Unmask Thyself...

I've been told twice now about Phoenix Jones, the real life martial artist and superhero of Seattle who is part of a citizen patrol group that prevents crime. My childlike wonder came out at the prospect of bad guys being punished and banished from the streets. A little introspection about the man behind the mask makes me see a man with a big ego who seeks to avenge the bullies from his past by perpetuating the same cycle he believes he is ending.

There is a saying that goes, "don't fight fire with fire." So, if you don't like something, don't add more of what you don't like to it. It seems very backwards to right wrongs with more wrongs. When I heard Phoenix Jones was a martial artist, that about did me in. It appears he may need a refresher course in the philosophy of what makes a true martial artist: 

~One of the most priceless gifts of martial arts practice is to get to know yourself internally and externally.

~Our main goal is to use the body to reach and learn to master the mind. Once you have mastered your mind you will have no desire to ever fight.

~In real martial arts, even when faced with the situation, you can stay calm and centered.

~Through practice we become aware of what we think and why. What shapes our values and beliefs, then we can step back and look at it with more of a pure mind.

~Consistent effort over time is needed to achieve greatness in anything. 

Lastly, a conscious life is lived not behind a mask, but with eyes and a heart wide open ready to give one's strengths where they can best be served.