When we moved to Greenville, we quickly realized they didn’t have the youth sports programs we had grown accustomed to in Rowlett. There weren’t city leagues and activities around every corner like there had been before.
But they did have one thing Ray had wanted Iyan to try for years…
Jiu jitsu.
The problem?
Iyan had absolutely no interest.
He didn’t want to go.
He didn’t want to “check it out.”
He already knew he was going to hate it.
Somehow Ray convinced him to try the free introductory class.
Fast forward eighteen months…
Iyan loves it.
It turned out to be exactly the right fit for him. He has learned discipline, confidence, and perseverance. Even though he’s one of the smaller kids, jiu jitsu has given him a place where heart and determination matter just as much as size. It has been so much fun watching him grow—not just in the sport, but as a person.
Of course, a lot has changed in those eighteen months.
Somewhere between earning his white belt and working toward his grey belt, my little grandson became a teenager.
Now he’d rather spend time in his room with his phone or Xbox, talking with his friends online. The nightly hugs and kisses before bed have quietly disappeared. That’s exactly what teenagers are supposed to do. They’re becoming independent.
I understand it.
But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t miss those little moments.
Then came the Fourth of July.
The dojo was holding its belt promotion ceremony. We weren’t sure what to expect. We thought Iyan might earn another stripe on his white belt, but we really didn’t know.
When they called his name, I hurried down to the front to take pictures.
To our surprise…
He wasn’t receiving another stripe.
He had earned his grey belt.
I was having one of those proud-grandma moments, beaming as I watched him standing on the stage. Seeing all of his hard work pay off made my heart so happy.
But the best part of the day wasn’t the ceremony.
As Iyan walked down the stairs, he came straight over to me and wrapped me in a hug.
Right there.
In front of everyone.
For a teenager, that’s no small thing.
For just a few seconds, I wasn’t thinking about pictures or belts or who was watching. I was simply enjoying one of those unexpected moments that remind you how quickly kids grow up—and how much those little displays of affection mean when they happen.
I honestly don’t know who was more excited…
Iyan because he earned a grey belt.
Or me because I got a hug.
Sometimes the biggest rewards aren’t the ones handed out during the ceremony.
Sometimes they’re the ones waiting at the bottom of the stairs.
When was the last time a small, unexpected moment meant more to you than the big celebration? I’d love to hear your story.
With love & glitter,
Valerie ✨
Feathers and Phases 