Earning A Belt

     Larger Child started his evolution in to tae-kwon-do about three years ago.  His Nana heard about a new school opening up that incorporated Christian teachings into their karate curriculum.  They were young, new, and very reasonably priced, so he and his cousin both got signed up to take classes. He seemed to instantly enjoy the classes, though at the time the only other regular interaction he got with kids his own age was his once a week Mother's Day Out school.  But, he was always eager to go, listened well, and enjoyed mastering new skills.
     Fast forward a couple of years... Larger Child is still taking classes, but we are having arguments to get him to go. It became a fight to get him up and ready... He was pouty and argumentative.  We finally had to have a talk with him about it. Through this time period, he learned that if he signs up to do something, he cannot quit until his commitment has been upheld.  He must see things through.  Mommy and Daddy will not allow anything less.  He finished the semester grudgingly.
     We assumed that would be it. We thought he tried it, decided it wasn't for him and was going to move on.  But something happened.  I am not sure what exactly, but he wanted to go back. We explained that if we signed him up for the next year, he would have to commit to finishing without complaint.  He seemed okay with that.  So, our five year old gave it another year.
     By this point, he had become a big brother.  Now, I am not sure if this fact had anything to do with the change we were soon to see in him, but this fact to infiltrate every part of his persona, so I would like to think it may have had some impact on his class as well. He found a new determination and a new focus.  He began to practice at home.  He quit complaining. He never had to be talked in to going.  It was something he looked forward to.  I was proud, and quite frankly surprised to see the welcomed change.
     Then came the end of the year belt testing.  This is when Mama had to learn her lesson about letting go.  He had new forms to remember, and new skills to master.  I wanted desperately to learn them myself so I could work with him and make sure he had it perfect. I knew though, that he was getting to an age that he would have to start taking some responsibility for his own preparation and readiness. I HAD TO LET GO.
    Today was his belt ceremony.  After a week of wondering, "Did he do it? Did he do enough? Will he be disappointed?  Will he be heartbroken?  What do I do if he doesn't?" etc, I got to see him walk up on stage and get his yellow belt.  I got to see him beam with pride, and I was beaming right back at him!!

    He looked at the new belt with near marvel...

His brother was pretty fond of it too!

These are his instructors (Sensei?) With Jake wearing his new belt for the first time. They are incredible and loving people.  We are blessed to have their guidance in our child's life.

So proud of my Sugar Bee.  What an amazing boy his is!