Reflection....

So it’s finally testing day!  I’ve been doing every poomsae and self-defense I know and trying to work on the details.  It seems the more I practice, the more mistakes I make and the more nervous I get.  I have to keep telling myself that I’ve worked hard, I know my stuff, and I wouldn’t be testing if I wasn’t ready.  (I wonder if they’ve done any studies on practicing/studying too much??) 

I’ve also been reflecting on my journey to this level.  I have so many people that have helped me on the way.  Obviously, I wouldn’t be here if not for Master Evins – his patience and encouragement kept me coming back to class!  Master Chin, she convinced me that Tae Kwon Do was something I should do with my kids.  My first instructor was Master Chelley, she helped me believe that I could do it.  Master Burkart – he taught me the Wang Ho forms and let me record him doing them, so that I could remember the steps.  Master Cavazos, who had one of the toughest jobs, that of being my mentor.  He always made sure I was ready for my test.  He constantly gave me his time and energy.  He was patient when I needed it and stern when I got slack.  Instructor Dege, who was always willing to be my self defense partner in class, and who was always ready to practice with me.  Instructor Tucker who is always encouraging and who agreed to let me toss her around on the gym floor.  Peyton, who made the journey with me through third dan.  Michaela, who helped me with my creative poomsae and the music.  And of course, all of the other Masters, Instructors and other students that have helped me along the way!