Black Belt Essay – Micah Johnson
Martial arts were not something that I ever considered joining during childhood. I was
very active in baseball, golf, and basketball. So, it’s very surprising that now, in my 40s,
I am writing an essay to earn my black belt. This journey started when my 9-year-old
son began training at AKF Lexington. Sitting on the sidelines watching him, I thought I
could join in and help him along the way (little did I realize the foundations class is much
easier than the classes that follow).
Martial arts have been a challenge—and that’s exactly what I needed. It has forced me
to step outside of my comfort zone and try something I am not naturally good at. There’s
real growth that happens when you push yourself to do hard things, especially when
you’re used to excelling in other areas of life. Learning forms, mastering techniques, and
building strength and flexibility have all reminded me that progress takes time and
consistency. I’ve had to learn patience with myself, which, as it turns out, is one of the
hardest skills of all.
One of the unexpected gifts of this journey has been the community—especially the
group of dads (Dan, John, Billy, JC….) who train alongside each other. There’s
something powerful about being in a room full of people who are all trying to better
themselves, not for competition or recognition, but for their families, their health, and
their own growth. We cheer each other on, laugh through our mistakes, and show up
even when it’s hard. That kind of support is rare and deeply appreciated.
And perhaps most humbling is how often the youngest students become our teachers.
There have been more than a few times when a green or blue belt, barely taller than my
belt knot, has helped me fix a stance or reminded me of a detail I missed in a form. The
beauty of martial arts is that everyone—regardless of age or rank—has something to
offer.
Martial arts have helped me in life by reinforcing that growth comes through struggle.
It’s taught me to slow down, to focus, to respect the process, and to be teachable—no
matter how old I am. It’s made me a better father, a more patient person, and someone
who’s not afraid to start from the beginning.
Earning a black belt isn’t just about achieving a milestone. It’s a reminder that we’re
capable of more than we think—especially when we have the courage to try, the
humility to fail, and the discipline to keep showing up.
