The Path of Twos

There are many commonalities in the ways of combat found throughout the world. If one were to look casually at warrior societies from history's hallowed halls, one would see many of these commonalities stand out vibrantly. Today, we will to talk about the Path of Two.

In our history as a race, it can be seen that all warrior cultures give credence to the path of two. The Japanese had the Daisho, the Norse had the teeth, the knightly class of Europe had the rondol and longsword. It can also be seen in the modern militaries of the world in the use of the rifle combined with the use of the sidearm. The pattern that emerges is one of a main weapon, supported by a secondary weapon. This is something that should not be discounted when training in any weapon art.

Jin and the Norse.

Combining the ways of Jin, with the tenants of the Æsir is no easy thing. It must come from an understanding, and blending of the violent, and peaceful portions of one's mind. direct both to positive outcomes, turn the feelings you have into productive outlets. In this way, one can begin combining Jin and the tenants of the Æsir.

Way of the peaceful warrior.

In times past it was said that *Jin*, Benevolence, or the Way of the Peaceful Warrior was the most difficult of the ways of Bushido to follow. I believe for many, this was true. Though, i also believe *Makoto* or Honesty was equally difficult to follow.

But in modern times, when we are bombarded with messages on how we are supposed to act, or how we re not supposed to act; have any of you seen any message that encourages any of the ways of Bushido?

We are told to be honest, not because it is right, but because others will find dissapointment with us if we do not.
We are encouraged to be peaceful, not because it is the highest form of self control, of knowing one's self. But because it is the only socially acceptable form of conduct. Would it not be better for us, as a people, to be equipped to engage in violence, but refuse to on moral grounds? As opposed to never having the capability in the first place? Possibly.

But in truth, and truth it is my friends, the entirety of this code is out of reach for most of our fellows. Not only are the difficult life ways, but they no longer enter the minds of people. Concepts such as *Jin*, as *Makoto*, *Meiyo* and *Gi* these things are not in our everyday presence of mind.

I for one, think that they should be, in order to give us a sense of personal fulfillment.

Purity of Purpose

In the life of a man, the highest ideal he can achieve is purity of purpose.
Purity of self, purity of mind, of soul. All these and others are merely offshoots of one thing.

Purpose.

If one has a purpose, a thing, or an ideal that one strives for above all things, then he is capable of mighty feats in the pursuit of that thing. A man is capable of so much more when he is striving for something other than himself. Remember this as you walk through life, keep it close to you in whatever you do. Align yourself with your purpose, and you will know satisfaction, even should you momentarily fail.

If you can achieve Purity of Purpose, then you shall know enlightenment.

Considerations