And it goes like this:

Despite the early morning wake up calls and the hundreds of practices that left me sore for days, I miss you. I miss the rush of nailing a kick, that feeling of relief after running through my forms perfectly, and catching my breath after a particularly great sparring match. I miss being a leader and a teacher, but most importantly, I miss being your athlete.

I want to thank you for giving me both a powerful mind and body. For allowing me to figure out that humility and self control is something that cannot merely be taught. Thank you for the countless sore muscles, blisters, cuts and bruises: all slightly painful reminders that my body is constantly pushing its limits and becoming stronger.

Thank you for allowing myself to grow up in a competitive environment without preconceived gender roles. For letting the girl spar with the boys, for allowing mutual respect to form the core of teamwork in an individualized sport. For raising the standards of sportsmanship and what it means to be part of a team.

Thank you for giving me a way of life. That's the not so random thing about martial arts; once you start, the practice stays with you forever. I'm not just talking muscle memory here, it's about gaining a greater understanding of the individual's capacity to be resilient. No matter what the situation, every time I feel like giving up you remind me to work harder, to get the job done. That part of you will always stay with me.

You and I still function as one unit. Every time I step barefoot onto that wood floor, it feels like home. I gave you thousands of days of blood, sweat, and tears, and I still wouldn't have it any other way.

And lastly, thank you for creating a better person.Thank you for redefining what it means to be an athlete.Thank you for showing this girl that nothing is impossible.

Yours,

A black belt