August 18, 2012 marks the second anniversary of the passing of Manong Isidro P. Javier, Great Grand Master of Filipino Martial Arts and Eskrima Pioneer.

It seems like only yesterday that we, the “four travelers” were on the road to another tournament, Martial Arts Grand Master Frank Landers, Professor Cathy Landers, Manong Javier, and Me; “The Writer”.

But time has a way of slipping past when you’re not looking, and it’s now two years gone as fast as a blink.

It makes one want to pause for a breath, that life could go on so quickly, but time knows no master, leaving us to do the best with what we have and to appreciate the time we were given with family and friends now past.

I knew Manong Javier for only a short while, but he has left a lasting impression that will remain with me for the rest of my life. Only a few people manage to live such long and accomplished lives as he did, which is why it is important for his story to be told. Some may think his only life was as a Master of a great fighting art, but there is so much more of his journey that the public has yet to learn, and that is why Martial Arts Grand Master Frank Landers and Professor Cathy Landers are working so hard to keep Javier's legacy alive. My part is only to write the words, to relate the history of a man who’s presence is still being felt, but I also remember him not only as a great man, but also as a great friend.



May you rest in peace my friend.
Glen Rathbone