"Like all children, they were drawn to the distractions of popular culture. And I knew, one day they would want to explore the world above. [remembers the young turtles dancing to Gwen Stefani's "Hollaback Girl"] They would be ridiculed. They would need to learn to protect themselves, both mentally and physically. [while sweeping, Splinter finds a book on ninjutsu] And then I found a way. First, I would teach myself the ancient art of ninjutsu. The others followed my lead, accelerating at a wondrous rate. Their gift was also their passion; they lived, breathed and dreamed of martial arts. Then, they were ready."