24.12.2023 / Christmas & New year

Each individual creates the world

On Thursday afternoon, the world turned upside down in the Czech Republic. Many people were a direct part of it, for many it was a reality only a few tens or hundreds of metres away. Either way, the horrific act affected virtually everyone in our country. The images we have seen so far, mainly from the USA, have hit us directly.

Although almost three full days have passed, it is still so close, so vivid and still so surreal. Sonkal has joined the national mourning by not posting anything on its website and social media. It's a symbolic gesture, but I consider it important. In our global world, nothing is far away, it seems a lot of things are just a matter of time.

Each of us taekwondo players should contribute to building a better - more peaceful world. I hope we can do that, because that better society is up to each of us. It is not, and never will be, about politicians, celebrities or influencers. It is only and only about the behaviour of individuals.

The media is now awash with information about the monster that ended 17 lives, but I am inclined to think that his greatest achievement will be if he is constantly named, talked about... Let's talk about and remember the people who are sadly no longer here, because they clearly deserve it!

Today is Christmas Eve in the Czech Republic and I believe that the mourning candle is symbolic because it is a flame of hope. Hope for a better and more peaceful world. When you light the fourth Advent candle, see it as a symbol of hope. If there is will, there is hope!

Have a wonderful Christmas and I wish you good health and happiness for the New Year 2024

Ondřej Vrábel, VII. dan
President of Sonkal z.s.