With a cynical smile on my face he gives me the Korean terms that I must know and be able to physically perform. I correctly translate the Korean into English and demonstrate the technique for the lower ranks. Move by move this continues with each technique getting harder and longer, slightly more difficult over time. As the ranks sit and I stand alone I knew the beast had me on the rope; but this day was mine and I would not be its victim. Clenching my fists tighter, “kiaping” louder and pushing harder got me through these most difficult techniques. I remember after an hour and a half of kicking and punching I had to do jump kicks, and jump spin kicks to test my endurance and to harden my spirit. Searching for aid, I only found myself alone in a most difficult situation I dug deeper and deep within myself and found my inner driving force my Indominatable Spirit. This level of self awareness pushed me and gave me the boost I needed to complete the overwhelming task at hand.

                I finished the techniques with ease and grace leading me up to my forms; which, by luck was my easiest and most understood task. Gliding through these patterns with pride and power there wasn’t a single mistake! Nothing was done wrong, no move was off, and no stance was bad; nothing was going to stop me from completing this task. Next we moved onto the personal self defense steps, at my rank it was my responsibility to create my own practical one steps; this was my domain as well only a sick, unrestrained mind could make one steps as damaging as my own; for I didn’t want to stop my opponent I wanted to damage him, teach him a lesson; stop him from doing it to someone else, someone weak and unable to defend themselves. My brutal one- steps were well received by the judges and I received great praise for my efforts. Lastly, it was time for board breaking; I knew my techniques well; I had three techniques in three situations; one board with a hand technique, a palm heel; one board with a kick, an axe kick; and a double board with a kick, a side-kick. The first two boards broke with ease shattering and splintering, the break sounds echoed through the building like a beast’s bones breaking. I spun around and prepared for the final two boards. Taking one quick practice shot I knew I was ready, as I kick the boards I “kiaped” louder than ever before like a battle cry used to intimidate an opponent. The boards shattered and fell to the ground from the sheer impact of the kick. We lined up quickly and I knew that my battle was over; the beast was slain, and had breathed its last breath.