Congratulations to Avi and Elinor. This is very exciting for both you and them. It will be helpful to have them training with you your last four months. It will also be encouraging to them to have you.

I’m glad that you have training partners now as you head into the final stretches of your test. This whole process is an ordeal that very few have gone through–these are special memories that you are making with your friends and karate family.

A special bond is made when we train for a black belt test with others. I am so grateful for the two young men I trained with. Though I rarely see them or talk with them (I moved to another state), we have a lifelong bond that is unique and a gift. May you three share this special bond as well!

I’m very glad that you had a chance to connect with her and sit under the learning tree, as they say. Master Cooling has so much Isshinryu knowledge and am thankful that we could make that connection for you!

I’m so glad you were able to connect with a woman black belt to inspire and mentor you along this path. Keep up the great work!