Sifu Andrew Miller

I began my martial arts journey at the tender age of eight, under the guidance of Grandmaster Patrick McDaniel. Mr. Pat, a custodian at my elementary school, saw a spark in me—a small child with big dreams. It was in Midland, North Carolina, at my sister’s school, where I first encountered Ki Do Kai Kempo, the Kajukembo Noble Method.

My grandfather took me to sign up; I remember feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. On my very first day, Mr. Pat introduced me to fundamental concepts: the attention stance, how to Kiai, and the five reasons why we Kiai. Each lesson filled me with eagerness to learn more and grow in my knowledge of martial arts.

A month later, I faced one of the most memorable moments of my journey: my yellow belt test. I was among only one other contender, and before us stood three remarkable martial artists: Grandmaster Patrick McDaniel, Sifu Stephon Carr (Bok), and Sifu Kyoshi Bracero Rucker. The day is etched in my memory. Though I had practiced ten moves of Ki 1, I realized moments before the test that I still needed to learn four crucial moves. My nerves were palpable, but I was determined to do my best. After the test, I had to wait anxiously for two weeks without inquiring about my results; asking would only prolong my anxiety.

Mr. Pat hosted my first tournament at my elementary school. Nervous yet eager, I stepped onto the mat and, to my delight, placed second in my first-ever competition. I was proud, knowing I showed my best effort despite my jitters.

Over the years, my passion for martial arts flourished. I aspired to become a remarkable martial artist, though the path was anything but easy. I never liked to fight; my tenderhearted nature made me hesitant to hurt anyone. Although I struggled initially with confidence and speed, I gradually found the strength within myself to combat my fears. As I grew more proficient, I began winning fights. Yet even as I honed my skills, my fundamental disposition remained unchanged—I still don’t find joy in hurting others. Instead, I learned that sometimes, one must switch gears to protect themselves and their loved ones.

At fourteen, I received an exhilarating letter notifying me that I was being evaluated to test for a black belt. My preparations intensified, and I dedicated myself to rigorous training, fully aware that earning a black belt meant I would only be beginning my journey. Finally, the day arrived on July 19, 2019. After months of determination, I stood in front of an esteemed board of about 25 black belts, ready to showcase what I had learned. The day was grueling; we worked hard for six hours, presenting all the techniques demanded of us. After a torturous wait, we were invited back into the room. The board shared their wisdom with us, and in a moment that changed my life, they asked us to turn around and open the boxes that had been placed behind us. Inside, a certificate marked my promotion to black belt, alongside my actual black belt—one of my proudest achievements.

In the following years, I advanced to my second and third-degree black belts, understanding that martial arts is a living, breathing entity. If we do not cherish and nurture this art, it risks fading away. The passing of Mr. Pat in March 2024 deeply impacted me. Without passionate individuals like my sister and me to carry on his legacy, his contributions might have been lost.

With every student I teach, I reflect on the love Mr. Pat shared and how it resonated with those who knew him. I also see the potential in those who didn’t have the privilege of knowing him, and it has become my duty to impart the same love and guidance he offered me. As I continue this beautiful journey as both a student and teacher, I realize that I learn just as much from my students as they do from me. It is immensely rewarding to watch them begin to carve their own legacies—a journey I am still actively pursuing.

In the words of Grandmaster Patrick McDaniel, “What comes from the heart touches the heart.” As I navigate this lifelong journey, I hold this truth close, eager to see where it leads me and whose lives it will touch along the way.