Thursday, March 22, 2012

The Source of a Warrior's Power

I like knives.  It's hard to feel complete without a good, sharp knife
in my pocket.

Though it's arguably a less practical matter for my generation than it
was for my father's or grandfather's, carrying a knife is a symbol.
It's a reminder that we're capable of reshaping the world with our
bare hands.  It's a reminder of the importance of keeping ready
certain skills and tools.  It's a reminder to remain vigilant.

The vigilant man is prepared for the unforeseen and keeps his affairs
in order.  He keeps his blade sharp and slices through obstacles
without effort.  He thinks before he acts and then acts with
confidence.  He is resilient because he is aware and self-reliant.  He
is slave to nothing and no one.

A knife is a weapon.  It is a sign of power, of strength, and
independence.  Sometimes a weapon may be turned on oneself, but the
warrior must learn to wield his weapon.  The blade is the source of
his power, and to strip him of it for his own safety is to sabotage
him.

Without a sword, the warrior is powerless.  He can't as easily hurt
himself, but neither is he equipped to protect himself.

The warrior must learn to trust himself.  Trust him and he will trust himself.