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we lost a generation

Rumble — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:45:35 +0000

To a lack of values, respect for tradition, and fear of consequence. I had this discussion with complete strangers.

Bridging with wrist locks

Robnj — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 13:59:46 +0000

Bridging with wrist locks:

I thought I would type this and hope it has dividends to the other readers. I won't have any picture examples because not may schools ever explore this option. but to give category pictures up front:

1) straddle
Mount (grappling - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)

2) kote gaeshi
Wristlock - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
go to "suprinating wristlock

3) kote mawashi (nikkyo in aikido)
Wristlock - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
go to adductive wrist lock

4) Kote hineri (sankyo in aikido) I couldn't find a picture of this wrist lock but here is a video of it standing:
YouTube - Sankyo (kote hineri)

As far as the applications of these for bridging the following I have found to apply:

1) You pretty much have to have a strong understanding of the wrist lock in general to make it work on the ground.

2) The locks when used in conjunction with a bridge won't result in a submission. The person being bridge instead will be encouraged to escape the lock by getting off of you.

3) Because the escape to the lock is to "de-mount" you the other normal pre-cautions like keeping them from posting a leg, or posting an arm, worry about his grapevines dont' really apply. You are using the lock to encourage him to get off of you by his own accord.

4) If he gets off of you (escapes) you will most likely lose the wrist lock.

kote gaeshi: This seems to work only if his hand is open. If it is balled up into a fist it is harder to work. I tend to get this when I have their hand resting on my chest or suspended in the air but find it much harder if their hand is in motion or resting on the ground. So for me the primer, of when this is applicable is 1) open hand 2) on my chest or in the air.

I take his hand and turn it over on my sternum and bridge in the same direction of the rotation so that my whole upper torso is aiding in the rotation of his wrist. What ends up happening is that the person getting kote gaeshi will either roll with your direction to take the pressure off of his wrist or will flip to his back ahead of your rotation for the same reason. You have to practice this sorta slow. You aren't gonna break anything because the person is not restricted from moving but spraining his wrist is a strong possibility of you rush this lock in training.

2) Kote mawashi . This is a wrist compression. I tend to only attempt it if his hand is on my chest, in the air but not moving (aka not punching) or if he is grabbing my lapel or wrist. It doesnt' matter if his fist is balled or his hand is open. I take his hand or wrist and place it on my chest in the wrist lock position and than sit up using my abs.

To escape this he can either free his hand from my grip or roll over one of shoulders. Most people even if they are attempting to free their hand will get up off you to take the pressure off their wrist. When they do I bump them with my hips as they rise and bridge. I almost always lose the wrist lock immediately when I do that. If they are able to stand before I can "bump them" but I still have their hand I will use my other hand to rebend their elbow by placing the blade of my other hand on the top of their elbow. As they move down from the arm bend I bump them with my hips and try the bridge again.

3) Kote hineri: I only attempt this if their hand is suspended or grabbing my wrist. It doesn't matter if the hand is open or closed. I take his hand in the wrist lock position and move it across my body. At some point he may post his other arm to keep from being dismounted. Either way if he isn't too strong I will put my other hand behind his elbow and push his elbow across while turning his wrist. If he has a lot of upper body strength I will keep a double hand grip instead. The object is to keep tightening the lock because it encourages him to either (1) roll off of you or (2) rotate off of you in the direction you are turning his wrist to take some of the pressure off.

If he rolls off you will lose the lock. He is rotates off you can keep turning the wrist to encourage him to rotate more and than either turtle to kneeling (or standing) of if he sits up as he rotates sometimes you can rotate up with him using the aikido shikko (Japanese knee walking) to complete the joint lock while kneeling. Not very likely though since he has plenty of chances to escape by getting off of you before than.

If you take the three wrist locks and put them together they represent three directions. If it is his right hand you are locking kote gaeshi goes to his right, kote hineri to his left and kote mawashi goes up and towards him.

Chen Style Taijiquan Seminar

kohyin — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 20:10:20 +0000

Seminar Schedule & Suggested Donations $50 per session

Session I July 1st (Thu) 5:30 PM ~ 8:30 PM Chen 19 Corrections
Session II July 2nd (Fri) 5:30 PM ~ 8:30 PM Laojia Form Beginning
Session III July 3rd (Sat) 9:00 AM ~ 12:00 PM Reeling Silk
Session IV July 3rd (Sat) 1:30 PM ~ 4:30 PM Laojia Corrections
Session V July 4th (Sun) 9:00 AM ~ 12:00 PM Intermediate Push Hands
Session VI July 4th (Sun) 1:30 PM ~ 4:30 PM Laojia Corrections with Applications
Session VII July 5th (Mon) 9:00 AM ~ 12:00 PM Advanced Push Hands
Session VIII july 5th (Mon) 1:30 PM ~ 4:30 PM Applications

Where: Saddleback College, 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Vijeo, CA 92692
Teacher: 陈炳老师 Master Chen Bing
Sponsor: Saddleback College Eastern Arts Club
Advisor: Chen Bing Taiji Academy (Los Angeles)

Register in advance for 6 or more sessions and get 1 free session.

Add additional 10% per session if donations made at the door.
Private instruction by appointment only

Please mail your registration and donations to:
Tai Chi for Health
PO Box 75364
San Clemente, Ca 92673
Make Checks payable to: Taoist Sanctuary
Make sure to write “Chen Bing Orange County” in memo line

Please contact: Troyce Thome at tthomer@gmail.com or 949-842-2992 for more information

Men of Honor?

Bohdi_Sanders — Sun, 23 May 2010 18:48:50 +0000

Men of Honor?

I have written many times about the difference in being a true warrior as apposed to merely being someone who is trained to fight or skilled at fighting. There is a difference in being a soldier and in truly being a warrior. This is not to say that soldiers are not warriors, but the fact that someone is enlisted in the military and receives a paycheck from the government does not automatically make this person a warrior. It may make him (or her) a fighter, but that is simply a fighter; it takes much more than martial skills to be a true warrior.

Think, feel, and act like a warrior.
Set yourself apart from the rest
of society by your personal excellence.
Forrest E. Morgan

If we examine history, we can find many good examples which illustrate what I mean. Let's look at Hector and Achilles from the Trojan War. Most people consider both of these men great warriors, but were they really? There is a great difference between these two. While it is obviously true that both of these men were skilled in the art of war and were proficient in their martial arts skills, they were very different men. If you were to see them both on the battlefield, you may be inclined to argue that there was no difference in them; they were both able to bring a world of hurt down on their enemy.

So what made them different? The answer lies internally. The difference in the two men is what sets the true warrior apart from the mere fighter. Think about what motivated each of these men. Let's examine Achilles' motivation first.

Achilles was motivated by fame and fortune. He trained and fought for his own personal gain. The reason that he and his men participated in the Trojan War was to preserve his name as a "great warrior" throughout history. This was not necessarily out of the normal for men during this time period; many men desired to obtain fame and fortune by their exploits on the field of battle. Achilles was no different. He greatly desired to be known as a larger-than-life figure, and he achieved his goal, as you well know. But fame and fortune were not the only factors which drove Achilles to use his martial skills.

The superior man seeks what is right;
the inferior one, what is profitable.
Confucius

Achilles also was moved by his emotions. After his cousin fell in battle, the enraged Achilles took his anger out on Hector. This was purely an emotional action, void of any rational thought. He simply did not care about the facts, about whether or not his cousin's death was just, or the circumstances surrounding his death. All he cared about was his own feelings, feelings which led him to act out of selfishness and revenge, not rational thought.

Remember to preserve a calm soul amid difficulties.
Horace

To summarize the factors which motivated Achilles' actions:

1) He was motivated by fame and fortune
2) He was motivated by his emotions
3) He was motivated by revenge

The common denominator in these three factors can be boiled down to one word - selfishness. Achilles was narcissistic. He cared little about anything other than his own desires. He wanted glory. He reveled in being thought of as the greatest warrior of his time. He spoke of honor, but his view of honor was warped. It is indisputable that he was a skilled fighter, but are these the characteristics of a true warrior?

Now let's take a look at Hector. Hector acted from rational thought in all of his actions. He was not motivated by what was best for himself, but was concerned about what was best for his country and his people. He scolded his brother for putting his own desires ahead of everything else, thus putting his countrymen at risk, and ultimately destroying them. Even in battle, Hector never lost sight of true honor, allowing his enemy to take care of their dead and injured.

The superior man does not give up good conduct
because the inferior man rails against him.
Hsun-Tzu

When Hector's brother was about to be killed, he intervened and did what was right, instead of what was expected from the protocol of the day. When Achilles sought Hector out for his revenge, with one command, Hector could have had Achilles killed without risking his life, but he met the situation with honor. Even in the face of insults and threats from Achilles, Hector kept a rational head and tried to make a pact of honor for the victor to respect his fallen opponent, a noble act that Achilles blatantly refused, ultimately disgracing himself in his tactless display of Hector's body.

The man of principle never forgets what he is,
because of what others are.
Baltasar Gracian

The differences between these two men demonstrate the differences between a true warrior and the mere fighter. It is the internal differences which matter in the end. The difference between Hector and Achilles boils down to honor and intention. Hector had true honor and acted with integrity and pure intention, whereas Achilles acted from a place of selfishness, rage and unbridled emotion. Before his death, Achilles seem to see the error in his ways, but we really don't know if he was acting from a place of honor when he saved Hector's cousin or if he was acting from a place of selfish desire.

For when moral value is considered,
the concern is not the actions,
which are seen, but rather with
their inner principles, which are not seen.
Kant

It is the character that makes someone a true warrior, not simply his martial arts skills. Martial arts/fighting skills are merely one component of the warrior lifestyle, not the be-all end-all. The true warrior acts from a place of wisdom, honor and integrity. He rationally thinks about this words and actions, before he speaks or acts. He control his emotions, instead of allowing his emotions to control him.

While Achilles saw the error in his ways, it wasn't until after his rage had subsided and he had taken the life of an honorable man that he saw his error. He allowed his anger and emotions to control his actions instead of his rational mind. His actions were not concerned with what was right, but only with what he desired during the present moment.

Although Achilles bested Hector in one on one combat, Hector was the better man and the true warrior. There is a difference in a fighter and a warrior. There is a difference in doing what's right and in doing whatever you feel like doing. There is a difference in real honor and in perceived honor. The difference originates from within the human spirit and is a conscious decision. Achilles was a great fighter; Hector was a true warrior.

The glory of great men must always be measured
against the means they have used to acquire it.
La Rochefoucauld

Be sure to check out my AWARD WINNING BOOK, Warrior Wisdom at: http://thewisdomwarrior.com

Bohdi
Warrior Wisdom

Survival

self — Wed, 12 May 2010 14:38:16 +0000

I was explaining the true nature of martial arts to a colleague yesterday and this is what I told him. I explained that the true purpose of martial arts was survival. In the early days of civilization, you could almost count on dying tomorrow. It was hard enough just to avoid disease and famine, but they also had to deal with brigands and barbarians, who's sole aim was to kill maim and plunder. These days it's about competition and physical fitness. This is not to say that there are no practical self defense techniques, I'm just saying, that if things were the way they were then our conceptions of martial arts would be different.
There are scores of people out there with black belts, but only a few understand what it is like to have to use it for real. A man that fights in a ring for the most part, really only understands the ring, a man that fights on the street only understands survival. If you pit the two against themselves the survivor will most likely win unless there rules imposed. I explained that all martial arts have meager beginnings and that they are the ultimate result of trial and error and countless losses and the will to survive. I believe that this concept has been forgotten and only a few are rational to separate the two.
I grew up going to racially static schools. I was one of three white kids in my elementary school so my mother decided it was time I learned to defend myself. I understand now what it was like for black kids in all white schools. I had to constantly defend myself. After high school, I started traveling for a living and the street fights reached a whole new level. It was no longer pencils and fists I had to worry about, it was guns and knives. I have the hardest time explaining my teaching methods, because I was taught by a green barrette, he was the one that taught me to survive, all the other schools that followed only offered limited versions of street defense and hand to hand combat, they were mostly performance based and were intended for the ring or had been made milder to fit the relaxed, American way of doing things.
We in these modern times, believe that martial arts are something solid, but the truth is, they have always been liquid. it is the person that says you have to do it exactly as I showed you or it will never work, that messed things up. If I don't learn how to make it random and if I don't take it seriously, it could very easily mean the end of my life. It is good to spar, but it is not good to use it unwisely. Look at Mohamud Ali, he is the perfect example of why you never let people hit you and that was the purpose of martial arts, never to use it unless necessary, martial arts are for fighting, not for show and not for personal gain.

My system

self — Mon, 03 May 2010 17:26:00 +0000

I have just added the, eight diagram footwork method from pa kua to my bag of tricks. That system of footwork is very hard to follow, although there are elements of it in other martial arts, nothing beats a system that is basd purely on footwork. I enjoy using my feet when I defend myself and by adding this footwork, my cresent kick has almost trippled in speed.
You know?... You see these movies where the guys just kind of stay in one place and throw a muriad of punches and kicks at each other, with out ever moving, this is not so now, but back in the day?... They had a profound effect on how we carried our martial arts in our youth. Only to find that it doesn't really work that way. Foot work is one of the first things you learn, even if you don't realize it, but that did not stop us from being stupid, it took a real life situation, for us to go back and redefine our system, or our way of doing things.
Besides, standing around trading punches sounds kind of stupid in it's own right. I would go so far as to say, it's difficult in it's own way, to throw a stryke and move at the same time, but most of the time, it is necessary. I would say that it is good advice to look into that systems footwork and adopt it, it will greatly boost one's speed and timing.

The expected result

self — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 14:21:23 +0000

When we make the decision to start taking a martial art, we expect results. It is this mind frame that nullifies the desire. The expected results are always going to be different from what we were looking for. It is because we put to much stock into what we will be able to do with it. I started taking martial arts because I was tired of being picked on and little to my dismay, it actually made the problem worse. No matter how many of your enemies you toss asunder, bigger badder enemies will always take their place. It becomes a matter of challenging a victor and proving that he is badder.
If there is no true expected result, the art will reveal itself to the student. There is no path set in stone, other than the path we wind. We all do what we know we are good at doing. I eventually came to a point where, it was all about the competition, knowing I was not meant for that environment, I found I was no good at it, I am a better teacher. I used my skills for self defense and the end result, I can defend myself, but I cannot conform to the ring. I targeted my study around real life, not the ring and in doing so, I ended up teaching self defense and not martial arts. What I am saying, is that there is a dividing line between Martial arts and street fighting and an even bigger gulf between that and self defense. Anyone can fight, but can you truly defend yourself.
The biggest misconception of all is, if I get a black belt, then I will be safe, or I'll be the best... That is not a realistic approach at getting the results you want. The realistic approach would be more like..., I'll give it a try and if it works it works, if it doesn't, move on until you find what does work. If there are no expected results, you will find there were results from the beginning, as opposed to the ladder, expected results, yield none. In the scientific community, expected results are the norm, but that does not apply to martial science, which has more spiritual rather than noticeable results. Many fighter's delude themselves, into believing that fighting is what its all about and others do the same at opposite ends of the spectrum. If the meaning is obscure, it will reveal it self. If the meaning is obvious, it will remain to be seen.

The Essence of Karate-Do

Hagakure1 — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 15:12:09 +0000

Chojun Miyagi Sensei had a clear vision of what Karate-Do should be. The essence of Karate-Do has often been misunderstood. What is the essence of Karate-Do? The essence of Karate is really not to become a great fighter for the sake of recognition, but rather to realize that a great fighter will understand the destructive force of his technique, and in that realization, he will be deterred from fighting. As fighting skills progress, one needs to adapt these skills to a disciplined and detailed mind-set. A great fighter who is devoid of discipline is a danger to himself and to others. That is why traditional Karate-Do kumite is phased in over time after many years of kata, bunkai, and kihon practice.

The essence of Karate-Do requires discipline and humility. These tenets are by far the most difficult to master. As one acquires more skill, the tendency is to flaunt one’s skills in public. This may be good for the ego, but deadly to the soul. Discipline and humility must always be in a state of perfect balance. Why is this so important? Genuine humility cannot take place if one does not exercise discipline. Everyone loves recognition and accolades, but although it may edify one’s ego, does it really change how you perceive yourself? Refinement of technique over time is what we all strive to achieve, but how you see yourself is what discipline and humility is all about. Humility can only be achieved if one has the desire to understand discipline. This will not happen overnight, but it is a continual process requiring a lifetime to master.

The essence of Karate-Do requires responsibility. Here in the United States, there are individuals who make Karate their livelihood. There is nothing wrong with this practice, but it is not the path that I have chosen for myself. Eiichi Miyazato Sensei of the Jundokan always placed life in the following order: family, job, and Karate. My personal order is: God, family, work, and Karate. Placing Karate above anything else is a mistake. The essence of Karate requires us to accept all of our respective responsibilities and to act upon them expeditiously. One should never proselytize in the dojo, but merely guide others to find to their own path “Do.”

The essence of Karate-Do requires us not to propagate ourselves, but to propagate the art. Why is this so important? Miyagi Sensei always stressed two things: one should not live from Karate, and Karate should be accessible to anyone who wants to learn the art. In the United States where the free enterprise system is the economic model, fortunes are often made in business on a routine basis. I have taught students who have been turned down by other reputable instructors simply because they were unable to pay. This is one of the primary reasons why I have a full-time job as a special education teacher. How can a person living the lifestyle of Karate ever turn a student away because their inability to pay for instruction? Do I make money from the martial arts? The answer is a definitive “yes.” However, I have many students who do chores around the dojo to offset the cost of their tuition. Karate should be available to anyone who wants to experience the path “Do” of Karate. Many instructors never fully understand the impact they make on their students. We serve the role of instructor, priest, psychologist, mentor, parent, and disciplinarian. Sometimes the only source of inspiration to a student is the sensei.

Lastly, the essence of Karate-Do entails the development of character. Gichin Funakoshi Sensei always said the most important aspect of Karate is the development of character. What is character in terms of the philosophy of Karate-Do? Character is simply exercising discipline, exhibiting honor, duty and self-control, and continually adhering to humility. The Japanese have an expression that says: kiritsu, ninmu, shi—discipline, duty, and death. Although this may sound feudal and archaic, it is nevertheless relevant to the modern practitioner. Without character and a strong foundation, nothing of substance can be accomplished. Winning championships is fun, having excellent technique is desirable, understanding kata and bunkai are optimal, but as wonderful as these things are, they should never replace a strong, disciplined character. Masters who have perfected character do not criticize others, nor do they seek the approval and admiration of other men, but rather exist to learn, teach, and develop in the way of karate-do.

Beauty and Perfection

Hagakure1 — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 15:10:08 +0000

Although the term beauty in Western thought denotes something pleasant to behold, in the warrior mind it conveys a totally different message. To the samurai, there was no greater and glorious death than to give his life for the ideals of their master. Through meticulous, ascetic training, the warrior practiced to perfect their craft. By living a morally correct life and to value the rights of the impoverished was to live Budo.

In a sense, beauty and perfection become one to those aspiring to live in the way of Karate. By perfecting movements, one is able to delve in the deeper meanings of kata. Kata is the vehicle by which one attains discipline. Although Jiyu-kumite is an important tool to test techniques in movement, it is nevertheless one tool among many used in Karate-Do to enhance proficiency. The cogent point here is that as one's physical skills diminish with time, kata is the sole vehicle by which an aging practitioner can continually develop and perfect movements. A true understanding of kata and bunkai is a skill that takes a lifetime to master.

In the continual attempt to perfect self, a practitioner is able to delve deeper into the tenets of Karate-Do, and to transfer these qualities to everyday life. To seek perfection of technique requires diligent practice and a clear mind. As technical perfection is achieved, this state of perfection should transfer to every aspect of one's life. Because one seeks perfection of self, one should be kind and considerate of others; one should impact the lives of others, and most importantly, one should prepare for the hereafter continually. As one perfects self, assist in perfecting those whom you touch. The true sensei is not arrogant or selfish, but wants everyone to prosper physically and spiritually as they prosper. Bruce Lee said it best: "the keys to immortality is living a life worth remembering." Once our individual journey is over, if people still give credit and respect to how we lived our lives, then the journey was certainly a productive one.

Lastly, never fear the unknown. God, in his divine providence and wisdom, has left the door ajar for all who seek his divine plan. Giving one's life for the master is glorious and inevitable--everyone will experience death at some point; hence, the glorious death is universal. In the end, we all will leave this world as we entered it--alone and helpless. It is, in a sense, the same for western and eastern culture. To define God is a personal matter, and should be an individual choice. Whatever the choice, strive to perfect self and others. Live beauty and perfection to the fullest extent.

The Issue of Rank and Longevity

Hagakure1 — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 15:08:21 +0000

For many years, the debate of individual rank and its relation to longevity has come into question. Miyagi Chojun sensei always viewed the notion of rank with contempt. He viewed rank as something that creates unnecessary rivalry among practitioners. However, rank is a necessary evil and is here to stay.

Let us examine various scenarios regarding rank: first, is the perception between competition and teaching. An old adage stipulates: "those who can do, and those who can't teach." This perception is archaic and misleading. Champions do not occur through chance, they are made! To the degree that a practitioner becomes a champion, the instructor is the vehicle by which these individuals become champions. In this case, the instructor should receive the proper accolades and recognition commensurate with appropriate rank. In Judo, star athletes have different rank criteria than instructors; this criterion is simply wrong. Therefore, it is not uncommon for practitioners in their 30's to have Shichidan or even Hachidan ranks. I have absolutely no problem with the issue of rank to young practitioners provided that their knowledge base is extensive and thorough, and not based simply on competition proficiency.

Second, the notion that only individuals who are past the age of 50 can receive master ranks is also archaic and narrow-minded. Yes, one can argue that these older masters have a wealth of experience and knowledge, but time again is an overriding issue. I have known individuals who have entered the martial arts arena as adults, and over time, they have been able to procure high master ranks. What is the difference between an individual who begins martial arts as a youngster and is still practicing, training and teaching, to an older individual who has basically the same time in training? The answer is that all things being equal, both individuals have put in a lifetime of study, and as such, should be compensated for their efforts.

Third, the "I have been practicing the arts for 50 years" is a deceptive proposition. Very few martial artists have dedicated themselves to intensive study, research, and development over the course of lifetime. There have been some, but not many. To this end, if one begins martial arts in 1950, but is only active until 1970, then to say that one has 58 years of martial study is highly deceptive. However, it is more plausible to believe one who is older, than someone who is younger. This mentality is the proverbial norm today. Research and development is at the foundational core of all martial arts. Have you upgraded your skills in the last decade, or do you continue to propagate what you have taught for many years? Singularly, the most important facet of any instructor or even practitioner is to continually upgrade one's skills and knowledge base. One can never master anything in a lifetime. Unfortunately, because we are finite beings, full mastery and perfection is not possible.

Lastly, the bible clearly states that: "ye shall know them by their fruits." True expertise and knowledge cannot be falsified. Hence, peers will often judge us by what we know. One can easily hide behind rank and other trinkets of deceit, but knowledge is what invariably separates the men from the boys. How do I know this for certain? Just as in times of old when everyone knew who the master was, walk into a reputable dojo, and everyone will know who the master is. Rank, at that point, becomes a moot point.

Liquid foundation

self — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:29:51 +0000

A strong foundation is the beginning, a liquid foundation is the result. In order to be a well rounded martial artist, one must have a base system. To be unconventional and unpredictable, is to have a liquid foundation. If I take a martial art, I will stick with it untill I have gained the knowledge I need to move on. For me, it was never about a black belt, it was about better defending myself. I went to predominantly black schools and I'm white, given the time's It wasn't safe for anybody white to live or commute, in black neighborhoods. I would come home bruised and batterd, because I was white and for no other reason, it can be compared to an African American going to a white school in the 60's.
After about my tenth black eye, my mother enrolled me into my first martial arts style. When he moved away, I had no choice but to move on to something else, and so on, etc;... In living this way I have a liquid foundation. No one knows exactly where I'm going, whether I attack or defend. I am not going to say that I am the ultimate master, or master in any regard, what I mean is, it is not easy to tell where I'm going because my system has no set foundation and after many years, has become it's own thing. The hard part, is thinking of what to call it. I am not however, a mixed martial artist. I am a pure martial artist with a diverse background. I take a martial art untill I am profficient with that style and curcumstance has always prevented me from reaching that final level. However, in practicing and practicing, and fighting and sparring and pointer swapping, that level of finallity, created itself.
It would be folly to say that, that concept would work for everyone. No two people think allike anyway, so why promote my philosophy? Because eventually, someone will agree. I am not the only person that has learned this way, for there are countless others. Almost every martial artist I know, has dabbled and experimented, myself,.. I dove right in. I would immerse myself into that style and, as I said, circumstance would remove me from that circle. In living this way, I have discovered that all martial arts are based on the instincual need to protect one's self. This means that by a general glance, all martial arts are exactly alike. Sure some are more pwerfull than others, but brains and tact usually, will overcome power, Power will over come laziness and being prepared overcomes both. If I know My opponent, like many fighter's do, then I know what to expect. In searching for that perfect martial art, I learned how to prepare myself for conventional thinking. For instance; certain martial arts choose specific targets, I choose none. I just watch and my body does the work. I guess it's because I don't think along the lines of order or systems. I just have learned to naturally defend myself. When you have actually taken as many martial arts as I have, you end up doing a lot of sparring, especially in that particular style.
If you mix pure martial arts with pure martial arts, the result, is that it becomes whatever you want it to be. There should be a level of caution when enetering a new school. Thinking that any one style is better than another, is asking for pain. I am a big Machida fan and I also like Mike Brown. It is because they take big headed people like Urijah Faber and put them in their respective places. Before the Faber, Brown fight, faber was nothing but mouth and cockiness. Not that he didn't deserve some bragging rights, but to actually believe he is the best because he beat a few people, it was his turn to lose.
So even having a liquid background, does not mean that anyone is the best, though they have a more diverse background, it just means that even the best fighters have their day, cockiness makes that day come and shockingly I might add. Nobody expected Brown to win, but because he was wiser... He did.
Having said all of this, it is time for me to log out. Thanks for reading.

Originallity

self — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 14:17:25 +0000

If I spend twenty years of my life in a martial arts school and I spend that time with a fellow student, learning all of the same techniques, I will still end up using it my own way. Yes it is true we learn things and we incorporate those ideas into a working system of values and ethics. My idea is simple, Once you are done learning something, let the movements go their own way. You see it all over the place, people practicing the same movements over and over again, in the same pattern and in the same context. I'm not even sure if I can remember the forms from any of the styles I've had the opportunity to have experienced, but still I remember every single technique I have ever learned or picked up.
I created my own combinations and in doings so, have strengthened my ability to learn new styles. This is because I am always new to to a new idea. I don't practice set patterns, unless I am learning a new style, otherwise I agree with Bruce Lee... Make every movement your own, otherwise someone will take advantage of knowing that you practice a particular style. Martial arts have evolved for a few thousand years and have within the last forty or so years, have become public knowledge. Save a few martial arts, all I have to do is study them at a glance and I can already defend myself against it to some degree. On the other hand, If I conceal what I know and practice it my own way, no one will ever know what style serves as my foundation. Besides, by the numbers can get boring after a time, why not have fun with it. Let's face it, most martial artists are very serious when it comes to practice in school, but what of the outside? Out here, there are no safety nets and there are no restraints. Life is random in order and chaos with control.

"The Willow and the Warrior" Chapter 1

Bushinoji — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 02:28:09 +0000

*Please leave a comment if you would.I will be posting 1 chapter a week for the 1st 5 in my book.

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“The Willow and the Warrior”

Book One

A Trilogy

Written by BushinoJi

©2008

Prologue

It was in an ancient land, long, long ago. It was a time of legends and myths of epic proportions. Prophecy told of a great warrior to come and that he would change the face of the land forever. It was a time of great peace and tranquility in the Ancient Land of Liu Chiu.

Chapter One

"The Encounter"

They were both born of a royal lineage. TsuruTe was from the “Te” family of Ancient South Asia, and ToraKen was from the “Kenjo” family of Ancient Northern NyHan.

TsuruTe was steeped in dance tradition from her mother Okaku and the fighting traditions from her father Hakkucho. They were a proud family that led the flocks on migration across the lands and seas. Chance has it that they were blown off course on a migration trip to the southern mountain tips of “Ancient Liu Chiu.”

They found refuge there amongst gigantic bamboo forests, plentiful fishing holes and tall mountains to practice their flying skills against the currents. Her family was originally from the southern reaches of Ancient Fouchoo Province.

They lived in a beautiful valley filled with cherry blossom trees and abundant with streams. Ponds that are filled with fish and frogs. It was in this wonderful valley where she learned dance from her mother, fish, studying Crane Fist from her father, but above all else, play. She loved sitting in the cherry blossom trees. She found that from high in the trees she could spy down on the ponds and streams and gain vantage when looking for something to eat.

She also loved to sit from there and watch her mother and father dance and train. They were both very proficient in the Arts. She would mimic her parent’s movements late, late into the night, every night. Her parents would fuss with her for being up too late quite often. But they knew also that TsuruTe loved the Arts just as much, if not more than they did. They versed her to their utmost as a result.

When TsuruTe’s mother and father were tragically killed by soldiers, TsuruTe vowed vengeance on the man responsible, Semajin. Lord Semajin was a power hungry ruler that lived in Northern Liu Chiu. He would travel to the southern most regions of Liu Chiu to kill cranes for their feathers for his “Bamboo Festival” he held at his palace every two years.

He knew of the royal cranes that migrated there and would send soldiers to trap birds of all kinds for their plumage every year…especially cranes. TsuruTe vowed one day she would have her revenge…but there was more...

Lord Semajin was a brutal warlord from the Kang family of Ancient NyHan. His father; Emperor Kang, ruled his land with a steel fist destroying any and all that would oppose his rules and laws. On one earlier account Semajin witnessed the death of an entire family because they refused to let Kang take one of their daughters for his consort. Kang had an affinity for young girls and this is where Semajin learned his taste for control.

It was through his father that he learned how to control people and things. When Kang would have his ways with the young girls he would get furious for the slightest error on their behavior. He would then instruct Semajin to whip and torture the unwilling girls until they begged for mercy, which did not come quickly.

This is where Semajin found pleasure in inflicting pain on others and that control; was everything. Emperor Kang ravaged his subjects, from taking their young daughters for consorts to taking their sons to serve in his army. He would kill out entire villages that opposed his rule and then set up his trustworthy cohorts to plant the land seized with the deadly opium poppy. He used the poppy to control his consorts, his thieves, who were many, and to poison his enemies.

Rulers of adjacent lands Kang wanted would be invited to the palace to talk of "changes" and new discoveries in the land. If you were opposed to Kang's suggestions or decrees he would use the poppy to poison food and drink of the opposed. His or her bodies would be disposed of in the China Sea for no one to find.

He would then go to the dead opponent’s land and set afire the land and kill everyone and everything in sight, right down to the animals they tended. He would then have the land routed to plant the deadly poppy. This went on for generations until neighboring warlords plotted against Kang to kill him and take control of the country. They were successful but failed to kill Emperor Kang. Kang was able to commandeer a ship and make his and his son's escape from certain death.
Their ship crashed on the northeast shores of Liu Chiu, when they were caught up in a maelstrom storm trying to flee their impending capture. As a result Kang was thrown from the ship to be instantly eaten by sharks that ruled the China Seas off the coasts of Liu Chiu.

The last words Semajin heard from his father was to conquer these foreign lands and take revenge for their actions and that; Semajin did. He became the only ruler of Liu Chiu besides King Kafu in central southern Liu Chiu. The only reason he could not overthrow King Kafu was because of his ties with other neighboring countries and the vastness of his armies and amount of men in his service.
To try to overthrow King Kafu would be certain suicide. But he knew one day he might get the chance. So whenever he could he would cause chaos in the land. Then blame it on King Kafu's reign. But little did he know that the winds of destiny would alter his plans for his own displeasure.
ToraKen on the other hand was raised lavishly in the royal courts of King Kafu. His mother SanBa; a rare black tiger, had died at birthing ToraKen. ToraKen looked just like his father with exception that the white hair around his jaws was black instead of white.
He also had a black stripe from nose to tip of tail. The tip of his tail was black and so was his front left paw. His father Hakko was the king’s favorite, a glorious white tiger. So ToraKen became the talk and object of all the court members’ attentions. This spoiled little ToraKen, and his father saw this and was displeased.
Hakko set out to show his son what it means to be tora and started to train young ToraKen in Ma-Washi; Big/Small Circle” Tiger Claw. Hakko would have ToraKen hang from the bamboo by his claws for hours until ToraKen cried in pain. Then he would even have him balance on a bamboo log in the river for balance and strength. Many days and late into the nights Hakko would train ToraKen.
He would take him into the jungle for training to sharpen his sight at night and sharpen his senses. He knew this would come in handy if ever there were a chance he should get separated from the royal family and have to fend for himself. ToraKen loved the jungle. He would climb the larger bamboo trees and jump from one to the other like a monkey. This sharpened his agility and claw strength greatly.
His father would go through hours and hours of the strategies of the Ma-Washi Tiger Claw System. Circle; then move. Then circle, move, and strike. And then; circle, move, strike, and seize. Hakko grew so proud of ToraKen. He knew ToraKen would become the fiercest and strongest tora in all the lands.

On occasion, Lord Semajin would travel to Kafu’s to purchase tigers for his “Cat Fights” he held to make money off the neighboring warlords. On one of his many visits he held in awe ToraKen and his father playing in the courtyard one day. He approached the King with the bargain of purchasing the two. But the King refused. As much as he offered the King refused.
This angered Semajin. Semajin plotted to set the palace on fire and steal ToraKen and his father away. He succeeded and left the palace in ruins. On the way back to Semajin’s castle the soldiers poked and teased Hakko with their weapons until he could have no more and he attacked and killed two of Semajin’s soldiers. ToraKen watched in horror as they killed his father.
Fire set deep in ToraKen’s heart and he burst through the cage walls, bamboo splintering and attacked. ToraKen killed four soldiers in a flash. Semajin was scarred on his face and torso by ToraKen’s Ma-Washi training and escaped. He was able to flee from Semajin’s hands and found himself far, far away. Tired and hungry he rested. He dreamt of killing Semajin one day. “I will avenge you my father,” he growled in the night.

And the story begins…

Legend has it, that when ToraKen was looking for food the next day, he happened across a beautiful crane gracefully catching frogs from a lily pond.

He chanced to catch her as he was ravenously hungry and would have eaten anything to satisfy himself. Try as he could, TsuruTe would evade and peck him on the head. Finally after much frustration and being thrown in the pond, he gave up. TsuruTe asked of him, “Why are you trying to catch me? I am not your enemy.”
ToraKen responded, “I haven’t eaten for days and I feared I would starve if not.” TsuruTe shook her head and gently, cautiously, walked over to the pond. Looking over, she spied a fish swimming by. With one swift strike the large fish was stuck on her beak. “Will this do?” she asked.

ToraKen was amazed. “How did you do that?” he asked. “Patience, and quickness,” she responded. “But I am ToraKen, fastest and strongest in this land, besides KanBun the Mountain Dragon,” ToraKen retorted. TsuruTe looked at him and smiled. “Well, apparently you are not as swift and strong as you think ne?” ToraKen hung his head low and said, “I guess not.” TsuruTe brushed a wing by ToraKen’s face and said, “Let us walk and talk for awhile, shall we?”
They shared much together. Lessons in life so far and laughter too. They would spend so much time together, that when apart, all they could do was think of each other and what they might do the next day. Everyday they would go to the lily pond and ToraKen would watch, as TsuruTe would catch fish after fish for them to eat. They would then sit and talk for awhile.
Then, after much talk they would share their strategies of hunting and skill together. They were building a bond together that would last a lifetime, and did not even know it.
Sometimes after training together ToraKen would fall asleep and TsuruTe would just gaze at him as he slept. He was so strong she thought, yet so kind deep in his heart. She thought to herself, I wish he were a crane also. She had grown so fond of him in the time they had spent together so far. This saddened her, because she knew that a crane and a tiger could never be together as one.

One day, ToraKen went to the pond for their everyday meetings. He was there for what seemed like an eternity. TsuruTe did not come. He went to the pond thinking, “Maybe she has been delayed.” He started to catch fish thinking she will be here soon.
“She will be so proud to see all the fish I had caught for us to eat,” he thought to himself. Time passed as he caught more and more fish, and before he knew it, there were too many fish for the both of them to eat. This started to bother him as he realized she was not coming. Bother turned to worry then disappointment.
ToraKen grew sad, so sad that he wept himself to sleep thinking of her. When he awoke it was dark and cold from the mid night air. Saddened, he started his long journey back to his cave. He thought to himself, “What could have happened to TsuruTe? Did she just forget? Or did something happen to her?”
His concern for TsuruTe kept him awake with worry until he finally cried himself to sleep. He dreamt of her dancing on the water and singing her beautiful song as she danced. When he awoke later that morning all he could do was think of her.
He went back to the lily pond and waited and waited. But TsuruTe did not come. He caught more fish, but when he tried to eat, he could not. All he could think of was her, and the time they had spent together by the lily pond. The walk home was a sad and lonely walk by him. He thought, “What did I do? Did I say something or do something to make her stay away?”
Then it dawned on him, “Oh no. Something has happened to my precious TsuruTe.” He thought to himself, “Maybe another tora caught her and ate her,” or maybe worse, she did not want to see him anymore and never return. He cried again and could not stop, until the sadness turned to anger.
He walked through the woods looking for something to kill. But, in his anger he realized, “What good will this do? It will not bring my beautiful TsuruTe back to me.” He had made up his mind at that point to search for TsuruTe, no matter what, until he had found her.
The hours turned into days and the days turned into weeks. His heart was broken, and his will to live was waning. “What shall I do?” He asked of himself. “If I can not find her what good is life without her?”
"I will kill myself,” he pondered. ToraKen thought about this for a long time then realized it to be of foolishness and folly. He longed to see TsuruTe again. His grief and concern for TsuruTe was so great, but he kept searching for her, until one day he realized… “I must still be sleeping and dreaming this nightmare,” he thought.
“Maybe if I run back to my cave and lie back down I will awake from this horrible dream.” As quickly as he could, he raced back to his cave to lie back down. Hopefully, he thought he could go back into his dream and awaken to find it just that, a dream. But, he did not fall back to sleep and visions of trouble filled his mind terribly.
He thought of all kinds of things that might have happened to TsuruTe. He moaned and tossed and turned in his bedding, growing more agitated as the hours it seemed, went by. Disgusted with his own plight, he took a walk outside his cave to go sit by the cliff’s edge. As he sat, he looked towards the night sky, only to look to the stars and see TsuruTe’s image conjured in the stars.
He growled at the moon for looking at him with what he felt was contempt. He knew he had to find her, or his life would never be the same. Once again, grief and concern crept in and off to sleep he went. It was an unsettling rest. The next morning ToraKen awoke to find himself just as agitated as the night before.
He did not waste any time in scurrying off to find his dear friend. He thought, “I will go to the lily pond, catch some fish to eat, then be off to find her”. He hadn’t eaten in days and thought it wise to do so, as to maintain his strength. But as he approached the lily pond he saw two white feathers lying on the ground.
He became excited and curious at the same time, and started shouting her name, “TsuruTe…TsuruTe! Where are you TsuruTe?” He was frantic. He ran, and he looked, and he ran even further, hoping to find her. Before he knew it he had run quite a ways from the lily pond. He sat by a rock and cried and moaned.
It felt as if his heart would break. Just then, he heard a loud roar and the shaking of the earth beneath his feet made him realize…he was close to the lair of the mountain dragon, KanBun. KanBun was an old, but wise dragon that had been living on Mt. Doragon for centuries.

ToraKen thought to himself, “Maybe I could ask of KanBun if he has seen TsuruTe flying near here?” One problem though...KanBun despised toras because his younger dragon brother Kanei was killed by toras when he was just a baby. KanBun vowed revenge on all tora from that point on.
KanBun was known for having mystical abilities and the power to enchant and cast potions and spells. ToraKen thought of his notion and decided he would approach KanBun and ask of him, no matter what the consequences. He decided he would rather be dead than to live without TsuruTe...

I want to say thank you to everyone. The book is now on sale with deliveries going out next week.

stylized confusion

self — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 15:58:24 +0000
I have an extensive martial background and from what I have seen, every teacher I have ever had has said, " this is it ", which absolutely couldn't be farther from the truth. I understand the embellishment though, you gotta get students somehow. I have another way of hooking students. I tell them, that even if I get beat, the guy who did the beating is going to regret it.
For me, martial arts aren't about winning or losing, they are about survival. Ants bite and we generally leave them alone, the same should be said of the human being. Only, human beings are weak tempered and rarely know when to leave well enough alone, the things that can harm them, including their own kind. While it is in our nature as primates to be inquisitive and territorial, even cat's go against their own nature from time to time. What I mean is,.. It is easy for a cat to be curious, but yet they are able to gauge whether or not the something they are curious about can hurt them or not. Generally, if a dog won't eat neither should you.
It is impossible for anyone person to say they have the concrete method. Yet, they do. We are all singular being's, being this way , means that we have fractal personalities. For example; If I had an idea and that idea was as solid as I had claimed, then everyone would agree and I'd have no challengers. The unfortunate and absolute truth is, that we as a species are deluded into thinking we are always right in our decisions and always right in our opinions. There is a modicum of comfort in this line of thinking and in our own minds it is safe. What happens when this line of thinking backfires? We suffer. It is easier to avoid that suffering, by surrendering to the absolute nature of chaos, nothing will ever be the way I think it is.
To be secure in ourselves is easier when there isn't someone to prove us wrong. It is also easier to accept loss when it is looked at as being an inevitable truth of nature. Searching for ideals is admirable but not necessary. If I truly want to stop losing, I should stop fighting. This is the wisdom of surrender. Though I am not surrendering to any corporeal thing, I am making the decision to be wise enough to avoid having the opportunity to be in that state of physical loss. The ultimate decision is to decide on what motivates the search. I can say with great assurity, that no single martial art will ever truly be the best. Unfortunately, we cling to an idea that it is necessary to be seen or heard, so we make claims that can be construed as complete works of fiction.
I heard somewhere, that a great man is the one you never see or hear from. I can say allot of things about my greatness, that does not mean someone else feels that way. To eat of one food can be detrimental to one's health. To avoid the world can make one crazy. To eat many things is healthy. To gain the knowledge of the knowledge of the world is a path to sanity.

How to compose one's self

self — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 12:57:56 +0000
Rule #1; Never brag about what you can't do. Just because they teach it at your school, doesn't mean you can do it.

Rule #2; Be aware of your temperament. People will say that, the only reason you learned anything, was to be a bully.

Rule #3; Only discuss martial arts, don't practice in public. It would be assumed that you are doing it to show off.

Rule #4; Never go into a fight thinking you're going to win, that assumption alone could get you killed.

Rule #5; Avoid outright cockiness. No one likes an abrasive ass clown.

Rule #6; Avoid drawn out arguments and/or conflicts. Eventually, everyone runs out of ammo.

These are all basic principles, each easy to follow, but hard to apply. It is in our nature to think we are important, hell, it is our desire to feel important, but without applying a philosophy or a system of self control, then it would be impossible to co exist with anyone. It is also in our nature, the desire to be right. Even if you are right, you are not surrendering, you are giving the other person permission to be stupid. We all know that what ever choices we make, winds our path and that path can be obstructed by petty attachments and feelings of self worth.
It is also a mistake to look back and think about what you would have done differently, this keeps us from being able to naturally move forward, or evolve around certain social and personal obstacles. If we live by parameters, we then stop the mind from interfering with our natural functions, both physical and metaphysical. Though it is sometimes necessary to ignore common sense, it is more practical to adhere somewhat to a personal rule or design, it should still take some restraint to avoid any, real trouble.
In England, children are sent to finishing school, What they learn to do is to be, a functioning, respectful person in society. It should ultimately fall into the instructors hands, should he decide to teach such principals, but also it is a decision left to the student, whether or not he/ she decides to compose him/her self. The direction one decides to apply those rules are ultimately the decision of the user and in the end will have results tailored to fit the situation and the choice of action.