Hi Kaitlin,
I dont view wearing a hakama as a "gift". With it goes responsibility, not arrogance and pride. My comment that I am leary of wearing a hakama as a kyu grade is due to issues such as ukemi (when the customs are the same from one dojo to another), tripping on the material, and ego. Anyway, if you want to discuss this with me off the BB, I would be happy to. My email address is:
rachmass@provide.net
Best,
Rachel