By Rochelle E. Brenner
Each black belt distinguishes themselves as extraordinary and inspirational along the black belt journey. It’s not just a matter of following along and passing a test. It’s demonstrating ability despite hardship and building strength of character off the mat. You don’t see it in the kicks and punches. You see it in their stories: family crisis, school struggles, physical ailments, sickness, moving, starting a new school. For some, it’s the willingness to get past the run of the mill wanting to quit that’s spectacular.
A few of these stories I’d like to highlight, and then share the slideshow of “link in the chain projects” where each Junior Black Belt is influencing people around them through their own personal style and martial arts.
Martial arts is a family thing.
Sensei Tim Wetzel earned his 3rd-degree black belt, and his son Tyler got his 2nd-degree. Tim’s wife (Tyler’s mom) was diagnosed with brain cancer this time last year and their lives instantly exploded. Jen Wetzel had to leave her career as a doctor and become a full-time patient. Tim had to cut back to working part-time at Action Karate to take care of his wife and manage her appointments. Her family became a full-time support system, she’s still at the karate school all the time, still taking classes, and her family (including daughter Kathryn) are still working toward their goals. They have every excuse to quit, but this journey has been a foundation for them and made their family stronger. You wouldn’t know any of that to see them perform their martial arts on the mat, but let them be an inspiration to you.
New Senior Black Belt Kyle Keen got his belt with his black belt mom, and black belt daughter: 3 generations stronger than they ever were.
Riley and Lukas followed in the footsteps of two older sisters and their mom who already completed the black belt test. Mom cried when Riley said “That was amazing.”
Action Life Rocks
A Black Belt is not something you get, it’s something you become. When you get the belt, it comes with a lifetime requirement to hold yourself to a higher standard. You know that you won’t give up on your goals, and that you will be a better influence on people around you. Most junior black belts continue on to train toward their Senior Black Belt, and many keep going in the martial arts lifestyle for life. They get married, have kids, and then their kids do karate. Through every stage of life, martial arts is there and evolves with you. At some points, it might be the main focus and other times it’s more casual. But once you’re a black belt, you’re in an esteemed group you can always go back to.
The Link in the Chain
The assignment: Complete a project that shares the martial arts with other people using whatever medium you would like (teaching, art, professional skill, etc.)
Project 1:Black Belt weapon rack
The rack was designed and built to hold weapons at this black belt test and will be used in all future ones. Every time someone tests for black belt, they will have this cool rack instead of dropping their weapons on the ground.
Project 2: Bracelets
Two students made bracelets with inspirational messages that remind the person wearing them that they are a martial artist.
Project 3: Self-defense class
One student wrote the curriculum and taught martial arts to his 5th grade class.
Project 4: Fundraiser for Action Scholarship Fund
One student made a video about his martial arts journey, shared it with family and friends, and used it to raise money for the scholarship fund that has also helped his family stay on track with their training. This fundraising will allow another student to get he benefits of martial arts that he experienced.
Project 5: Posters
Two students drew posters for Action Karate and the Asah Shark.
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