I met a good friend recently, someone I’ve known since we both joined the same IT course 12 years ago. He’s not just a friend but also a martial arts champion of France, which immediately brought to mind a movie I loved as a child: Kickboxer, directed by David Worth and starring Jean-Claude Van Damme.
Jean-Claude Van Damme rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s, starring in numerous action films that showcased his martial arts skills. Among those movies, Kickboxer stands out as one of the first to introduce Muay Thai to a global audience. Van Damme, himself a former Karate European Champion, embodied the physical discipline and dedication required for martial arts—a reminder that cultivating such habits isn’t just about the body but also the health of the mind.
In today’s world, where sedentary lifestyles dominate, incorporating fitness and physical exercise into our daily routines should no longer be a choice but a priority.
The Story Behind Kickboxer
The plot of Kickboxer is straightforward yet inspiring. Kurt Sloane (played by Van Damme) seeks revenge on Tong Po, the Muay Thai fighter who paralyzed his brother through foul play. Under the guidance of Xian Chow, a master trainer, Kurt begins his journey of transformation.
However, his path isn’t smooth. Overconfidence and a lack of willpower nearly lead him to give up. Through resilience, humility, and embracing challenges, he ultimately learns the value of dedication and perseverance. The film resonates not just as an action story but as a metaphor for personal growth and the journey of self-improvement.
Jean-Claude Van Damme and the Misunderstanding of “Awareness”
Jean-Claude Van Damme became an iconic figure, but his interviews, particularly on French television, often drew ridicule. A prime example was the way he emphasized the need to be “aware.” While this term became a source of mockery, the true irony lay in the lack of awareness among those judging him.
Van Damme’s multilingual background, shaped by living across the globe, often led to a mix of languages in his interviews. Some journalists mocked this, showing their limited understanding of the challenges that come with navigating multiple languages. At One Daily Tale, we believe such misunderstandings could easily be avoided with a shift in perspective—thinking as citizens of the world first and fostering true awareness.
Building a Citizen-of-the-World Mindset
Being a citizen of the world requires looking beyond our immediate circle of family and friends to care for and help others, including strangers. While adopting this mindset may feel difficult at first, it becomes easier with the right habits.
The neuroplasticity of our brain—its ability to adapt and grow—is enhanced through actions like:
- Learning new skills
- Building social relationships
- Embracing challenges
- Improving physical fitness
These practices make our thinking more flexible and open, paving the way for meaningful change.
Small Actions, Big Impact
No one can change society alone. However, small, consistent actions done in harmony can create tremendous power over time. As more individuals embrace awareness and act as citizens of the world, the world itself will begin to transform.
What’s Your Take?
Do you believe we can truly shift to a mindset of global citizenship? What small steps do you think individuals can take to build a more aware and connected society? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
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