A solder in Woolwich hacked to death.
A father kills his wife in an argument.
A boy is imprisoned for life because he kills with one punch.
What we need, the world, your customers, your students, is another solution.
To defeat the enemy without anyone being hurt.
So does this mean the karate block and counter punch doesn't work? There is no doubt that it works. As a student progresses, the ability to defend himself increases to the point where incredible power is wielded.
But the result is what is questionable. Combating violence with violence.
It means we have to think of something better.
Non-Violence.
Aikido is a good for example. Cat like movement, reliable defence skills, an ability to control an attacker.
Only problem is that it takes many many years to become proficient.
We haven't got many years.
We need an answer now.
As a martial arts instructor, you are needed to think of ways to empower your students to defeat the bully with out anyone getting hurt. Hurting others is easy. To hurt no-one, to be completely calm amidst violence and not respond is the step out of the neanderthal reaction.
As an instructor, your challenge is to step up and use every bit of intelligence you have.
Every bit of enthusiasm you possess.
To put all of your life experiences together and create something that will change those who are listening.
Change.
It has to start somewhere.
"Be the change you want to see in the world."