Our first Black Belt test as Cutting Edge Kempo has come and gone, and I could not be prouder of everyone who did their part on Sunday November 15, 2015. Through all the muscle failure, cramping bodies, mental stress and hours upon hours of physical and mental pressure and non stop movement, you all emerged victorious. Even our one student who could not complete her test due to an unforeseen injury early on in the test should hold her head up high knowing even the few short hours she spent with us was tougher than what most people she knows could endure, and there will be another time for her, and she will rise to the occasion and perform as I know she can. I can not express how proud and elated I was when she walked through the door at the end of the exam to be a part of the ceremony for her brothers and sisters in the art. That is one of the hallmarks of the warriors we train to become.

Our panel of Black Belts did a fine job both judging and guiding the students through their experience, helping them along the way to better themselves and offering their knowledge freely to enhance everyone’s martial skill. It is good to have panel members who do not know the capability of each student, as we get a fresh perspective on areas that may need improvement as well as strong points for each individual. Thank you Grandmaster Fescina, Sensei Caracciola and Sandan Goldberg for joining me and my students for the six hours plus that was our first test.