From the 10th to the 19th the Samurai were the epitome of the warrior. They ate, slept, and breathed combat. To them it was better to die with honor than live without. With that said, the amount of time and effort they spent on training win in battle was ridicules, comparable only to a few other warrior classes in history.
There main weapon was the katana, each made for individually for one Samurai who would use this same sword for years to come, learning its in and outs. With this they would often carry the wakizashi. A short sword that would accompany them everywhere, even in the most secure of places. With these weapons they trained constantly for war.
Yet even with the amount of time spent training for open conflict on the battlefield, each Samurai felt it his personal burden in life to become proficient in as many areas of combat as possible.
Along with what we call Kendo (sword fencing) they would also practice the art of Iaido, which focused on drawing the sword, not only from standing but weak-handed and kneeling. They studied Aikido, the art of unarmed defense against multiple armed attackers. They studied Jiujutsu, or the art of grappling and joint manipulation. Along with all of this they were also the most educated warrior society the world may have ever seen.
All this is to ask, how do we measure up. Are we committed enough to our families and our own safety, to be willing to diversify our training? Now 99.5% of the people out there do not have time to devote themselves completely to the study and training of the Martial Arts (including firearms). However, are we willing to stay in shape, stay mentally prepared and sharp, learn to fight with and without weapons, and to say to the world I am a warrior, not a victim?
The question then is this: how do we achieve a Warrior mindset? These are just my thoughts, and I would love to hear you guys’ thoughts. Do you cross train? How? What is your motivation to do so? How can we help each other develop this mindset?
Looking forward to your responses to my way too long post ,
LJ