Read Between the Lines

Often a book may slip by that has significant value toward our studies of the martial systems. I found this out by accident when I would review the bibliographies at the back of those MA books I truly enjoyed and gained much information from and that inspired me to look at the bibliographies of even those books. One thread tends to lead to another to crate a "whole" system of knowledge that benefits not only MA but life itself.

I remember when reading Sgt. Rory Miller's book, the bibliography, and noted the book "The Art of Verbal Self-defense." I said to myself, cool a book on verbal karate. Little did I realize that it would enlighten me to many troubling traits of mine that had a great effect on my personal life with my family. I mean way beyond the use of communications to avoid conflict for karate, self defense and personal protection. I was flabbergasted and very grateful.

You just never know where a thread will lead you when you take the time to "read between the lines" and actually, "see, hear and feel" things that will benefit your martial arts and your self.

If someone recommends a book, lists one in their MA book or speaks of something that does NOT have Martial Arts in its title don't toss it aside, give it a read. As with any book, give it a few chapters and who knows. After that if it does not speak to you lay it aside and move on. You never know what you might miss.