On May 3rd 2008, I finally reached the point of culmination of 6 years of effort, practice, and perseverance. I don’t want to over-dramatize this event, but I do wish to reflect on what the title of “Black Belt” means to me. It is so much more than knowing how to execute a 360 degree round kick or throw a hard right hook.
It is about the person I was, the person I have grown to be, and all the winding roads in between. It is about what I have learned and what I have been able to teach others. For me, being a black belt means making the right decisions. It means choosing loving over hating, swimming over sinking, and giving over taking. A black belt is a person who is so accustomed to pushing and persevering that the thought of quitting does not even occur to him or her. A black belt is not merely a measure of performance, but a quality of character.
I was expecting this to change me; however, I have come to realize that becoming a black belt is not a hop or jump, but a gradual change. Honestly, I do not feel differently because over the years I have grown into this new role. I know all of the areas I still need to improve: my hands need to be faster and my kicks harder. My growth and learning do not stop here.
I never truly thought about the words we say every time before beginning class. I have become fond of them after so many years of repetition and have used them as advice on how to live my life.
Peace. Don’t cause unnecessary drama and don’t get caught up in it. Forgive and forget.
Unity. Reach out to others. Be there for your friends.
Respect. Accept others as they are. Do what makes you happy.
My black belt has not been “achieved,” but rather I have grown into the person it requires me to be. It will continue to evolve with me as I strive to find purpose and meaning within my life, wherever that may take me.
So thank you to those who have given me instruction and inspiration. I will carry your “warrior spirits” with me always.
Sincerely,
Kelsey Kasmerchak
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