How many of you have ever done something because of your interest in another person?

Thirteen years ago when my husband and I were dating, in addition to his job as a motorcycle Police officer, he was a Taekwondo martial arts instructor at CedarBridge Academy. I used to attend the sessions because I wanted to understand the sport and show interest in something he valued.

After two or three sessions, my then-boyfriend suggested that rather than just being a spectator, I should become a participant.

Now I am not an athlete, but I accepted the challenge. The twice weekly two-hour sessions pushed everyone to their limits. The physical and mental demands of martial arts are intense. Nonetheless, I persevered.

A year or so later, I was invited to try to qualify for my yellow belt, the next level up from novice. I had to perform certain routines, including breaking a board with my fist or my foot. I did not break the board on the first or the second try, but, on the third attempt, I tasted success.

The feeling of accomplishment was overwhelming. To this day, I still have that broken board and my yellow belt – both are important symbols to me of what I can achieve with positive support. That initial, positive support from my then boyfriend was critical in helping me to become the positive person you see before you today.

Be careful of the company you keep. It is better to have a few friends who will help you, then have lots of friends who will hurt you.