From White to Black…well almost (By Ethan)

  If you are an artist fan, you know that of course blue plus yellow is green, red plus yellow is orange and blue plus red is purple, or even all the colors added together is black.  But sometimes, mixing and getting new colors can be hard. Especially if you are taking classes in the Pride Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in Edmond. You will have to fight hard for all the colors, which happen to be surprise, surprise martial arts belts.

  The MMA center is a part of a long chain of many training centers. The inside is stifling hot, by hot I mean everyone is energetic. The facility is vast and roomy with a huge mat on which we run and jump and punch and kick while we train. Parents sprawl on sets of bleachers and watch us kids sweat by the gallon and our red and hot faces. The coaches there are quite strict and truly caring.

  Sparring and belt tests are the hardest.

  I punch my opponent.

  I think “Don’t give up!” I do a combo. Then a heavy right kick goes “crash” into my leg.

  I punch my opponent.

  A fast flurry of jabs and crosses meets my face. I return the same thing.

  I punch my opponent.

  The coach shouts “Time!” Feeling tired and dripping with sweat, I show respect to my rival and flop down beside the other kids who have fought before.

  Five years ago, I was a newcomer to the MMA. I was back then a white belt. Then, one test later, the white had yellow replacing it. Then it became orange, then purple, then blue, and now it is green. Although I have paid sweat and even a bit of blood, I have gained belts and excellence, perseverance and respect.

  Along the way to black belt, I will have to punch more and sweat more. But eventually, black belt will be within reach.