the way of the peaceful warrior

In the technological age there is diminished choice about ways of making a living; it is more competitive, and there is increased emphasis on the individual's responsibility for sustaining himself.

Fulfilling one's potential, overcoming dissatisfaction and frustration, and responding to changing circumstances all demand strength and resilience.

My experience throughout the last 30 years is that practicing the disciplines of taiji, qigong karate and white crane has kept me moving forward through times of great uncertainty and difficulty.

The martial arts have been my own health insurance and income protection for most parts sustaining my health and speeding up recovery time.

Tangible benefits are health and fitness: minor (especially winter) illness is greatly reduced in incidence and severity.

I have become aware of the effects of what I consume, especially on my energy level and enthusiasm.

Psychological well being is a corollary of physical awareness.

I find I am able to work within, but not succumb to the negative influences which abound in a compulsive and excessive society, because my intention is clear.

This training has given me strength, flexibility, sensitivity and a constantly enhanced appreciation of what life offers.

These are expansive activities, which in turn help me to create more for others.

I use these ancient skills to maintain a calm in all areas of life; the martial arts train one in the art of the appropriate response.

On the other hand the reality of being a professional musician also does not resemble my youthful dreams of wealth and fame.

The business of music is the extreme version of selling oneself, over and over again, but the spark has stayed alive......

"Sometimes divinity intervenes and provides those moments of being - pure creativity - which make the decades of struggle worthwhile".