Kari Larson
9/21/2024 was a day 7+ years in the making. I showed up the morning of my test promising myself I would do my best, and most importantly, I would have fun. I was so nervous, my lips were turning blue, and I was so exhausted I could barely lift my hands by the time I got to sparring. When it was over I knew I had brought everything I had onto the mats.
Since that day I’ve looked for ways to fill in this new belt. They say black belt is only the beginning. I can now understand why that’s true. It is now that I’m seeing patterns emerge. I’m discovering, for myself, how it’s all connected. I’m exploring ways to expand my understanding of this vast, intricate system and how to make it my own. There is always more to learn, discover, and explore.
I also want to give a huge shout out to my sisters and brothers in Kenpo. They have seen me at my best and at my worst. They’ve encouraged me, supported me, picked me up, and cheered me on. They are my training partners, friends and family. To Kelly Plucinski, Daren Taylor, Jamar, Cevin Middleton, Armine Sanosyan, and Bz Shorts, thank you for donating your time, knowledge, and bodies to help me prepare, not only in the weeks leading up to the test, but over the last 8 years. Extra thanks to Jamar for taking my hits during my test, I did not give you light taps my friend. To the guest instructors I have had the honor to work with over the years, thank you for sharing pieces of your training and wisdom. Special thanks to Angelo Collado, A.j. Collado, Anthony Angulo, Damian Abbott, Juan Serrano, and William Glenn, you guys have all deeply impacted my journey and Kenpo in wonderful ways. You have shared your insights and skills with me and I am honored to both learn from you and share the mats with you.
Lastly to Donnie Jeffcoat, Jared, and Gabe. You three have been my sensei’s from the beginning. Your signatures are on every one of my certificates. You have seen and taught me through it all. Your guidance means the world to me. I am beyond grateful to be your student, I can’t imagine having to do this journey without you guys.