This is for Levi. I'm writing this on the night that you achieved your 2nd degree level 3 belt. A fairly standard testing in many ways. But I feel like I should capture the thoughts that go through the mind of a dad when this kind of thing happens.
I am acutely aware that these words, as will the words on every post, will one day be read when I am not here. Not sure why I'm writing this one down specifically with that thought in mind.
Tonight, again, you pushed the board breaking with one break waiting to the third attempt. The last chance. And you broke it. But tonight something was different. Parents were invited on to the do jang for the final PT (not sure they call it that) test. I guess it's physical test or something. I came out to you and made a joke about pushing the board break, and you laughed like it was no big deal. I watched you earlier tonight laughing with your friends, cheering others on. You approach things with an ease that I admire. You set out to do your set of push ups, etc. and gave an effort greater than anyone else on the mat. It's not what your accomplish in your life, it's how you accomplish them.
Speaking of accomplishments, burpies and whatnot in PT make for some great pictures.
Tonight I was reminded of last Saturday when your test prep was witnessed by your grandfather. It was the first time I think I ever showed you off, so to speak, in front of someone else. You work hard and put forward an effort that is noticeably more than others. When you want something, you make up your mind and you get it.
You make me so proud. Part of it is your accomplishments. But more than that, it's your attitude as you achieve. You work hard and you are kind to others. You are growing into the young man I always hoped you'd be.
Eva, I know I will one day write something just for you. Perhaps on a day when you perform aerials for the first time, your next straight A report card, who knows. The way you move up levels seemingly every week my money is on something aerial.
I am acutely aware that these words, as will the words on every post, will one day be read when I am not here. Not sure why I'm writing this one down specifically with that thought in mind.
Tonight, again, you pushed the board breaking with one break waiting to the third attempt. The last chance. And you broke it. But tonight something was different. Parents were invited on to the do jang for the final PT (not sure they call it that) test. I guess it's physical test or something. I came out to you and made a joke about pushing the board break, and you laughed like it was no big deal. I watched you earlier tonight laughing with your friends, cheering others on. You approach things with an ease that I admire. You set out to do your set of push ups, etc. and gave an effort greater than anyone else on the mat. It's not what your accomplish in your life, it's how you accomplish them.
Speaking of accomplishments, burpies and whatnot in PT make for some great pictures.
Tonight I was reminded of last Saturday when your test prep was witnessed by your grandfather. It was the first time I think I ever showed you off, so to speak, in front of someone else. You work hard and put forward an effort that is noticeably more than others. When you want something, you make up your mind and you get it.
You make me so proud. Part of it is your accomplishments. But more than that, it's your attitude as you achieve. You work hard and you are kind to others. You are growing into the young man I always hoped you'd be.
Eva, I know I will one day write something just for you. Perhaps on a day when you perform aerials for the first time, your next straight A report card, who knows. The way you move up levels seemingly every week my money is on something aerial.
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