9/11

Of course, today is 9/11.

This is not a silat posting but it's relevant to my silat training. It is because of stupid people that silat and every other form of martial art exists.

We must remember that martial arts is much more about being a warrior than anything else we learn from it. In fact, everything else comes out of that one aspect alone. We can know that as true because if we took the combative, warrior applications and training out of it, what would be left? Philosophy, Spiritual Training, Art, Culture? Nothing that can't be found in some other venue. No similarities required.

Train then like you are a warrior. Stop dabbling in it and get yourself moving. You know, it's a fact that you can study the best martial system with the best teacher and still be a lazy undisciplined bum. Being a martial artist, at least in my organization requires discipline and perseverance. Oh sure, you can taste it without really doing it but you'll never really get it.

PSP is a simple system. Yet, few really understand that. Few have really put the energy out that it requires to learn that for themselves. I say that not to complain or chastise but to say that I wonder how many other systems of martial art suffer from the same issue?

How many of us, including myself, forget the simple truth that we are learning a warrior art and should be walking a warrior path. We just never know when we will be called on to use our skills. It could be tomorrow, it could be today, it could be in five minutes. Right now, one of you may be doing it instead of reading this!

Can you honestly say that when you practice that you have that in mind? If not, why?

You are my brothers and sisters. I care for you guys and I will do what I can to help you on this journey, but you must do your part. I have already provided the majority of the core materials for you and the world to see, but watching it on TV will not teach you how it all connects together, only doing it will. I am available to you guys for any help you need, but only asking me will get you the help you need - not my availability. Again, this is not to chastise or correct because many of you do quite well with this, it's just a reminder, that actions really do speak louder than words.

On this date, several years ago, people from all kinds of backgrounds, religious beliefs, and races were forced by things going on around them to temporarily assume the warrior spirit. Some rose to the surface and did it, and others did not. How we respond on a day to day basis is probably an indicator of how we might respond in a real situation. Do you act or do you sit and watch?

The lifestyle we have chosen is a lifestyle of OUR CHOOSING. Get off your "can" and do it! Stop riding the fence.