First Thoughts...

For years I've had discussions with friends, teachers, and fellow martial artists about this path we undertake in life. I've also planned to record these thoughts and conversations so they wouldn't be lost to my the abyss that is my sometimes horrible memory. Over the years I've failed miserably in this task.


Well, that ends now.


The purpose of this record is simply to share my own take on the martial arts, its history, traditions, training, and theories. In advance, I would like to do two things:

1. Thank everyone for the help they have given me over the years. My friends, family, teachers, and fellow martial artists. I am forever in your debt.
2. Apologize for anything I post that sounds too familiar. I will attempt to give credit to anyone I quote, but as we all know, sometimes you never remember where you heard a story or anecdote.

If you're reading this (and with all humility I don't expect many to do so), please understand that these are just my own personal thoughts and beliefs. The martial arts have a long history of honor and respect, but there is also a long history of conflicting viewpoints. I do not expect you to agree with me about every entry, and I'm sure if i read your thoughts, it would be the same.

However, there are some common threads that bind all martial artists, and I hope you find some here.

Thanks.

To paraphrase Musashi...

This 17th day of March, 2011, around 6pm.

-Brian Stanton