Student Testimonial from Michael Sabella| Faustini's Institute of Martial Arts and Fitness

What Our Students Say

Michael Sabella

When I was only 5 years old, I began my journey through the system of Sensei Richard Faustini, at Faustini's Institute of Martial Arts and Fitness. Eleven years, three dojos, and numerous experiences later, I am testing for my Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, as well as my Junior Brown Belt in Heiho Shin Do. My time at FIMA has not been easy; between my training at the dojo, schoolwork, and the pursuit of extracurricular activities elsewhere, it has been difficult to stay the course, and consistently study the martial arts. I can recall many times during my training when I wanted to give up and quit, due to the challenges I encountered; however, through the support staff at FIMA, my family, and my friends, I fortunately stayed on and continued to train. Now, I am definitely pleased that I did.

The martial arts have affected my life in every way imaginable. Having gone to karate for over a decade, it has become a paramount activity in my everyday routine, and has helped me to find a means of physical and spiritual release. My study of karate has also instilled my values in me, such as perseverance, self-discipline, and every kind of respect for others, as well as myself. I can honestly say that, after having met so many influential people, encountered so many challenging tasks, and learned so many new things, I am a better martial artist and furthermore, a better human being for it all. I now look at life and realize that, as in my martial arts studies, I will always encounter problems and dilemmas, but that through faith, determination, and a spirit of hope, they will all be resolved in the end.

Karate is more than a study of self-defense and skilled physical movements; it is also a philosophy. Few other activities can incorporate the mind, body, and spirit in such an intricate and beautiful, while at the same time, challenging way. I am thankful to all who have, and who continue to, support and guide me through my study of this truly resplendent art, which has changed my life, and the way I view it, tremendously. I wish to thank especially both Sensei Faustini and Sensei Glenn for tolerating me and guiding me through the martial arts, despite my sometimes odd behavior at certain points of my training. I can assure all of you here today that all of the lessons that I learned, and the many things I experienced at FIMA, will never be forgotten.