TENETS OF TAE KWON DO
The seven Tenets are the guiding principles of Tae Kwon Do. A practitioner of Tae Kwon Do will live his or her life according to the following tenets, which are recited at the beginning of every class.
HONOR
Is nobility of mind and maintenance of one's personal dignity in the face of adversity. Honor is the gift you give yourself.
COURTESY
Is thoughtfulness and consideration of others, humility, civility, and politeness.
INTEGRITY
Is the uncompromising adherence to a code of moral values and principles. It requires soundness of ethical strength.
PERSEVERANCE
Is steadfast pursuit of one's goals. It is the quality of never giving up in the face of a challenge.
SELF-CONTROL
Is restraint of one's emotions and reactions. Control comes from within rather than outside forces.
COURAGE
Is the spirit, which enables one to face danger with self-possession, confidence, and resolution. Courage consists of a reserve of moral strength on which one may draw in time of emergency. A courageous person will not tolerate injustice.
COMMUNITY
Is the responsibility to contribute to society regardless of one's position in life. Civic accountability requires us to do our share and to be part of the solution of society's problems. Remember: Every right implies a responsibility, every opportunity an obligation, every possession a duty.