Chinese New Year

Gung Hay Fat Choy.

The time is almost here (Feb 11), when we will again have the opportunity to witness a San Francisco tradition dating back decades. Unfortunately, there is a black cloud over this one.

I'm referring to Falun Gong.

Falun Gong, in and of itself, is just another internal martial art, similar to Tai Chi, Bagua and Hsing I. These are slow-moving exercises and breathing techniques designed to balance the body, mind and spirit. Cool.

But over in China, where it began, the followers grew in numbers. The government watched.
The were worried by the sheer numbers. And rightfully so. Someone high up in the Falun Gong organization decided to use the "strength in numbers" for political gain. And the followers followed. And now, they're connected to newspapers and radio stations everywhere.

So, today, we have a problem. We have a martial art that is good for health and well being, being used in a political capacity. That's what the Chinese goverment was afraid of. So insightful, the Chinese. Hey, it's why I study the martial arts. Just remember, when I tell you something, and you don't believe me, you better think twice. I've been studying the arts and philosophies on and off for 20 years! The LoongTao doesn't take names, it only kicks ass. Plus, I've had the good fortune of being a parade participant on behalf of my kung fu school at the time, Tat Mau Wong's Kung Fu Academy.

Anyway, Falun Gong was rejected for this years parade. They're mad and are crying fowl. But last year, they passed out political leaflets, which was not allowed, and more people showed up than was planned, which stalled the parade. This is the largest parade in the country, folks. We can't have it being stalled on the streets of San Francisco.

So here is the LoongTao take: Falun Gong is fine if you're practicing the art itself in your home, park, or wherever, fine. But as an organization, you've destroyed the complete meaning and purpose of what was once, a beautiful art.

The LoongTao says, let's take it out back, so I can crush your necks with my right pinkie. Btw, I'm left-handed.