Second Degree Blackbelt

My son earned his second degree Blackbelt two weeks ago.  I was really proud to watch him go through the 2 hour test.  I also wasn't sure if he would want to continue.  The classes are a big time drain.

It turns out, he wants to continue. 

I'm definitely going to support him (don't get me wrong, as a single mom with no child support coming in for the past 1.5 years, I definitely was looking forward to the money savings).   But here is the thing.  He loves it, and I personally think that the focus on Taekwando will keep his focus away from other things, like hanging out with friends in malls etc.  So the money is really a small price to pay.    If he wants to focus his energy on positive things, I'm certainly not going to stand in his way.

He even has a plan (a man with a plan.  I love it!).  He wants to work towards his next belt and in two years, apply for a job as an assistant trainer.  Not a bad idea at all. 

As I watched him receive his belt and bow to his instructor, I couldn't help but get teary eyed.  We have come a long way. 

And as we drove home that day, he held my hand and thanked me.  "Mom.  You supported me and encouraged me.  While dad deliberately made me skip belt tests just to be mean.  I know you called them and got them to schedule belt tests on days when we were with you instead of him so I could actually take these tests.  If it weren't for you I'd probably not even have my first degree Blackbelt"

And so, just like that, in one swoop, my heart melted and all was perfect in the world.  It is all worth it.