"Fear . . .It can hold you back or drive you forward"

[Emil Ramos]

     I got my you know what served to me at Ramtown Karate tournament this year. Too bad it was my last tournament for a long while. In kata, I went up against a longer, better and more sophisticated kata. I did a fast, snappy kata which is Chinto. I found out I have a lot of practice to do. Next year I am planning to do Kusan Ku and my bo kata which is spelled like Toke no me no koon or something like that. Point system isn't my favorite because how they score and how I am supposed to fight. I was eliminated in the first round. 

     I learned a lot of lessons which can sometimes be even better for a martial artist than bringing home medals. I learned acceptance and humility. I learned to improve my kiai and I learned I need to practice how to fight bigger opponents because most of the world is bigger then me. But at the end, I know that I did well and I am proud of myself that I did it because before I really didn't want to. 

     Since it is Thanksgiving, I am very thankful that this test is almost over. I also am thankful for my awesome karate community, my Sensei and the fact that I have two great people that drive me around to my tournaments and classes, my Chauffeur and Butler. Happy Thanksgiving.