Martial Arts in the Modern World

I've been thinking about the importance of Martial Arts training in our modern society.  Besides the obvious benefit of being able to defend oneself physically, Martial Arts can also teach us to defend ourselves emotionally and spiritually. Through the meditative development of the Warrior Spirit, we are able to defend ourselves from our greatest enemy: FEAR.

 I see a lot fear in the eyes of many people I have spoken with recently.  They fear the future of the country, their relationships, their occupations and their families.  They fear for themselves, for their loved ones and for those they have never even met.  Many times, they let this fear dictate their actions, often ending in negative consequences.  Fear is our greatest obstacle in life.  It is fear which keeps us from success, happiness and prosperity.  The conquering of fear can bring health, wealth, abundance and a feeling of gratitude and contentment.

 The great Zen-Masters of Shaolin Temple were very aware of the human propensity towards fear.  This was the true reason for the development of Martial Skill: Not just to eliminate the fear of a physical attack, but to eliminate fear on all levels and bringing its practitioners closer to ultimate enlightenment.  In these present times of political tension, economic struggle and global change, the conquering of fear is, now more than ever, of the utmost importance.  By the cultivation of the Warrior Spirit through the Martial Arts we may begin to confront, contemplate and conquer our personal fears.  Thus, finally allowing ourselves to enjoy all the splendors that life has to offer.