The 2010 student and staff plaque is in (posted in the courtyard).  I look forward to an even larger photo event next year as more of our students choose to participate!

I thought when I joined RPKC that I would get a good workout while learning a little self-defense.  Little did I know that training would become so fundamentally important to me or that the lessons I learned on the mat would translate to every aspect of my life.  March celebrates my first year training and while I have only just begun this journey, I already know it will be one of the most important things I do in my life.

One of the things I noticed immediately about this school was the level of respect shown to all, students and staff alike.  I could feel instantly that the respect given here wasn't demanded or just a social nicety, but rather something far more heart-felt.  After my first class I immediately respected anyone that had the stamina to attend classes here regularly.  I was shocked by how sore and exhausted and yet exhilarated I was.  I then realized the basis for the mutual respect in the air. The commitment made by each person just to walk through that door day after day was more effort than most people put into their entire day.  I also learned of Master Rifkin's life-long commitment to martial arts and the journey of each of the Black Belts perfecting the same curriculum that I would attempt, and most importantly I was taught to respect myself enough to continue training.  To have so many accomplished and talented Martial Artists believe that each student is capable of achieving their goals creates a wonderfully uplifting environment in which anyone would thrive.  I appreciate and respect a training environment where students are not defined just by their belt color, but by their journey to Black Belt and by their dedication to perfection in all aspects of their lives.

Which brings me to today, exactly 1 year from the beginning of my Black Belt journey.  I have to say I most definitely did not make it this far alone.  I've had more support and encouragement in training this past year than maybe in my entire life.  That's why I'd like to thank Master Rifkin for taking his life's passion and creating a school where students learn beautiful forms, powerful kicks, practical self-defense, and to believe in ourselves.  In no other aspect of my life have I worked harder, cried more, bruised more or accomplished more.  Discipline is a requirement in martial arts training if you wish to accomplish your goals.  I feel so fortunate to be able to learn from so many talented Black Belt instructors.  Each has helped me and taught me lessons on and off the mat for which I am thankful.  Master Rifkin you have taught me to "flip the switch".  When I'm tired and my legs feel like concrete, I tell myself to dig deeper and I am always rewarded with physical proof that the hard work has paid off.  After training hard for just 1 year I see such a physical improvement but just as importantly to me is what this lesson learned has done to improve my personal life.  Just when I think I can't take another minute of work or family heartbreak, I tell myself to "flip the switch" and find find another level of energy to pull myself through.  I've made huge strides in this past year dealing with family issues and have been bettered by my ability to stay focused and committed to making a difference.  To all of the Black Belt staff, I thank you for walking this same road before me and for sharing with me your struggles and accomplishments.  You've taught me not to fear failure, but rather that it is a necessary step on the long journey to perfection.  I am proud of myself and what I have accomplished with your guidance and I wish to continue my training as an advanced belt.