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.

OT: American System of Symbols

A friendly reminder of who we really are!


The American system of symbols is a complex network of images, icons, rituals, and traditions that convey national values, history, and shared cultural meanings. These symbols serve as a means of unifying diverse groups of people and reinforcing American ideals. Below is a breakdown of key categories of American symbols and their significance:


1. National Symbols


These symbols represent the United States as a whole and reflect its founding principles.

• The American Flag (Stars and Stripes) – Represents national unity, freedom, and democracy. Each element carries meaning: 13 stripes for the original colonies and 50 stars for the states. The colors symbolize valor (red), purity (white), and perseverance (blue).

• The Bald Eagle – The national bird, symbolizing strength, freedom, and resilience.

• The Statue of Liberty – A symbol of freedom, democracy, and welcome to immigrants, with its torch representing enlightenment.

• The Liberty Bell – Associated with American independence and the abolitionist movement, it carries the inscription: “Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof.”

• Uncle Sam – A personification of the U.S. government and military, often used in recruitment and patriotic imagery.


2. Political and Legal Symbols


These symbols embody the nation’s system of governance and rule of law.

• The U.S. Constitution & Declaration of Independence – Represent the foundation of American democracy, outlining the rights and freedoms of the people.

• The Great Seal of the United States – Features an eagle clutching arrows (war) and an olive branch (peace), emphasizing the balance between defense and diplomacy.

• The Capitol Building & White House – Represent American democracy and the functioning of government.

• The Supreme Court Building – Symbolizes the rule of law and the role of judicial interpretation in governance.


3. Military and Patriotic Symbols


These symbols honor national defense and those who serve.

• The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier – Represents all fallen American soldiers whose identities are unknown.

• The Purple Heart Medal – Awarded to U.S. military personnel wounded or killed in action.

• Arlington National Cemetery – A sacred resting place for military personnel and a symbol of national sacrifice.


4. Cultural and Social Symbols


These symbols reflect shared cultural values and traditions.

• The Pledge of Allegiance – A verbal declaration of loyalty to the U.S. and its values.

• The National Anthem (“The Star-Spangled Banner”) – Represents resilience and patriotism.

• Mount Rushmore – Depicts four influential presidents (Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt), symbolizing leadership and progress.

• The Rose (National Flower) – Represents the beauty, diversity, and strength of the nation.

• Apple Pie & Thanksgiving – Represent American traditions, family, and prosperity.


5. Economic and Business Symbols


These symbols signify the U.S. economic system and business culture.

• The Dollar ($) and the U.S. Treasury Seal – Represent economic strength and capitalism.

• Wall Street & the Bull – Symbolize financial markets, economic power, and the pursuit of success.


6. Civil Rights and Social Justice Symbols


These symbols reflect America’s struggles and progress toward equality.

• Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial – Honors the civil rights leader and symbolizes the fight for racial justice.

• The Rainbow Flag – Represents LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion.

• The Gadsden Flag (“Don’t Tread on Me”) – Originally a Revolutionary War symbol, later used to signify individual rights and government skepticism.


7. Regional and Subcultural Symbols


Different regions and groups within the U.S. have their own cultural symbols.

• The Cowboy & Western Imagery – Represents independence, self-reliance, and frontier spirit.

• Jazz & Blues Music – Symbolize African American cultural contributions and artistic freedom.

• Hollywood & the Entertainment Industry – Represent American influence on global media and popular culture.

• Sports Symbols (Baseball, Football, etc.) – Represent teamwork, competition, and American traditions.


8. Technological and Space Exploration Symbols


These symbols highlight American innovation and global leadership.

• The Moon Landing (Apollo 11) – Represents exploration, ambition, and scientific achievement.

• NASA Logo & Space Shuttle – Symbolize technological progress and discovery.


Conclusion


American symbols are deeply ingrained in the nation’s identity, reflecting its values of freedom, democracy, innovation, and cultural diversity. While some symbols are universally accepted, others have evolved or taken on new meanings over time. These symbols continue to shape the American narrative, both domestically and internationally.


at

No comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)