Honoring a Hero for His Black Belt Project

While visiting the local grave of Mr. Joseph Capron, a Patriot of the American Revolution, it was disheartening to see how disrespected this sacred space was. There was much vandalism, littering, and evidence of partying. Jacob was very sad. But his Black Belt spirit took over immediately, as he did not hesitate to say, "Well, we could clean it up, couldn't we?"

At the ripe old age of 6, he itemized the cleaning and safety tools we would need for the project, went shopping for them, enlisted the aid of fellow Mastery students (who just happen to be his dad and sister), and planned the project for Memorial Day. The area was heavily strewn with glass bottles and paper wrappers, such as fast food packaging. There were also larger plastic vessels and some other cardboard and paper debris. Jacob's dad supervised the removal, and the three of them set to reverently sorting through the trash. They did not touch the stones, or attempt any reparative work on the vandalized stones. In fact, it is difficult to tell which are vandalized and which are just crumbling from age. They also did not remove the leaves as this graveyard is kept in it's natural and historical setting.

It should also be said that there are people dedicated to doing all they can to maintain the RI historical cemeteries. This site has been cleaned previously, and the sign has been restored. We respect and appreciate their work and dedication. Jacob's efforts are only a personal endeavor to assist and to pay respect to Mr. Capron and all those who bravely served alongside him, and since to establish and protect the freedoms we enjoy today. He does this to honor his Black Belt Training, and live out the principles taught through Mastery.