Grading

The grading paper is received and it’s going to be a month away. Uncertainty rises and thoughts about progress and accomplishment swarm the mind. They’ve taught me so much, what if I don’t remember the name of the block or strike? What if I’m nervous and screw up the moves? What will I do if I fail?

As time passes and practice continues, new thoughts of how to perceive a grading awakens. Surely there’s something about it that serves to help a student grow. It can’t only serve to impress or rise in ranking. Why am I aiming for perfection? Perfection isn’t even possible. There’s no way of knowing what that day will be like. Maybe the grading is to test my will. I will learn to control my nerves and use determination to be my best.

As the days draw nearer, the purpose becomes more apparent. The moves to improve, the accomplishments to gather and the determination to be. The journey began with the goal to earn the next belt, yet offers opportunity to realize where I am, where I want to be and where I can be. The nerves no longer express fears of failure, they buzz with excitement to express who I am today. This is who I am and this is the best I can be. Nothing else will have the power to perfect my grading.

A grading isn’t only be about having karate physically perfected or knowing all the terms, it’s a time to get comfortable and be confident in who you are and what you know. The grading, a time to feel the excitement of accomplishment, express who you are and create new dreams for tomorrow. Go forth with excitement and enjoy the test; as long as you’re trying, you will be your very best!