If you read a lot of BJJ related blogs, I’m sure you’ve heard about Christian Gruagart, a danish BJJ instructor who is currently doing an around the world trip and blogging about his experiences. He talks about the places he’s visting (Transnistria? come on Christian, did you just make that country up?) the people he’s meeting, and the food he’s eating.
BJJ Student - Burlacu - From BJJ Globetrotter
It’s all good fun, and Christian is a great writer so it’s very engaging, but the other day a post about some kids he got a chance to work with really got to me on an emotional level. I won’t go into details here, you really need to read it from Christian’s viewpoint.
Jiu Jitsu can be so much more than who won some tournament, what gi has the most bling this year, or who can choke who in practice. Jiu Jitsu is a way to connect with people from across huge cultural and social divides, and create friendships and family with people around the globe. The simple act of sharing Jiu Jitsu can make the world a better place.
It’s hard to keep perspective sometimes about what’s important in life. I know that I get so caught up in the daily grind, I sometimes take for granted how lucky I am. Thank you Christian, for sharing your gift of Jiu Jitsu with those kids, and for reminding me of what’s really important.
Bill Thomas
