Why would a grandparent and other family commit to karate for a minimum of three times a week, plus many weekends for many years? Well, two reasons. One, nothing in this world is more important than our grandson Ethan, and two, we believed that Canada's Best Karate would do what they said they would; and they did. Both teams made a commitment to Ethan and then Ethan really went for it! He grew from a tiny three year old with his first headband to a young man with a Black Belt. It's what happened to Ethan between these two milestones that is really important. The learning that took place during this journey will last Ethan a lifetime. He developed his own great character based partly on what he saw in the character of his leaders - his Sensei's, his Sempai's and the kosans, now his peers. He learned commitment because he saw commitment from his leaders. He developed a discipline from the long road to his Black Belt in karate that hopefully will be there as he encounters other challenges in his life that will require discipline to succeed. He strengthened his self-esteem through his successes in karate and the support he was given and earned. The ever present lack of "stick-with-it-ness" in society is less for Ethan as he truly believed that quitting karate was not an option. As a young person struggling with making his own way in a big world nothing is more important than a sense of belonging; belonging to a group where you feel a connection; probably a lifelong connection. This would be one of the most treasured qualities that Ethan has developed. At Ethan's age his life is in front of him and his karate at CBK has been a base on which he can build this life. He has developed through teachings and his own hard work a strong sense of self-worth, commitment, loyalty, and the all-important belonging. It is hoped he will share his learning and instill these qualities in other children; and as well we hope he will transfer all these lessons and skills, and personal development from his martial arts training into his future. Sincerely, Gail (Ethan's Grandmother).