A true hero

Last summer, my wife and I went to London. We did the typical sightseeing stuff. One of my favorite experiences was Westminster Abbey. It was amazing how much history was in that place, including the graves of so many famous figures.

We spent hours there. I was on a quest to see and pay my respects at a specific tomb. I walked all over, but couldn't find it. Finally, I asked an attendant where this particular person was buried. He looked at me with surprise. I probably looked my normal sloppy self, three day old beard, old comfortable shorts, most likely a BJJ t-shirt, and with an obvious American accent. He then smiled and said it was in an area that was roped off for a private ceremony later that day. Seeing my disappointment, he offered to guide me back there. After a little journey, I was finally at one of the places I absolutely had to see on my UK trip - the burial spot of William Wilburforce, one of the greatest men that ever walked the planet. I was content.

There is a good chance that reading this you don't know who Wilburforce was. Please, take the time to either read the book Amazing Grace or see the movie by the same name. Actually, you really should do both. I think it is a crime that he is not revered for the great things he accomplished, things that have a direct impact on how we all live today.

Read the book and see the movie. I guarantee you will not regret it.

Someone else's blog

Here is a fantastic blogpost by Andreh Anderson, a BJJ black belt under Rey Diogo. Andreh is a very cool dude, and this post is what I have been preaching to whoever is willing to listen since I have been back from Brazil four years ago. Very well articulated.

Cecil says check it out:

http://andrehbjj.blogspot.com/2009/07/sparring-time-in-brazil.html