Please take a look at Articles on self-defense/conflict/violence for introductions to the references found in the bibliography page.

Please take a look at my bibliography if you do not see a proper reference to a post.

Please take a look at my Notable Quotes

Hey, Attention on Deck!

Hey, NOTHING here is PERSONAL, get over it - Teach Me and I will Learn!


When you begin to feel like you are a tough guy, a warrior, a master of the martial arts or that you have lived a tough life, just take a moment and get some perspective with the following:


I've stopped knives that were coming to disembowel me

I've clawed for my gun while bullets ripped past me

I've dodged as someone tried to put an ax in my skull

I've fought screaming steel and left rubber on the road to avoid death

I've clawed broken glass out of my body after their opening attack failed

I've spit blood and body parts and broke strangle holds before gouging eyes

I've charged into fires, fought through blizzards and run from tornados

I've survived being hunted by gangs, killers and contract killers

The streets were my home, I hunted in the night and was hunted in turn


Please don't brag to me that you're a survivor because someone hit you. And don't tell me how 'tough' you are because of your training. As much as I've been through I know people who have survived much, much worse. - Marc MacYoung

WARNING, CAVEAT AND NOTE

The postings on this blog are my interpretation of readings, studies and experiences therefore errors and omissions are mine and mine alone. The content surrounding the extracts of books, see bibliography on this blog site, are also mine and mine alone therefore errors and omissions are also mine and mine alone and therefore why I highly recommended one read, study, research and fact find the material for clarity. My effort here is self-clarity toward a fuller understanding of the subject matter. See the bibliography for information on the books. Please make note that this article/post is my personal analysis of the subject and the information used was chosen or picked by me. It is not an analysis piece because it lacks complete and comprehensive research, it was not adequately and completely investigated and it is not balanced, i.e., it is my personal view without the views of others including subject experts, etc. Look at this as “Infotainment rather then expert research.” This is an opinion/editorial article/post meant to persuade the reader to think, decide and accept or reject my premise. It is an attempt to cause change or reinforce attitudes, beliefs and values as they apply to martial arts and/or self-defense. It is merely a commentary on the subject in the particular article presented.


Note: I will endevor to provide a bibliography and italicize any direct quotes from the materials I use for this blog. If there are mistakes, errors, and/or omissions, I take full responsibility for them as they are mine and mine alone. If you find any mistakes, errors, and/or omissions please comment and let me know along with the correct information and/or sources.



“What you are reading right now is a blog. It’s written and posted by me, because I want to. I get no financial remuneration for writing it. I don’t have to meet anyone’s criteria in order to post it. Not only I don’t have an employer or publisher, but I’m not even constrained by having to please an audience. If people won’t like it, they won’t read it, but I won’t lose anything by it. Provided I don’t break any laws (libel, incitement to violence, etc.), I can post whatever I want. This means that I can write openly and honestly, however controversial my opinions may be. It also means that I could write total bullshit; there is no quality control. I could be biased. I could be insane. I could be trolling. … not all sources are equivalent, and all sources have their pros and cons. These needs to be taken into account when evaluating information, and all information should be evaluated.” - God’s Bastard, Sourcing Sources (this applies to this and other blogs by me as well; if you follow the idea's, advice or information you are on your own, don't come crying to me, it is all on you do do the work to make sure it works for you!)



“You should prepare yourself to dedicate at least five or six years to your training and practice to understand the philosophy and physiokinetics of martial arts and karate so that you can understand the true spirit of everything and dedicate your mind, body and spirit to the discipline of the art.” - cejames (note: you are on your own, make sure you get expert hands-on guidance in all things martial and self-defense)



“All I say is by way of discourse, and nothing by way of advice. I should not speak so boldly if it were my due to be believed.” - Montaigne


I am not a leading authority on any one discipline that I write about and teach, it is my hope and wish that with all the subjects I have studied it provides me an advantage point that I offer in as clear and cohesive writings as possible in introducing the matters in my materials. I hope to serve as one who inspires direction in the practitioner so they can go on to discover greater teachers and professionals that will build on this fundamental foundation. Find the authorities and synthesize a wholehearted and holistic concept, perception and belief that will not drive your practices but rather inspire them to evolve, grow and prosper. My efforts are born of those who are more experienced and knowledgable than I. I hope you find that path! See the bibliography I provide for an initial list of experts, professionals and masters of the subjects.

Tiger and Dragon in Chinese Symbolism of Yin/Yang

 - CEJames & Alfonz Ingram


The tiger and dragon hold deep cultural and philosophical significance in Chinese tradition, particularly as symbolic representations of yin and yang. These two creatures are not only prominent in Chinese mythology but are also emblematic of the balance of opposing yet complementary forces in nature and life.


Yin and Yang Philosophy


The yin-yang philosophy originates from ancient Chinese cosmology, particularly Taoism. It explains the duality and interconnectedness of opposites in the universe:

• Yin: Represents qualities such as passivity, receptivity, femininity, darkness, and the moon.

• Yang: Represents activity, assertiveness, masculinity, brightness, and the sun.


Together, yin and yang create balance and harmony, emphasizing that opposites are interdependent and continually transforming into each other.


The Symbolism of the Tiger and Dragon


1. The Tiger as Yin:

• Represents earth, stability, and ferocity.

• Associated with darkness, intuition, and the moon.

• Symbolizes power grounded in raw, physical strength and a defensive posture.

• The tiger’s strength is direct, instinctive, and forceful, reflecting the passive yet powerful qualities of yin.

2. The Dragon as Yang:

• Represents heaven, spirituality, and mysticism.

• Associated with light, creativity, and the sun.

• Symbolizes wisdom, strategy, and dynamic energy.

• The dragon’s movements are fluid and expansive, embodying the assertive and outward-reaching nature of yang.


Tiger and Dragon in Martial Arts


In Chinese martial arts, the tiger and dragon often symbolize complementary fighting strategies and philosophies:

• The Tiger Style:

• Focuses on direct, aggressive techniques that embody raw power and earthbound stability.

• Emphasizes physical strength and offensive moves.

• The Dragon Style:

• Reflects flowing, circular movements, embodying grace and adaptability.

• Focuses on strategy, spiritual energy, and overcoming strength with skill.


Together, they teach practitioners to balance power with wisdom and aggression with control.


The Tiger-Dragon Balance in Chinese Art and Literature

1. Symbol of Opposing Forces:

• The tiger and dragon are frequently depicted in combat, symbolizing the eternal struggle between yin and yang. However, this “struggle” is not about destruction but achieving harmony.

• Their coexistence symbolizes balance, where neither force dominates the other.

2. Guardians and Protectors:

• In Chinese mythology, the White Tiger guards the west, and the Azure Dragon protects the east. Together, they safeguard the universe’s balance.

3. Cultural Representation:

• Paintings, sculptures, and writings often depict the tiger and dragon as complementary beings, showcasing their unity rather than their opposition.


Philosophical Lessons from the Tiger and Dragon

1. Interdependence:

• Like yin and yang, the tiger and dragon rely on each other to define their existence. Aggression (tiger) requires strategy (dragon), and vice versa.

2. Adaptability and Balance:

• The tiger teaches the value of strength and determination, while the dragon imparts wisdom and flexibility. Together, they inspire a balanced approach to challenges.

3. The Path to Harmony:

• The tiger and dragon remind individuals to integrate both physical and spiritual aspects of life, striving for equilibrium between action and reflection.


References

1. Watts, A. (1975). Tao: The Watercourse Way. Pantheon Books.

2. Pregadio, F. (2008). The Encyclopedia of Taoism. Routledge.

3. Cleary, T. (1993). The Book of Balance and Harmony. Shambhala Publications.

4. Esherick, J. W. (1987). The Origins of the Boxer Uprising. University of California Press.

5. The Complete Illustrated Guide to Chinese Medicine. (1997). Element Books.


The tiger and dragon encapsulate the essence of yin-yang philosophy, offering profound insights into balance, duality, and the harmonious interplay of opposites in both nature and human existence.

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