The journey from white to black belt is an arduous endeavor for most. It takes an average of 5 years of continuous classes to be considered as a candidate for black belt testing. To achieve your black belt in 5 years a student would need a minimum of 2 classes per week or 8 classes per month, if not more. The journey is a test of mind, body and spirit. It’s a display of commitment and dedication; responsibility and determination. It is a journey of successes and defeats and of never giving up.
Every rank is a challenge and every belt test a demonstration of your character. When you fall, will you get back up? When you achieve, will you be boastful or humble?
A black belt will persevere when life gets too tough. They will stand up to any challenge thrown their way. He will be respectful and courteous, prideful and modest, confident and strong. The black belt will be a leader, not a follower because he has developed the self-respect and discipline to be so.
The journey from white to black belt is a long one but the reward is priceless. It’s the feeling of a walk off home run in the bottom of the 9th, catching the winning touchdown in the Super Bowl or the 3 point shot at the buzzer to win the game. Not everyone has what it takes to see the quest for a Black Belt all the way through but those who do will have achieved something they will keep for a lifetime.
Sensei Lori Miley is a 3rd Degree black belt at , Yorktown Heights.
