I am Parker Reyes.  This journey has been both challenging and enjoyable.  A challenge for me was the 3-minute plank.  As a personal goal, I went home and accomplished the 3-minute plank without touching the ground.  I enjoyed the format of this testing schedule.  When I tested for my 1st degree Black Belt at my Knoxville karate school, we did it in one exhausting day.  Testing throughout the week allowed me to rest and review for the following days requirements.  I feel that testing for my 2nd Dan I am physically stronger and more mentally prepared.

I have learned how important breathing is for self-control and relieving stress.  In our Black Belt class Mr. Matt taught us that our body cannot tell the difference between physical stress and emotional stress.  When you breathe while under physical stress, you will train your body to breathe under emotional stress.  This will help me control my actions and be able to act in a more rationale way while under stress.  I would like to thank the instructors for the time they took to lead me through this journey.  I would like to thank my mom and dad for their support and helping me achieve my 2nd Dan.