Dimensions of Awareness

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In our development as martial artists, we focus much of our time on the art and science of disabling and destroying the human body. It's easy to forget that we're essentially developing ourselves to serve and protect. Whether or not this story is true, the fact remains that Diaz had a great sense of awareness, even though what he did was a little risky. I've shared another story in the past of an Aikido master who helped calm a violent drunk on the subway. Instead of taking down the drunk and detaining him, which the Aikido master could have easily done, he simply started a conversation with the drunk and controlled him with peaceful words. By being aware, these two men avoided a physical altercation. Although, I'm not sure what I would've done after giving my wallet. My initial response is to call 911, which you should do in that situation. Also, befriending a mugger may not be a good idea...