It was a tough choice between two of my favorite images captured over the last week for my Project365. Both speak to me as a mother. But, I'm drawn to this photo in particular because enrolling Sophia in karate really has appealed to her rule-following ways. More than that, I just want her to know how to find and channel confidence through karate. This weekend she earned her yellow belt at her first karate graduation ceremony.

At the beginning of each lesson, and at the start of this weekend's ceremony, students repeat:

I am a leader.
I will try my best.
I will always give 100%.
I will not back down.
I will set a new standard.
I will encourage others.
I will step up.
I will STEP UP!

Imagine hearing a sea of kids shout this at the top of their lungs, and mean it! Imagine committing to this promise at the start of your day in the bathroom mirror.