The first time I stepped foot in the KMMA school, I was just a grateful parent that was able to find a last-minute location for my son’s birthday party in June 2020. Between Covid-19 and the rain pouring on the area from a tropical storm this was a valued commodity! Sensei Kyle and Sensei Sarah made the party fun and the kids were exhausted from all of the activity! Later that week, Grand Master Steve contacted me about a free 2-week trial. I thought this was going to be a great opportunity for my kids to get activity and have fun outside of the house. Then Grand Master asked if I wanted to try it, too. I will admit that I was shocked by the question. One look at me would let anyone know that I avoid physical activity. However, I agreed…somewhat out of shock, but there was a part of me that was curious. When I arrived for my first class, the kids were excited…I was not so much. I was nervous about failing, I was afraid of looking like a fool, and I was scared that I wouldn’t be able to do it. I received quite a workout! I was able to keep up with the class to the best of my ability, I was thoroughly exhausted afterwards, I was covered in sweat, but most importantly I was happy. My husband commented that this was the most he had seen me smile all year (we all know 2020 has been quite a tough year). We signed up for our next class. The thrill of being able to do something physical while still enjoying myself was exhilarating! After meeting with Grand Master Steve, we (myself, my son, and my daughter) signed up to start working towards our blackbelt. This has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. My family faithfully attends classes each week. We work on skills at home, too. We discuss our dreams and goals of becoming blackbelts. We also discuss the practical skills we are learning on our journey to becoming blackbelts. For me, one of the most important concepts I am learning is the act of perseverance. Many times during class I feel like I can’t do it anymore…but then I hear the 3 most powerful words echo in my head that we review at every class: YES I CAN! I also want to give credit to the sensei’s that teach the classes. All of them are living examples of what we want to become. They are all great role models for not just myself, but me kids as well. My daughter actually wants to be just like Sensei Sarah when she becomes a blackbelt! The Sensei are great at teaching the skills on multiple levels. As a result, it is easy to follow and learn. All of the sensei’s use positive reinforcement! This helps someone like me continue to give my all even when I don’t know if I can (YES I CAN)! I have gained a better attitude towards life and physical activity. I have gained control over my fear of failure. I have gained humility in accepting help. I have gained encouragement from seeing my fellow students succeed and earn their belts. I have gained friends. I have gained a vision for a better me.