I bowed then entered the dojo where a mirrored wall revealed an image of me dressed in a white uniform without a belt, ready for my first karate lesson. “Kiotsuke,” the Sensei ordered from his position at the front of the room. I followed the lead of the other students and lined up in front of the instructor, where we performed a series of bows. We then started practicing punching and kicking, and while I certainly performed the moves poorly, I enjoyed the physical challenge. At the end of the hour-long lesson, we sat on our knees and recited the Kun Dojo: "Seek perfection of character, protect the path of truth, strive to excel, respect others, and abstain you from any violent behavior. » similar lessons, I achieved my white belt; I was no longer without a belt! Unfortunately, I had to give up my martial arts training due to my busy schedule. I wish my school offered karate classes, perhaps for gym credit, so I could further my novice understanding of this extremely beneficial activity. I believe that participants benefit physically, mentally and s...