16th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
A Warrior's Bond

“When I was young, I didn’t know my father. I spent most of my time with my mother; however, the more time I spent with him, we formed a bond and through that I noticed that my father moved differently than other people. I came to know them as forms—a chain of techniques for martial arts, like a choreographed dance. He began teaching me how to use my body and introduced me to new workouts. Our time together would not last, but I continued to train myself, obsessing over getting better so I could learn more from him. Each time I got to see him, he would continue to train me, and the workouts became more intense. It was frustrating, but he would tell me, “If you learn to control your body and mind then nobody else can.” There were so many lessons and so many bonding moments. This would build my mindset for the rest of my life and establish my passion for martial arts. Now I teach self-defense classes and kung fu classes. I hope I can pass on what I have learned from my father to others.”

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 12.2017
Date Uploaded: 11.2018
Photo Location: Louisiana, United States of America
Camera: NIKON D5100
Copyright: © Keith Matthews