Each of the kids��� tests were tough, in front of families and friends and peers, not only is their karate skills challenged, but also their ability to perform in front of a crowd, under pressure, and with endurance. Ashu had to perform two of her karate forms, demonstrate 1-10 blocks, discuss her short and long-term karate goals and show her self-defense moves. At one point, she started to cry because she could not get one of her defense moves correctly, but she hung in there and finally earned her belt.
Akshay���s test consisted of showing all of his forms and weapons forms learned up until now, including bow staff and kama forms. He demonstrated self-defense moves, 30 each of jumping jacks, push-ups, sit-ups and mountain climbers. Sparring was the tough one: structured one-on-one and one-on-two and then un-structured one-on-two (basically no holds barred). As a mother it was difficult to watch your little boy being beaten up with pounding fists to the head and elsewhere by another kid much bigger than him while yet another boy holds him down by sitting on top of him. Akshay had to get out, defend himself, un-aided and as quickly as possible. Akshay survived, struggling out but walking away proudly that day with a beautiful two-toned brown belt with a black stripe.
There were many tears: from the students, from parents, and even from Mrs. Geer as she talked affectionately about our family moving away soon and about how much she loves Akshay and Ashu. We will miss Geer and her family very much too. She served as an inspiration to my kids and to me, almost daily, we will be at a loss without her positiveness, warm personality and her glowing smile that was there no matter what day, what time, what else!