This year marks the 10th spirit challenge in which I have had the opportunity to participate. What this really means is that I have been training for 10 years. Most of you know that karate is a big part of my life. What may come as a surprise is how much I owe to the practice of Seido and the community I have through it.  Beyond meeting great people and reaping the benefits of physical exercise, I have learned and continue to learn more about myself and my limits on the training floor. 
In addition to training for ten years, I have had to privilege of teaching adapted karate to kids who have to overcome physical challenges daily. Although I have not been able to volunteer in the past year, I carry the lessons of gratitude and appreciation I learned from them. 
At my first spirit challenge, I only did one event: the 1000 punches and kicks or the punch and kick-a-thon.  Since that time the punch and kick-a-thon was separated from the spirit challenge and made into a children’s fundraising event. This year, I am participating once more in the punch and kick-a-thon! 
So here’s the ask.  I ask you to give what you can to support this wonderful community that feeds my spirit – but also because—how can you not support an organization that has a mission to foster fitness, healing, empowerment and peacemaking by promoting healthy minds and bodies through violence prevention, self-defense and traditional martial arts programs for adults and children of all ages? Oh and we give scholarships for self defense classes…