Well, last night I was well prepared with to give a proper speech and thank so many people. That all went out the window when Wally took his belt off and put it around my waist. The level of meaning behind this can only be understood by martial artists with many years of experience. To say that this was humbling would be an understatement. First, congrats to all of those receiving stripes (degrees). This is a marker of growth and development. The 6 new blue belts. Wow, you have arrived guys! Tim and Bryan, congrats on the purples guys, you both earned them. Now...... Thank you to my parents for instilling values and ethics, to showing me true hard work and the value of never giving up. To my wonderful wife, for her support, encouragement, and tolerance. You deserve an award. Without you none of this is possible. To my kids for their daily inspiration, and wisdom. To my training partners, without your support there is no academy. To Bryan for his unquestioning support, his guidance over the years. Bryan and I have trained together since I started my journey, so we have shared a lot on and off the mats. To Chris Baker. Without this guy Im not quite sure where I would be. We have spent so much time driving all over this wonderful Midwest for tournaments, seminars, training trips. (if you want entertainment, ride along with Baker on a long trip, leave early). He has been a HUGE supporter of mine for many years. To Mack, Alan, and Rey. Thank you so much for being a part of this special day, and a part of my journey. And to Wally. There is no level of gratitude I could dream of showing what this belt means. I can only say Thank you. Ive tried to find the words, but I cant...Wally is more than my professor, he is a dear friend, mentor, a great role model. He, Lotus and the kids are my family. ZeroEgoBJJ is growing strong, and we will continue to learn, explore, and lead as we always have......THANKS GUYS!!!OSSSSS
Posted on: Fri, 02 May 2014 20:01:16 +0000
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