My most cherished memory of a strong spirit experience was when I received my Black Belt. My Master presented me with a special trophy award for my demonstrating a very strong spirit.

I showed this spirit in several ways. During classes, I always put all my effort into executing the many different kicks associated with Tae Kwon Do. No doubt my kicks weren’t always the most beautiful or perfect textbook wise. My age held back some flexibility that is always desirable. But, I did get the job done. What I lacked in flexibility, I made up for in desire and enthusiasm. And, my Master apparently appreciated that fact.

One of my biggest kicking challenges was the jumping front kick with board breaking. My toe was not very flexible. Consequently, it got in the way when I jumped high into the air and tried to break the board. Oh, I broke the board alright. I was always scarred to death I was going to break my toe. I never did. But, I often walked away from that exercise with a very bruised toe. I was always so pumped up with adrenaline during these board breaking contests, that I would have gladly driven that big old toe right through the board if that was what it took to break the board.

Tournament sparring was another activity were I exercised strong spirit. During one tournament, I came up against a guy who was 12 years younger than me and also more experienced. He was an instructor.

I figured I would have to be very aggressive in order to win the match. My straight forward aggression won me a “Tied” match. We both got lst place trophies which we were both happy with.(To be continued)Stand For Your Greatness