The Belt

John got mugged while walking through a rough neighborhood and decided he would never let it happen, again.

Around the corner from his apartment was a dojo whose sensei was world-renowned, both as a competitor and an instructor.

He walked into the dojo and asked to buy a black belt.

"I don't sell black belts, here," said the sensei.

"I heard a black belt can make me feel safer on the streets," started John.

"People who have earned a black belt," said the sensei, "do tend to feel safer. That's true."

"So, let me buy a black belt from you. I promise. I've earned every penny I made."

"I'm not sure you understand," said the sensei. "It's not owning the black belt that makes you safer."

"I know," said John. "I have to make sure I wear it, every day."

The sensei sighed and shook his head. "No," he said. "The belt is just a symbol of what you have become after years of training. After you earn your belt, you still need to practice regularly to keep in shape and to maintain your discipline."

John screwed up his mouth and nose.

"Hmm," he said. "That sounds like a lot of work. Isn't there something you can do to just make me good at defending myself?"

The sensei smiled and said "You passed the test."

"Here," he added as he untied his belt. "Put this around your waist and wear it all the time."

John smiled and said "Thank you!"

"Don't thank me," said the sensei with a smirk. "You deserve this."