After his first lesson, the inexperienced Haksaeng felt he could accomplish anything.  The Sabumnim had told him the story of the Mountain and the treasures he would discover along the way.  He couldn’t wait to begin his journey.

Through the foothills he wandered, not really knowing what lessons the Mountain had prepared for him.

Suddenly, he froze, for what stood before him was an unbelievable sight; the seemingly endless Mountain extended from the ground beneath his feet, to the heavens above the clouds.  Overwhelmed by the magnitude of the challenge, he thought of quitting before he even started.  The first of many lessons was upon him; he had to change his attitude if he was to ever be successful.

So instead of staring at the top of the Mountain, the Haksaeng set smaller, more achievable goals.  Each goal he set was just within his reach.  With each accomplished task, the young pupil became more and more confident.  His belief in himself began to change; and slowly, the impossible became possible.

With each step, the Haksaeng’s self-esteem blossomed as he knew that the path he took was uniquely his and his alone.  However, what the Haksaeng didn’t know, was that the Mountain had many more lessons to teach; and that some were not as easily learned.

Suddenly, the ground beneath him gave way and he started sliding down a steep slope.  Engulfed in fear, the Haksaeng started to panic.  In the corner of his eye he saw a branch in his path.  He focused, and with excellent self-control, reached out, and was able to grab it.  Exhausted, he managed to regain his footing.  He was making so much progress, but this set back has made him question whether or not he wanted to finish his journey.  Bruised and battered, he learned yet another lesson from the great Mountain… perseverance.  He has come so far and when things get tough, he has to “dig deep” and press on… and so he did.

By this time the maturing pupil had learned a great deal of respect for the Mountain.  Each step he took was with purpose and discipline.  In a moment, everything could change.  But with strong habits and a humble heart, he could overcome any obstacle and reach his destination.

The dedicated Haksaeng finally reached the cloud line.  Not being able to see, he had to trust in the Mountain and the path it chose for him.  He did not know where he was or if he was near the pinnacle or not... but he continued to climb.

Growing weary, he sat to rest.  He closed his eyes as he struggled with the temptation of turning back.  However, after a few moments, his integrity over-powered his doubt.  He opened his eyes and with a warrior’s heart, he stood up… more determined to keep his promise than ever before.

And in that moment, something spectacular happened; the clouds that impaired his vision disappeared and there before him was the pinnacle of the Mountain.  All of this time, it was right in front of him… but without integrity in his heart, reaching his final destination would have been meaningless.

Now, with the sun softly warming his face, the wisdom of Shimsan was upon the humble black belt… and he smiled.  While gazing into the wilderness; the young black belt was amazed by its beauty and wonder.  Then he looked down the mountainside and reflected on how far he had traveled.  He was so proud.

For only those who have made this journey before him could truly appreciate this wondrous moment… and the moments which have yet to come.