First I am thankful for my very supportive family who is always there to encourage me.

I am thankful for Iron Dragon and all the families that have played a part in my life.

I’m thankful for all the students, from the youngest white belt to the oldest black belt, and all that they put into their training and then give back to the school.

On another note, I am thankful for the men and women that risk their lives to give us the freedom we have in this country. Several of my friends will not be here for Thanksgiving, friends that have always been present to make me laugh, because they are serving us and our country in various places in the world.

Thank you to my teacher and mentor Master Mickens for all the time you have spent teaching me, not just in martial arts, but in my everyday life.

So I ask all the students to think about what they are thankful for and to share it with their families and friends during this Thanksgiving season.

… D. Mayham