I think the best teacher is the most basic and obvious observations of others, to see how you would look doing or acting how others around you act. A recent experience of mine is a perfect example of what I mean. I was at the Main Post Office in Binghamton waiting in line to mail a package. There were a dozen or so people in line ahead of me, and after just a few minutes in line at least the same number were behind me. Only one postal clerk was working. The people first in line had several items and needed a lot of time to do so. Then a fire alarm went off! A recording said that an alarm was sounding in a different building and that customers may continue business unless instructed otherwise. This recording repeated continuously for almost 10 minutes.

A Dojo Can be a place of miracles. A place where mind and body are relaxed, and refreshed and sanity restored. A place where you will find acceptance, smiles and a home that welcomes you no matter how you feel or who you are. The bow upon entering the school serves to both greet the place in which such beautiful transitions occur, and to humble oneself to accept what will be offered with in. The mood of the dojo should be one of calmness and positivity. Muscles are toned, stretched and the tensions that have been built up are released.

     One major aspect of self-defense that is often overlooked is the aspect of detecting a potential threatening situation. The old saying if something does not feel right is most often true.

     Our instincts usually make us aware of abnormal situations and thus give us a heads-up. By being aware of potential danger, we are more capable of handling it