I shall observe the tenants of tae-kwon-do. I shall respect my instructors, seniors, and fellow students. I shall never misuse taek-kwon-do. I will be a champion of freedom and justice. I will build a more peaceful world.
    This is the student oath. You don't really think about it when you recite it at the end of every lesson. I'm going to break it down to understand it bertter for myself.
    I shall observe the tenants of tae-kwon-do. This means that you should practice courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit. Courtesy is being polite to others. Integrity is keeping your promise. Perseverance is never giving up. Self-control is knowing when to say no, and indomitable spirit means you don't ever think of yourself as a failure.
    I shall respect my instructors, seniors and fellow students. This is rather self-explanatory. You should never be rude to a well-meaning adult because they're usually trying to help you. You should always give your classmates moral support and never be negative.
    I shall never mis-use tae-kwon-do. This is saying you won't use it for getting back at a sibling just because they embarrassed you. You must not use it to take advantage of anyone else. Tae-kwon-do should only be used to protect yourself and others.
    I will be a champion of freedom and justice. Meaning that if you see anyone being harassed in any way you are obliged to help. You should never make fun of people just for being who they are.
    I will build a more peaceful world. Unfortunately this is not happening fast enough. I think that if a truly peaceful world were to be achieved everybody would follow all of these guidelines to tae-kwon-do.