Black Belt

 

Thursday Night in a small gym, a seven year old boy tested for a black belt. A task for which he had trained for over three years.

At the age of four Jarom joined Tae Kwon Do because it was the only activity offered for his age.

The first day of class he learned to do a jumping jack, and began the challenge of controlling his body.

As the weeks passed Tae Kwon Do became part of his life.

Soon enough it was obvious Jarom was a natural.

For the next several years he attended class three times a week and rarely complained about it.
As his body grew so did his self-confidence and ability. Every two months he tested for a higher belt and passed.

Preparing for the black-belt test took a lot more than just showing up for class. He studied at home to memorize forms, their names, kicks, combinations and much more. It was a mental test just as much as a physical one.

This day was his big day. One other student from his class was ready for this same test and the two of them began warming up as the gym began filling.

I can only imagine how this little seven year old may have felt seeing the room fill up with supportive friends: school friends, home teachers, missionaries, Primary friends and teachers.
This support meant much to me. Thank you to all who came; you helped make it special for us.

He gave them a show. He worked hard and stayed focused the entire hour and a half.

Black Belt achieved! And well deserved.

He left the gym wearing a black belt and carrying a-taller-than-Jarom trophy, and has an entire lifetime ahead to know he can do hard things.

 

Jumping dad and another student doing a flying side kick to break the board.

 

Nailed it!

 

 

Power Breaking. Five boards at the same time.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jarom when he started Tae Kwon Do in 2006.

Stay tuned for the video I am making....