going to competition next week. They did a few more stretches. And then the teacher reviewed class, giving praise and suggestions, before asking them to bow, first to him, "Xie Xie Lao Tse," then to the assembled parents (who all stood and watched the whole time). Clap, clap, class over.
And so I think we'll go back. Both kids liked it a lot, especially the punching. And the uniforms. Bud especially liked the lion head costumes on the wall, which we'd seen at the Chinese New Year celebration. One day, he'd like to be a lion dancer, which requires lots of martial arts training, apparently. We can call him Bud Lee.
