Originally, this started out as my Black Belt essay with a little twist…. Towards the end I decided to change it. So now, this is my challenge to you all, for empathy training and random acts of kindness. As a child, I was never proficient in any sport. I was athletic enough to make it … Continue reading “Challenge Within A Challenge”
I passed my black belt test! I am so grateful to be a part of this amazing community and had the privilege to participate in such a test. Out of the 13 months there were some ups but there definitely was their fair share of downs. The test itself was brutal, I’ve never been too … Continue reading “Lucas Grant: Week 52”
Video 2 Ummmm… apparently I need to figure out how to post these videos the correct way lol If you click “Video 2”, I think it should play……😅
Ringing in yet another year! This year will be truly unique for myself and my fellow black belt candidates. We are all going through significant physical, mental, and spiritual changes. I view this as a great opportunity for growth. Personally, I want to commit to better health and wellness. Eat healthy, get adequate sleep, keep … Continue reading “New year, New mindset”
On January 13th Lucas and Cooper had successfully completed their Black Belt test which included doing kata for a hour and sparring for a hour. I think I learned a lot about what I have to complete at the end of my test just from observing. Now I know that I really need to work … Continue reading “Visual Training”
Wow! That was a spectacular black belt test. Lucas and Cooper showed tremendous heart during it. Their katas had such power and strength. They preformed extremely well under pressure. They knew their katas so well they probably could have done them with their eyes closed. They had a dojo full of people with all eyes … Continue reading “Black Belt Test For Lucas And Cooper”
Twelve Video Entries From My Test. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1DP2YNWiLL52LDC4KXykxLsv5n0_MT65w?usp=sharing
I just finished reading Zen In The Martial Arts. There were many great ideas that encouraged me. The author’s teacher was Bruce Lee. Two of Bruce Lee’s quotes from his lessons for the author rang true in my heart. “Do not allow negative thoughts to enter your mind for they are weeds that strangle confidence.” … Continue reading “Zen In The Martial Arts”
While rummaging through a box of random pictures and notes at home, I found this calendar page. It is from January 10, 1998. That is when I tested for my junior black belt. (Apparently, I had a basketball game that day too, we won 29-15 and I scored 6 points. And yes, I was wearing … Continue reading “Memories”
This week in particular has been a difficult one for me. Amid trying to recover from a very busy holiday season and dealing with the loss of a loved one, work and life have both been busy. It has been difficult to train or even get to class. I get the feeling that I’m drowning … Continue reading “Finding Balance”

