By William G.W. Maitland
When I started karate nine years ago I perceived people who had a black belt with awe and a sense of mystery. What ancient secrets did they possess? What mystical powers did they command that would give them superhuman strength? Over the years, much of the mystery surrounding a black belt has vanished, however, I still perceive those who have their black belt with a great amoundt of admiration and respect. What ancient secrets do they possess? The knowledge that the only true path to success is hard work, day after day, and that when you think you have mastered a technique, you must keep working to make it better. You can always find another application or meaning for each move you make. What mystical powers do they command? The dedication and perseverance required to complete the journey, no matter how difficult the path may be or how long it takes.
The road taken towards achieving my black belt has been a fantastic journey. A journey made all the more special by the fact that I have been able to take it with my daughter Megan. Each day in the dojo has been an opportunity to grow closer to Megan and all the other members of my martial arts family. I didn't really know how important the people I have trained with had become to me until I stopped and reflected on the time we have spent together. My Sensei's. especially Sensei Noonan, have expertly and patiently guided me along my chosen path. They have shown me the direction, and provided me with unconditional encouragement to help me achieve my goals. My fellow students have shared in my frustrations and joys as, together, we have encountered new obstacles and fought to overcome them. Although the work that must be done to achieve my black belt is in many ways a solitary effort, where I alone am ultimately responsible for putting in the time and effort required to be successful, the journey towards my black belt has been taken with many different people. I never could have gotten this far without the support and encouragement of Megan and everyone else at the dojo.
Sensei Noonan has asked the question: "Is this the beginning of the end, or the end of the beginning"? I have known for quite awhile now that, although getting my black belt will be a great achievement and honour, it is just another sign post along the way, indicating that I am heading in the right direction. Nine years ago, when my quest for a black belt began I looked up from the base of the mountain towards the top and wondered what it was like up there and if I could ever make it to the top. As the years went by, I slowly climbed the mountain, enjoying every sight and sound along the way. Now as I near the top and get closer to achieving my black belt, I can see things more clearly. As I take my final steps toward the peak and stand looking out, I realize that there is not just one mountain to climb, but an entire mountain range to be explored, and my heart is filled with joy to know that, although this is the end of the beginning, my journey has just begun.