The school has an unprecedented number of girl members. It is so nice to see that girls want to participate in the martial arts and no longer think it as a "boys only" domain. This past year the number of girls in my school doubled surpassing the boy student body, making it a 2 to 1 ratio for a while. The class is now about 50/50.
I also want our school to be more than just a martial art school. I envision the school as a place akin to a community center that offers special events, enrichment classes, and happenings that will excite and build a bond between the students and the school. I want it to become their club, another nurturing and safe place to be, a highly positive environment, where creativity is always encouraged, and a freedom to be themselves a must.
I decided to offer a class and invited the girls to my first craft party. Fourteen girls showed up and it was a blast. It was a whirlwind of activity. As I was helping Samantha with her project, my attention was suddenly drawn to the background of voices, the din of activities, the girls engrossed in their projects happily creating, the excitement and positive energy that was all around me.
I felt so fulfilled and happy. It was a happening!
I looked up to see the girls in groups all over the floor, at the painting table, at the ribbon table, making their choices and complementing each other. I saw my helpers, Amy, Evelyn, Tessa, Alyssa, and the other moms that were drawn to stay helping the girls with their designs. Grandma G. sitting on the floor using a hair dryer to help dry the paint more quickly with three girls around her watching. Mrs. M with a constant tear of joy in her eyes, bless her. Everyone happily working, being creative, using their hands, creating their own style and thoroughly enjoying the party.
It's still all kung fu to me. It's a way of expressing oneself - honestly. Each girl showed off her personality and individuality in their pieces. I was amazed that six year old Samantha was so positive in her choices, never asking me for an opinion on what to do. She picked out everything and proceeded to tell me how and where to place her design.
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| Amy and I helping the girls with the sewing machines. |
Then of course we just had to have a runway show. It capped off the event beautifully. I created a wonderful memory for myself, one that I know will stay with me for a long time and I hope will stay with everyone who was there.
By the way, ignore the woman with the two left feet that falls down at the end of the video.
Now what to do with the boys.....
