For me, Taekwondo hasn't been a simple hobby, sport, or entertainment. It has been a valuable education and training throughout my entire life.

 

I can clearly recall the first day of learning Taekwondo. Starting Taekwondo on my best friend's recommendation, I thought I would probably be killing time and having fun with my friends, like we normally did during PE class. However, it soon turned out to be a misconception.

Entering the Dojang (training hall), I was stunned to watch other pupils performing their precise dance moves, punches, and kicks. Also, all of their fancy-colored belts, which were in sharp contrast with my plain, white belt, made me concerned about whether I would ever be able to become like them.

However, it didn't take me a long time to learn that all I needed was passion and endurance to start with the basics. Constantly repeating the process of training, meditating, and sparring, I got to discover and develop a lot of strengths that I have been lacking so far. Amongst them, concentration and confidence were the two biggest strengths that I've gained. Every time I carried out a movement or did a sparring with someone, I had to do a 'Kihap' (a basic technique in Taekwondo). By meditating for a short moment and expressing my strength by yelling, I could progressively achieve the confidence to yell loudly and demonstrate my assertiveness. I believe the concentration and confidence that I gained from especially doing this movement, would have benefited both my personality and social life, since became more focused, assertive, and organized not only impacts others but also myself the most.

 

To sum up, now as a 4th Degree Black Belt, I look forward to continuing doing Taekwondo and constantly learning new techniques. Each class and match of Taekwondo not only enhance my strengths but also provides a pathway on how to become successful in my future life.

 

These of some of my photos and video of training and taking the Taekwondo promotion test for the 4th Degree Black Belt: