I'm a 30-year-old woman who has had some pretty rough experiences in my past, but I've managed to find solace and strength through karate. Ever since I was 18 years old (like the drawing you mentioned), I've been practicing martial arts as a way to cope with trauma that occurred during my teenage years.

The event that triggered me to start training seriously in martial arts was when I was kicked in the head by a man while I was still wearing my bright yellow pantyhose. I remember it vividly - it was like time slowed down, and all I could see were his feet flying towards me before everything went black for a few seconds.

After that incident, I realized that self-defense was crucial for any woman. So I started attending karate classes to learn how to protect myself in case something similar happens again.

I found solace not only in the physical aspect of martial arts but also in the mental discipline it requires. Through my training, I've learned how to focus and center myself amidst chaos - skills that have proven invaluable in both my personal life and professional career.

Nowadays, you can often find me practicing karate at a local dojo or teaching classes to other women interested in learning self-defense techniques. It's been an incredible journey so far, but I wouldn't trade it for anything – the physical strength it gives me is only matched by the inner peace that comes from knowing I'm capable of defending myself and others.

I hope we can chat