Ultimate Kempo. Jeff Driscoll

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      The Yin-Yang represents two opposite, conflicting forces, which blend and coexist in the same space. These forces are found in every action. The symbol is also a reflection of the fact that all things in life are subject to change. The only thing we can be sure of is that life, as we know it today, will change. It is really up to us to try to change things for the better.

      The symbol is made up of two teardrops, like halves that seemingly blend into one another. The black portion is Yang, representing such characteristics as hard, forceful, or an outward projection of energy. The white portion is Yin, representative of such characteristics as soft, yielding, or an inward collection of energy. Inside each of the spheres is contained a small seed or portion of the other.

      This signifies that whether you are predominately a Yang person, or a Yin person, we all have a small percentage of the qualities from the other.

      We can look at this symbol and it’s representations in many ways. It can take on the meaning of the balance between FULL and EMPTY. This comparison can be related to characteristics of the human ego; if we are too full of ourselves, we allow ourselves to be closed off to new perspectives and ideas. This makes it very difficult for proper learning and positive growth for the future. On the other hand, if we are too empty, we may accept all perspectives and ideas without questioning whether that particular information is good for us.

      Another way of interpreting the yin-yang symbol would be the comparison of being FORCEFUL or YIELDING. There are times in our martial arts where we must be forceful; use of power, speed, and an indomitable spirit to move straight ahead is essential. But as we become more experienced, the realization that having the ability to be yielding, and elusive is equally important.

      The important concept to grasp is knowing when and where to apply each quality. Knowing how to use this concept in your daily life is essential when dealing with the conflicts of everyday life.

      Yet another comparison of this symbol can be that of the use of STRENGTH and COMPASSION. It is very important in life, to have strength. Strength in your convictions, state of mind, and in your physical sense, is very important for your survival. But being strong without compassion, and an open mind for understanding the people and circumstances around us, can leave us empty and out of balance. As martial artists and students of life, we must have the strength and fierceness of a lion, but, just as importantly, that strength must be tempered by compassion for all those around us.

      As we look at these comparisons of the Yin-Yang symbol–and there are countless more–we should start to see a common thread: the pursuit of balance. All of these characteristics from this symbol are very important unto themselves. But mastering the ability to use them in a balanced, productive, and compassionate manner is what a student of the martial arts, and a student of life should strive for.

      Rules/Guidelines for Life

      As we progress in our training, and become aware of martial arts principles and concepts, we should start to notice how we are governed by natural law. These laws govern how we move, giving us a road map if you will, to better balance and structure as well as ease in movement. Knowing how these concepts/principles apply to us, for better structure and movement, also teaches us the keys of destruction when it comes to our opponent.

      When it comes to physically applying our martial arts techniques, we can violate these principles sometimes, depending on our age (youth), strength, and speed. But as we get older, we have to grow smarter and more perceptive to the keys that make our purpose easier, and our opponent’s purpose more difficult. If we choose to ignore the fact that these guidelines exist, we are doomed to fail, especially after our physical skills start to diminish.

      As we have discussed earlier, principles that govern or relate to physical movement and motion, have a direct relationship in dealing with the mental and emotional challenges of daily living.

      Keeping this in mind, I have tried to come up with several simple, straight-forward principles or rules to help guide us when dealing with conflict...physical or non-physical.

      1) Pick Your Battles!

      Ever feel that you are surrounded by battles/conflicts that constantly require your energy and urgent attention? Sometimes in life, we are drawn into a conflict without our total awareness. Other times, we may dive right in to a fight, without considering the consequences of participating in the conflict. How much time, emotional and physical energy will we have to invest?

      Will this sacrifice be beneficial to the betterment of our lives in the long run? Have we looked at the possible outcomes of this situation or conflict? How will our lives, and the lives of those around us, benefit if we prevail? Will there actually be any benefits? Have we considered the down side of engaging in this conflict if we do not prevail? What will we lose, and more importantly, can we afford the loss? Is the fight worth the consequences?

      These are all considerations that have to be taken into account, BEFORE we enter into a conflict. In war, just as in daily life, there are never any shortages of conflicts or battles we may engage in. The important thing to remember is that to be an effective and victorious warrior, we must look at the big picture and ask ourselves these important questions. Have we entered into a conflict merely because of our ego, or is the process or fight a worthwhile cause, which will affect you and others in a positive manner?

      Always remember, in many cases, we have the opportunity to pick the battles we engage in. But, if we choose not to ask ourselves the important questions, we will find ourselves drawn into conflicts and situations that are not worthy of our time, energy, and possibility of sacrifice and loss.

      This guideline is, in no way meant to influence the reader to be totally passive, and to not engage in a conflict. It is merely meant to induce this thought, more often than not we have a choice in the matter. Always remember, when we have a choice, we must evaluate the situation in an objective, educated manner.

      2) It is Always Easier to Get Into a Battle or Conflict, Than It is to Get Out!

      This guideline goes hand-in-hand with PICK YOUR BATTLES. We have all been drawn into situations, where we’ve engaged in a conflict, whether it is an argument, legal battle, or dispute of some kind, only to realize the objective is not worth the price we must pay to accomplish it. If we lose the taste for the battle, we may find ourselves wondering how we got involved.

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