Happy Mother's Day!

As I sit in my office waiting for our first class of the day, I'm looking out toward the front window of the school. There, I see running toward the door, this tiny four year old girl, Vivian, her hair made out in pigtails, all dressed up in her Karate uniform and impeccable from head to toe. Walking a few steps behind, with a big smile, is mom carrying her daughter's karate belt and water bottle. With great effort Vivian opens the front door to let her mom in, and as they both walk into the school, I can hear the excited little girl talking mom's ear off about something I could not understand, but which was obviously very important to her.

I was caught by the simplicity and purity of their interaction. The child, completely reliant on mom and obviously well cared for, and in turn the child finding a way to show her appreciation by opening and holding the door, then continue to pour her heart out to mom, and she patiently listened and smiled.

Not sure why, but it made me reflect upon the relationships we all have with our mothers. How wonderful would it be if we could always maintain that child-like innocence toward our parents, and especially toward mom.

I see a lot of moms come into our Karate school, some bring their toddlers to class, some their teenage son or daughter, others are grandparents and even aunts that have taken on a mother's role. Each family has its own individual story, unique to itself, but the common thread among them, is the love and care these women have shown, and continue to show for the children under their wing, day in and day out.

As I grow older, I also realize that this time it is my turn to listen to mom, my chance to take her places, and to let her know that I will always care for her. If you still have your mom, I hope you will do likewise.

To all the mothers, my great respect and admiration for all the work, sacrifice, dedication, and love you have poured into us, your children. I only hope that we can repay you, even in a small way, by being the men and women you hoped we'd become. Happy Mother's Day!