Killer Instinct
In regard to real life self defense, we must honestly admit that anything can happen from the easiest escape, where no one gets hurt, to the receiving of serious injury, and the dealing of death. A person who develops the killer instinct, literally looks forward to the opportunity to invoking that instinct in a trail of combat. False. When faced with life or death situation, especially one that threatens family members, most everyone's killer instinct will take control, but, until the need arises, it lies dormant. Military warriors train to kill on the battle field, but, while in their hometown, most do not walk around looking for an opportunity to use it, There are rare excepts, but then there are always exceptions when something involves human behavior. But the one who develops the Honshin will kill only if necessary, and avoid making it necessary, at all costs, except for the sacrifice of themselves or an innocent. There are also exceptions here; trained martial artists have killed for the same reasons as other killers, anger, greed, honor, jealousy, etc. The person of Honshin will realize that no trophy or championship is worth the potential of seriously injuring or possibly killing another human being. In addition, in life, the Honshin martial artist will apply the principle to decisions of life, living with honor and not selling themselves out for money or fame, seeking instead to live a life of peace and dedication.
So it is alright to say No to the killer instinct. For with proper martial arts training the person will still be able to defend themselves effectively, making sure to use the right amount of force, without exceeding what is necessary, while developing a mental ability which will allow the person to meet all situations in life with equanimity, knowing that they have done what needs to be done, not more nor less. This myth about martial artists being able to control the amount of force they use to fit the situation may be used against a martial artist facing charges in court of using excessive force that led to serious injury or death of another. If the myth is true, it means the martial artist must have intended to seriously injure or kill the person and thus is guilty of the charges. This then is the superior mental level sought by Oriental philosophers and martial artists for centuries, and available to those who are willing to seek higher spiritual levels through martial arts training today.
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