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The cosmos is in constant conflict. The natural world is in constant conflict. Many nations, states, and even cities appear to be involved in endless conflict. Is it any wonder that people, including neighbors, families, and individuals face conflict too. The real surprise is that so many people think that conflict is actually avoidable.
Let’s review a typical day and “do the numbers.” You wake up late. Aggravation and conflict begins. No time for coffee. Rushing to work, every slowpoke seems to be in your lane and you are caught by every traffic light. While seething, you are imagining the lecture and disapproval of your boss. More conflict. You haven’t even gotten to work yet and there is still time for a police officer to pull you over for any number of traffic violations you know you committed but you will still ask, “Why did you pull me over, officer?” If we add the potential for road rage incidents and minor accidents, your day is going to be interesting indeed.
At work someone makes a snide comment or pushes a personal button. More conflict. By the time you get home and your family responsibilities add more conflict to the mix, you are probably in a foul mood and at the end of your rope. How calm are you going to be talking to anyone about anything?
By the way, this and a million more scenarios like it or worse, happen each and every day. If by some miracle, your day is going well, it’s certainly possible that another person’s is not. Much as we would like to avoid conflict, perhaps we need to learn how resolve it. In today’s world, it seems that self-absorbed people, who are easily offended, might have the most difficult time coping with conflict. That causes conflict too!
Those of us who have been in the Martial Arts a long time, recognize that conflict of some sort is inevitable and to some degree, normal. We try not to incite, but rather defuse conflict. Easier said than done.
Mr. Weber is the chief instructor at the Aikido Academy of Self-Defense located at 16134 N. Oracle Rd., in Catalina. He has more than 45 years of experience in the Martial Arts and has achieved skills in a variety of disciplines. He also teaches Tai-Chi on Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m. Please call (520) 825-8500 for information regarding these and other programs. If you wish, check out the website at www.AikidoAcademyOfArizona.com.
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