Margaret A. Millán

    Martial Arts is not just a hobby, it is a way of life, a way of being. when Margaret Millán received her black belt, it was not the end to a journey, but rather the start of a new chapter. “For now, it’s a calm peace that has settled in. I have run the race. This new beginning is just another open door. The path lies in front of me.   I do not knowwhere it leads. I do not know what tribulations I may encounter on the path, but I know what tools I carry with me every day.

” Margaret now uses her experiences to help others train and discover their own inner strength. “I use these and my martial arts background to look at the whole person, where they are, where they’ve been, and how can I help them to become a better citizen in today’s world, respecting the things around them as well as themselves.” By bringing together fitness, skill-building, technique, personal reflection, and a positive attitude, Margaret promotes a self-discovery atmosphere where fears are quelled, love is learned, and, at times, the earth moves.

   “We all have a life force. That is, our opinions, attitudes, schema, coping skills, and metacognitive awareness. Martial Artists trains the mind and the body to push through rough days and stand up to the challenges life can bring. We face hardships in our daily routine. The question is: what are you going to do with it?” Margaret also is an educator, graphic artist, sailor, mother, and facilitator. “Martial arts helps me to be a more patient mother and teacher, while also being a determined artist.  It also reminds me that no matter how far I stray away from the sea, that is something that I take with me and cherish.

   ”Margaret will be opening a location with the Cat Osterman Academy of Technology when the school opens in the near future. Until then, she can be found at the Buda and Bastrop locations.

Quotes that embody my thinking:

• "Courage is not the absence of fear, but knowing that something else is more important than fear. The brave may not live forever, but the cautious do not live at all." (Meg Cabot)
• "You are what you train to be: Train to be a champion. Train to be a warrior. Train to be humble. Train to be kind. Train to be thoughtful. Train to be respectful. Embody the way of martial arts, not just the physical practice and you will find the beauty." (Sonie Lasker)
• “The essence of the hakama is to remind a newly minted black belt of the value of humility.” (Thad Green)