After watching close to 1000 students learn to tie their belt, I can honestly say there probably aren't many experiences that evoke the same emotion or confidence.  Sure, testing for future belts, winning tournaments and trophies are terrific, confidence boosting experiences.  However, there isn't anything quite like learning how to tie your own belt.  It gives the student the sense, "I belong," or "I am a REAL martial artist now..."  it reminds me of the belt of truth the Bible speaks of, where we are to literally "put on" the armor of God each day, and pick up our cross and follow him.

Tired.  So tired.  Just let me rest.  Breathe, remember to breathe.  It’s an hour and a half into the second day of black belt testing.   I want to quit.  After all, it’s all about the learning experience.  Who needs the belt?