Mrs. Poe’s Black Belt Journey

Every Black belt has a story to tell, and every story can inspire others to achieve their best. Here is Mrs. Poe’s story;

Master Helsdon:

All right, Mrs. Poe. So earn our black belt today. Tell us a little bit about your journey. What brought you in, what were you looking for and what did you find?

Mrs. Poe:

Okay. I came here because I wanted to do karate with my son and he’s still working on it. But it was nice that we could all interact as a family. And I think we found it here. We wanted a sense of community. A lot of martial arts places aren’t that way. I know that from experience and it’s just everybody is encouraging no matter what your physical ability is, based on age or injuries, et cetera. So it’s good.

Master Helsdon:

And how have you grown through your journey?

Mrs. Poe:

Just not giving up. I’m not giving up. I’ve been, what, six years now? And I had some surgeries and some, I think I was a red belt for 12 capes. So just keep on keeping on and keep pushing through and eventually get there. And it’s actually very good to keep limber and keep yourself from getting … You’re not going to keep yourself from aging, but maybe feeling the effects of aging. I think we all do that, but it certainly helps with flexibility and strength and all of that. Even though it isn’t what it once was. It’s still better than it could be.

Master Helsdon:

Absolutely. What would you tell an adult that was looking into the program?

Mrs. Poe:

I would just say don’t worry about your physical invitations. Do it for your own health and for your own ability and just do it to the best of your ability and you’ll get a lot out of it. And just don’t worry about comparing yourself to the flexible four year olds.

Master Helsdon:

How do you feel once you’re here?

Mrs. Poe:

Oh, it’s great. And what’s great is last week I was having a really bad day. I was really cranky, and I’m like, “You know what? I’m just going to go to Tang Soo Do.” And I felt so much better. You know. Stress of the day. And so it’s great to have that outlet.

Master Helsdon:

Awesome. Thanks. Congrats.

Mrs. Poe:

Thank you.