A while ago I posted about one of my goals: achieving black belt.
Thankfully, I can now announce that I have successfully accomplished this goal!
Right before leaving on walkabout I undertook one of the most demanding trials I’ve every experienced–my black belt test in the martial art of Muay Thai, held over the course of three days at my gym, The Edge Martial Arts and Tumbling in Lynchburg, Virginia.
I wrote up some of my thoughts on earning a black belt and how it can transform you, and my article has been published by the fitness and martial arts magazine Breaking Muscle.
Here’s the article, especially if you want some motivation to embark on your own black belt journey: 6 Life-Changing Ways Your Black Belt Journey Can Transform You.
Earning a black belt is not a solitary endeavor–it takes a team, and I am fortunate in that there is no better team than the one at The Edge that supported me during my years of training. They say you are the average of the people you surround yourself with. I think that’s true, because when I’m at The Edge, I feel there’s nothing I can’t do.
Thank you to Coach Wil Dorsett and Coach Troy Champney for your superlative instruction, constant motivation, and relentless pursuit of excellence in all aspects of life.
Thank you to David Keesee for being an uber-partner and mentor and guide and friend through my trip along the martial path.
Thank you to David, Brett Jefferson, Jon Gonce, and Christian Booth for sparring with me for five rounds and making me earn that belt.
Thank you to Coach Mariah Dailey for your constant encouragement, ability to lead by example, and help getting people back up on their feet when they are down.
Thank you to all my Edge brothers and sisters I’ve trained with–you all pushed, encouraged, and motivated me into achieving more than I ever thought I could.
What a great family to be a part of.