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Bruce Lee. Muhammad Ali. Morihei Ueshiba. . .
Although each of the above listed Warriors were well known for their combative skills, it is their contributions to life philosophy and the transcendence of kicks and punches that makes them most fascinating. Please enjoy the few quotes I have selected as well as my commentary below.
Bruce Lee:
“Do not be tense, just be ready, not thinking but not dreaming, not being set but being flexible. It is being ‘wholly’ and quietly alive, aware and alert, ready for whatever may come.”
This state of relaxed readiness is difficult for many to achieve. Whether it is the mental replaying of our mistakes from the past, or the constant checking of a cell phone in anticipation of an incoming call, staying in the present moment is a rare achievement. Intentional time away from distractions, through practices such as seated meditation, walking in nature, and even playing with children and pets, can help us return to the moment of now.
Muhammad Ali:
“I hated every minute of training, but I said, don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.”
We all have moments where we want to quit. Where continuing down a path seems futile. And perhaps the particular path we are on is futile. But in our hearts, we know if the end result we seek is worthy and that is what we must not give up on. The price of aspiration plus action always involves some degree of pain and sacrifice. But it is these efforts of endurance that serve as gatekeepers for our worthy accomplishments.
Morihei Ueshiba:
“Progress comes to those who train and train. Reliance on secret techniques will get you nowhere.”
There are no secret techniques. There are no short cuts. No magic pills, potions, or powders will give you six-pack abs. No crash-course will bring you Internet riches. Nearly all things must be learned through the School Of Hard Knocks. The journey, the falling down and then getting up, is the reward.
Much of life involves conflict and the facing of obstacles – sometimes from external forces, and often from ourselves. And this is why looking to those who turned conflict into art can provide lessons that go far beyond the realm of physical combat.
Who else has turned conflict into art and left valuable life lessons as a result? Examples of historical figures or those in the present are all welcome. What lessons have they conveyed? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
And for more quotes from Bruce Lee, Muhammad Ali, and Morihei Ueshiba, be sure to receive the free PDF report by entering your email address here:
I've been helping people lose weight and get fit since 2001. To learn more about my simple approach to health and fitness 
I’m a bit of a wonk, so my childhood heroes were statesmen like Dag Hammerskjold, Ralph Bunch, and Zhou Enlai. Arguably one of the best statesmen was Winston Churchill, who was also and Army officer and artist. My favorite Churchill quote is:
“If you are going through hell, keep going.”
Sage advice that is both gritty and humorous.
Yes, love the Churchill quote!
Is it ridiculous if I mention an actress? Hilary Swank is one of my favorite actresses of today, and man has she come a long way. She was living in a car with her mother before she landed The Last Karate Kid! Did you see the way she changed her physique for Million Dollar Baby?! The amount of commitment and passion she pours into each of her roles is so moving. She’s also an avid runner, Krav-Maga student, and pilates enthusiast. She is proof that you’re never “stuck” in any situation, no matter how bad it seems. If you keep pushing, and believe that you can make it, you will.
Anyone who has gone from living in their car to a two-time Oscar winner sounds worthy of finding inspiration from to me! Thanks.
Cool download!
Morihei Ueshiba is new to me, I’m going to have to check him out more.
Thanks, Doug! Usehiba’s book “The Art Of Peace” is great.
Great post and some excellent examples and quotes from 3 legends indeed. I am a firm believer in that are there no magic pills or potions at all so right on Vic!
Even think I’ve used that wording before
Thanks, Natalie. Many people want the quick fix instant answer, but nothing replaces the tried and true path of experience and consistent effort.