Sometimes as we trudge through life, it is in our nature to be forceful and brash. We tend to “muscle” our way through tough situations and blaze our own trail, such is the “American” way of life. At times, however, it is beyond pertinent to consider another option; one not as headstrong and inconsiderate as we may be accustomed to. A way of passivity. A way of gentle subversion; to get someone to do something that you wanted them to do, but not allowing them to know you wanted them to do it. Tricking their mind into thinking that they may have the upper hand and then sweeping the rug, physically or metaphorically, out from underneath them. The Gentle Way. This is more in reference to the ideology that is taught by the Sensei in Judo, but it may very well transcend its practical application in the sport. It almost represents a universal reality. In fact: Nature, in essence, is thee strongest and most crafty Gentle Way master in existence. Her passivity is beyond measure and she quietly reinvents herself in unimaginable ways so that she continuously triumphs over the destructive nature of man. In the “end”, nature will reclaim our brittle bones and our desperate, volatile attempt at life will be over. In relation to “prepping/survival”, this ideology would better serve the individual who is understanding of their TRUE ability. This is not the ideology of the machismo, pig-headed guy who thinks he will just shoot everyone he doesn’t like and survive in a cataclysmic situation. Clearly that individual would not make it far, but the person who can gently subvert the megalomaniac and lull him into a false sense of authority and power can then undermine and usurp the fiend and protect his way of life. Sometimes bending to the will and harshness of another doesn’t mean you lose, but it can prepare you for the reverse action and ultimately you can come out on top. The situation will dictate your action, the opposite is true, at times force is very much needed and required. Have your mind and options open, consider the Gentle Way and how that can help you. Remember: If you cannot control your own mind and emotions, you truly have control over nothing.