Fundamentally one does not practice the "Art" in order to "Kick Ass". Although the ability to adequately defend oneself against an attack is often a natural by-product of extensive study in the Martial Arts. However, the fact remains, that the self defense component of the "Art" could be considered the lure! A lure to interest and intice the uninitiated to follow the path. So this beckons the question what is the path? I believe this path can be simplified to three elements for the purposes of this article.

THE PHYSICAL FORM

First, one must conquer their physical limitations. I.e. strength, endurance, flexibility in the basic form, then, one may seek to expand the boundaries of their Physical Limitations by advancing to stance work, acrobatics, and memory applications (forms).

Thus, by conquering one's basic form, which is the physical, one enters into a state of confidence regarding one's physical abilities. Perhaps they are not satisfied, as satisfaction is not in the nature of human beings, but, confident in their basic physical abilities none the less.

This creates a state of mind, which is open, and malleable enough to move to the second component, which is the conquering of one's mental state. Interestingly enough, this first state does not yeild sufficient abilities with which one could "kick ass".

THE INTERNAL FORM

The second component is perhaps the most difficult. Conquering the internal self: the mind, the ego, the doubts, the incessant need to control the universe. It is best begun with meditation and ultimately ends in surrender.

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THE SPIRITUAL FORM At this stage a student is directed to apply the tranquility she/he is attempting to manifest to the techniques they have studied in various combative situations. The student is thereby naturally lead into the third component of the "Art".

That is, the understanding of ones own mortality. When one understands their own mortality, they learn to appreciate the mortality of others. Hence, an individual that once sought War, turns to Peace. For only Warriors truly understand the wisdom in Peace.

Perhaps there is one other creation that understands Peace as deeply as the Warrior - the Mother.

Interestingly enough, this third stage, is the only state in which this author has found Warriors have developed sufficient abilities with which to "kick ass".

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