Assumptions in Karate for Self-Defense

Blog Article/Post Caveat (Read First Please: Click the Link)

You have probably heard it said before, "When you assume, you make an 'ass' out of yourself and someone named, 'ume.'" You already know that making assumptions is a HUGE part of being human because in the survival game we have to make fast assumptions to choose appropriate actions if we are going to live to see the next sunset. 

Let's take a look at, "meme's, quotes, koan's (a Zen thing), etc." In this teaching arena almost always does the presenter not only make their own assumptions but assume the assumptions of those in receipt will head in the direction they 'think' it will. In truth, there are a plethora of variables of that person and others that influence how they perceive, understand and assume as to its meaning. I often ask for clarification as to the direction the presenter is trying to convey, without telling us their meaning in the meme or quote, etc., so one has some guidance toward "getting it." 

I have a blog I call the "karate koans" where I take liberties with the definition of "Zen Koans" to inspire and trigger student creativity because creativity is huge in karate, especially for self-protection for self-defense. It is also critical to step in and guide students when they work on those karate koan's as lessons necessary for applying karate in various ways. 

Normally, when grave harm or death are NOT on the agenda we can let students go wild with their assumptions in defining and understanding meme's, quotes and koans, etc., because it is necessary to expose them to that creative process we must master in life, especially in conflict and violence, so our creativity can properly trigger actions/responses that will ensure our very survival. 

Granted, as you already know at least subconsciously in your mind that we humans do very well when assuming things and thus, in these modern times, expose ourselves to the dangers resulting in grave harm or death - yeah modern times! For those of us who either work in professions that involve conflict and violence or take lessons to self-protect where conflict and violence are possible then training, practicing and gaining experience in making assumptions, especially when data is very very slight, so we can act properly and effectively. This is critical so taking the skill of assuming things becomes a life-saver in karate for self-defense.  

For reference and sources and professionals go here: Bibliography (Click the link)