In January 2011, I earned my first degree black belt...
That was a decade ago. Three years later, in January 2014, I earned my second degree black belt. 🥋🐯
Martial arts has been a huge part (about 2/3) of my life. It was my second home: a community I quite literally grew up with and continue to grow in. I have so many fond memories from the experiences, as well as many challenges I faced and eventually overcame through it. I learned far more than just self-defense and fancy head-high kicks (but those are useful and cool skills, too.) Generally speaking, it guided me to test my limits, strengthen aspects of my mind, physical strength, and camaraderie amongst peers, and how to pick myself up with the willpower to fight and try again.
For anyone that is reading this and doubts that they can’t start now, or that it’s too late to, it’s not. It is absolutely still possible. I’ve met so many people well into their adulthood that have earned their first Dan and beyond. With the right people supporting you and the right mindset/dedication, it will be feasible.
And to those that I’ve trained with past and present, thank you for working with me, instructing me, and encouraging me as a student or peer. And for sharing jokes, carpools, Saturday morning workouts, staff meetings, and lifelong friendships with, of course.
I love and miss you guys, and hope you’re all doing well.
P.S. Congrats on the 50th annual black belt test! 😄
