Breaking Boards

Only two more people before it’s my turn… I stand nervous-excitedly, awaiting my turn to break a board.  My friends are scared and want me to go first, before deciding whether to have a go themselves. I glance outside to see my mom and other moms handing out donuts and lemonade.  People are also getting hand massages. My friend Annie is helping out with registration.
Now it’s my turn.  I am instructed to write a message on my board.  I draw a heart using a Sharpie marker. Sensei positions the board on cinder blocks. I raise my hand up and bring it down hard.  My board smashes beneath me. Feelings of satisfaction and achievement flood me. My friends realize that they can be successful too, and line up for their turn.  
It was a fun afternoon for my first fundraiser at the ZUltimate self defense studio where I learn Kempo karate. About fifty people came to break boards and we raised over five thousand dollars.