A Black belt is, above all, a symbol of years of hard work, dedication and committment, and will always remain as one of the achievements of a lifetime.
Color belts are belts earned prmarily for effort in the early stages and later for competence in the belts leading to Black. A Black belt can't alone be gained by following a written list of requirements, and they should be considered as a guideline only. The degree of respect, humility, honor, and obligation honestly shown by the student, as well as the measure of the degree of proficiency and understanding displayed with physical technique, are decisions which ultimately must be made by the Master instructor. Unlike awards in sports and scouting, or degrees from College/Universities, the Black belt that a student spends many years earning the right to wear is that of his/her instructor, and represents an embracement of the philosophy of their school. This can't be "pushed" onto a student as a coach pushes a player to excell. There comes a time and level when martial arts students must posess the motivation and ability to "push" themselves, both mentally and physically.
Every aspect of a martial art has a deeper meaning behind it. Realizing this and being willing to wait are part of the eligibility for advancement to Black belt rank. Moreover, unlike the seemingly western point of view, a Black belt is a beginning rather then an end. It is a basic foundation from which to build upon in what is for some, a lifetime of study.
