Every so often, something happens in the dojo that reminds me exactly of why I chose this path. This week, I experienced one of those moments — a story nearly two decades in the making.

Back in October 2006, I awarded a young student his yellow belt. I still remember the look of pride on his face and the quiet confidence beginning to bloom in him. Like many kids who step through our doors, he was learning much more than punches and kicks — he was learning focus, discipline, and respect. He continued progressing in his training through the years and became not only a very skilled Karate-ka, but also a stand-up young man. Then, life moved forward. Years passed, students grew up, and the dojo continued shaping new generations.

A week ago the phone rang, and a gentleman asked about having his four year old trying class. He continued and said: “Sensei I’m Abdiel”, I immediately recognized him, and asked him about his younger brother and sister who also trained with us back then. He was very surprised and said: “Yo DO remember me!” I said, “yes of course - It will be great to see you again”. A few days later, he walked back through our doors — now an adult, a foot taller than me, a father and a leader in his own family.

His little one isn’t quite ready to start yet, but they’ll be back soon. What touched me deeply wasn’t just seeing a familiar face — it was seeing how the lessons from years ago had carried into his adult life. He remembered his time here with warmth and gratitude, speaking about how karate helped shape who he became. Hearing that, after 19 years, meant more to me than words can tell.

Moments like this remind me that what we teach on the mat extends far beyond the dojo walls. The techniques may fade, but the character endures. Confidence, humility, perseverance, and respect — these are the real black belts our students earn over time.

As instructors, we don’t always see the long-term results of what we pour into our students. But every now and then, life gives us a full-circle moment like this — proof that the seeds we plant truly take root.

I’m incredibly proud of the man he’s become and I am honored that he thought enough of his training here to return and share it with his child. It’s one of the greatest rewards of teaching — to see our students grow, succeed, and choose to pass on the same lessons that once shaped them.

Once a student, always family.