Our mission, as in our slogan, is to Empower the Peaceful Warrior.
But what does that mean?
Much of the philosophy of Progressive Defence comes from the masterful writings of Dan Millman. Dan describes his decision to live as a Peaceful Warrior this way:
“As a peaceful warrior, I would choose when, where and how I would behave. With that commitment, I began to live the life of a warrior.”
We view our students as warriors. Strong of body, mind and character. Capable of surmounting any obstacle in their path. Capable of ferocity on demand, be it in the office, in matters of the heart, or indeed in the pavement arena of self defence.
However, we do not strive to create thugs or bullies. Our warriors are peaceful warriors. They live lives of peace and love, not because they have no other option, but because the have chosen to. Truly a Peaceful Warrior is someone capable of great love, capable of ferocious action, and completely content with when to use either.
Millman also writes:
“The peaceful warrior's way is not about invulnerability, but absolute vulnerability--to the world, to life, and to the Presence you felt. All along I've shown you by example that a warrior's life is not about imagined perfection or victory; it is about love. Love is a warrior's sword; wherever it cuts, it gives life, not death.”
And thus, throughout all matters of training, we strive to help out students become better people, able to make better choices, and make the changes they wish to see in our world.