Winter Has Its Rewards

Back with both gratifying and exciting conclusions regarding this kid.

I felt my side of the bed, where I was already slipping into that luscious twilight sleep, dip suddenly.  When I opened my eyes, Son #2 was perched on the side.

“So, I had a reality check at work tonight, such as the one you were referring to earlier, Mom.”

Sidenote: My friend, Sharla and I were discussing the other day, the merits of an invention that would, at times like these, prop open the eyelids of mothers.  I digress.

Not to mention the fact that I was now wide awake.  “Really?  Do tell.”

“Well, I was called into the restaurant’s back office by the General Manager.”  Son #3, who has now balanced the dip by sitting on the other side of said bed.  “Man, oh man, I wouldn’t be able to help it!  I would immediately think I was in trouble.”  Perhaps there could be some habitual merit in that…just saying.  We’re used to these frequent and consistent interjections on his part, so #2 continues, unphased.

“He had a letter in his hand from a customer who visited the restaurant last week, picked up a ‘to go’ order, and got home; only to discover that it was wrong.  The restaurant had been very busy and he was furious.  He drove back down to point out a few things.”

The letter went on to state that upon his arrival, a young man with exceptional people skills had assisted him, resolving his conflict in such an extraordinary way; that he felt he needed to give the restaurant top reviews.  He also felt that due to the service he received, he should craft a letter to the office.  “Mom, that young man was me; and I didn’t even remember it.  I thought about what you said regarding perception vs. reality, and realized that I needed an attitude adjustment.  This pretty much brought it about.”

How many times has this been me? (Clearly, minus an incredible letter of commendation!)  Caught up in the circumstances of the moment, I suddenly see days, weeks, months and years through this limited tunnel of vision.  “I’m thrilled for you, son, and very proud of you.”

There was more to come.

For years, this kid has been faithful to “just work out.”  Since his early days, he hasn’t had a significant win in any divisions where karate is concerned. And he is faithful to complete a workout every.single.day. Rain or shine. Day or night. You get the picture. He is a visionary, in that he is grateful each and every time for the opportunity to become better. And he willingly pays the price. He is gracious when others place and hurries to offer congratulations.

I love this picture.

It speaks to years of sacrifice, commitment, and effort, with excellent being the major achievement.

So, when Son #2 executed his kata in the Black Belts 18-35 division, it was wonderful to watch the culmination of his efforts.  It was nearly flawless and appeared effortless because it was an extension of “just working out.”  The power and control were impressive, even to this mom who has observed more than a few of these gigs.

But nothing: Nothing could express the sense of accomplishment, pride, and achievement that the announcement of his name as the 2013 Pacific Region Black Belt Champion brought.

And just that suddenly, a hint of spring was present.

Be faithful. Persist. Embrace consistent effort, discipline and faith.

Spring is lurking right around the corner.

Be Sociable, Share!

•