Kempo & the Hawk

"The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and science." Albert Einstein

As my wife and I stood in the office, watching the field full of robins take flight, one lone bird remained grounded. Confusion crossed her face as she turned to me for an explanation. I silently pointed to the nearest bird, revealing a small hawk with its dinner clutched tightly in its talons.

At that moment, a realization dawned upon me as nature reflected the nearly invisible attack. The robins had sensed the looming presence of danger in their midst and swiftly dispersed, leaving behind the unwitting straggler. It was a stark reminder of the delicate balance between predator and prey in the natural world, where every movement carries significance. Smaller movements are needed so as not to give away your attack or defense. The scene before us encapsulated the raw beauty and harsh reality of survival in nature - a spectacle that is often overlooked in our daily lives. The lone robin stood unaware of its predator. The hawk had approached from its position of advantage, serving as a powerful metaphor for the circle of life.

The art and science of martial arts, specifically kempo in my case, can appear to be magical. Where speed and strength give way to subtle skills of kuzushi, although speed and strength are a great benefit to any martial art study. It speaks to the mystique and awe that surrounds these ancient practices, and how their effectiveness can seem almost otherworldly at times.

Just as the student expressed, the seamless movements and precise strikes of kempo can indeed feel like something out of a fantasy realm rather than a product of rigorous training and biomechanics.

Similarly, the mention of a hawk appearing seemingly out of nowhere draws parallels to our understanding of self-defense. Like the hawk's sudden appearance, our defenses should be swift, instinctive, and almost supernatural in their execution. This ties into the idea that while we strive to understand and analyze the scientific principles behind combat techniques, there's also an element of intuition and adaptability that transcends mere logic. Mastering this balance between knowledge and instinct is what truly allows us to harness the magic within kempo and other martial arts.

The study of martial arts is a shield against violence but also a bridge to adventure. I'm sure to the robin, the hawk is an assassin, as I am certain that is how the worm feels about the robin. Likewise, the danger is just as real for Xander and his friends. Yet, the Dream Walkers have a double benefit with both martial arts and their mystic knowledge and instincts. We can only hope that it will be enough.