"Hi, Stella!" My kids squealed, smiling. "Hi, everyone!" I grinned back. "Let's go to the gym now! In a line, please. And don't take off your shoes yet." With that, I started walking backward, observing my students' gleeful walking. Perhaps they did not stay in a line, but they bubbled in conversation with each other and - if I was lucky enough - with me. I am the karate teaching assistant at the After School Enrichment program of my school district. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, I go to various elementary schools to instruct about fifty students in the first and second grades in martial art. In doing so, I form an invaluable bond with each student, helping to develop both their bodies and their characters. After taking off our shoes and socks and putting on our uniforms, we start with the Focus Game. As the master explains, "You must stand very still. Don't move at all. Let your mind control your body, not the other way around." A prankster inevitably asks if the group may blink and breathe; when given the affirmative, the group settles into silence. Each student tries, though a twitch of a tiny toe or a little smile spoils the game. Even then, the master reminds children that they do not have to give up simply because they fidgeted once. They can keep playing, practicing control. From there, we move on to knife-hands and eye-strikes, sidekicks and stomp kicks, oh my! The master teaches the first Form, which is a twenty-step pattern of blocks, punches, and stances. Only the students who practice, pay enough attention in class, and ask for help can memorize it. The zenith of self-discipline and self-confidence comes in a Test, where one student, watched by peers but aided by none, performs the Form without mistakes. Students who succeed receive an award; students who fail are applauded for their courage and told to keep practicing. As for me, I enjoy listening and teaching the students. I appreciate the opportunity to lead lessons. However, I truly treasure the moments where I can talk with them. Inquisitive, the students brighten my days with questions that demonstrate their grit. I realize I do not know all the answers, but I answer them. I listen and empathize. This exemplifies a leader: searching for the best solutions, gaining wisdom, and living by example. Indeed, I went through the same ordeals in the same program as a young, wide-eyed student, and I have risen to the second-highest rank in the program. Occasionally, leadership brings toils, like managing a bloody nose. When this happens, I remember that I am honored to serve this student, and I run for a paper towel in bare feet. Once the lesson concludes, we all stand to formally thank the master. Silently, I contemplate my future leadership goals: I can hold officer positions in my college's clubs; I can renew my participation in local social justice groups; I can even run for local office. However, I will never forget the kids who brought me to where I am, and for them, I am thankful.