I Was Wrong

One upon a time, not so long ago, I had preconceived notions about children participating in martial arts.

For months my boys asked if they could take a class and it never worked out with our extracurricular schedule. R moved on to other interests, but P kept mentioning it. Because he is more of an introvert, I really preferred that he find a team sport to participate in--"to stretch him." We tried lots of things, but he didn't get particularly excited about any of them.

In mid-August I noticed that our local YMCA had Kung Fu classes, so I signed P up for a two week session. I really think I thought it would "get it out of his system." Instead, my P found his "thing." He absolutely loves it.
His confidence, his concentration, his agility and his self control have ALL improved.And today, my kid that had previously been unmotivated by other athletic pursuits...my child who tends to lose focus, get frustrated and fall apart...my son who takes the passive role within his sibling set...Today, my P, with great confidence, poise and skill tested for and received his yellow belt.Both sets of grandparents were on hand as we cheered him on. K & R were sweetly proud of his accomplishment. Tonight he was still beaming as he came downstairs in his pjs with the yellow belt tied over them.
My preconceived notions, hesitations and fears were wrong.

It won't be the last time.