My son began his Martial Arts journey about two and half years ago. During that time , it has been fun, exciting , as well as challenging. When he first started, he was about seven years old, and he was very shy. It was hard for him at times to come out of his comfort zone, but as he continued to practice and listen to his instructors, he began to realize his strengths and his confidence level was raised. During the season in his life, when Martial Arts helped him with his self-esteem, which took some time, he realized that he wanted to help those who were younger than him. He wanted to encourage younger Martial Artist to believe in themselves, and he wanted to be a true example of hard work and patience, so he signed up to become a JR. Leader, which was one of the best things he has ever done. My son continues to express how fun it is helping others to learn special katas as well as helping those younger than him to accomplish their Martial Arts goals. As he continued working hard and going from belt to belt , now a red belt, and now being ten years old, he has been honest in saying that he recognizes the times he has faced some challenges along the way, which we know is to be expected. Throughout his time practicing Martial Arts, there have been times when he realized he was not as physically fit as he thought he was, and at times, he forgot the simplest katas. During these challenging moments, it was hard to stay focused and positive, but he was always reminded that Quitters Never Win. So, even through his toughest times, he had to dig deep , work hard, and realize that he should be training not just on the mat but off the mat as well. He realized that being physically fit and continuing to train no matter what level you are is truly important. So yes, it has been a lot of fun learning katas, self defense techniques but the challenges along the way have made him stronger mentally knowing that he can do what he puts his mind to, and that giving up is not an option. He truly holds true to the Student Creed: " To build true confidence, one must have knowledge in the mind, honesty in the heart and strength in the body. Winners never quit, and quitters never win, I choose to be a black belt." He realizes that the Students Creed is not just something to say at the beginning of each class, but it has become a part of his everyday life both on and off the mat. Good times he has enjoyed, and the struggles he has endured, and he will continue to look up, rise up, and never give up. read more