I haven’t posted about this yet because it’s been something very personal to me and even I wasn’t sure I would be able to complete the journey. But, as of Saturday, I can now proudly say that I am a newly graduated Yellow Belt in Karate!! Unbelievably, quite a few months ago, Jake’s karate school, Level 10 Martial Arts College, extended an offer for parents/family members to take class... I entered the post and was given this incredible opportunity. To say that I was nervous about beginning classes was the understatement of the century. Master James Theros and Mrs. Debi Theros have created such a wonderful family and everyone has been so supportive, helpful, and encouraging. We have met so many kind people since being at Level 10, and we feel so lucky to now call these people our friends. The training has been hard and it has certainly pushed me farther than I thought was possible. I have really had to concentrate on the school’s mottos of focus, respect, and discipline each and everyday... and find new meanings of honesty, modesty, patience, and respect. It all has new meaning now that I am an adult and a mom!! My body and my mind have definitely felt some “growing pains”, but my flexibility and cardiovascular health have improved drastically and I’m down 12 pounds since I started classes. I even competed in the inter-school competition and was surprised to feel my competitive spirit come back with vigor! Most of all, I rediscovered something that has been absent from my life for a very long time... self confidence and pride. Anyone who knows me, knows the struggles I’ve been through and the personal hit my self esteem has suffered... this experience has shown me that I am far stronger than I believe and I am still worthy of wanting things for myself. I am ENOUGH and while I may still not look exactly how I want, my body is strong and able to do anything I ask it to do. I cannot begin to express how happy I am to have been given this opportunity... and more than anything, be able to share this with Jake. He looks at me in a completely different way now and for the first time, he has actually told me that I make HIM proud. I feel so blessed to be able to show him what kind of person I truly am inside and out... the way he looks at me now will be something I cherish forever. So thank you to Master James Theros and Mrs. Debi Theros and everyone in our new Level 10 family... we are beyond thankful to know you and be a part of this school. You have no idea how you’ve changed my life. I am a better woman, mother, daughter, teacher, and friend because of my time in karate!! Here’s to many more and better days at Level 10!!!

- Lani Preston Verified

Response from Level 10 Martial Arts College We are thrilled to have you in classes with your son! You two are setting new standards for our beginners:)