by Branko
I have been going through a tough time with depression and am currently hospitalized in a mental health clinic so I can take some time out and get better.
I have been training in the martial arts for many years, which includes training with the sword. The other day, I found a stick and went out into the courtyard to practice a sword form I have been learning.
Not long afterward, another patient stopped me in the corridor and asked if I was the one who was practicing the sword moves in the courtyard. When I said I was, she said, “It was so relaxing watching you practice. Your moves were so graceful. You are really good—please don’t give that up.”
I was totally blown away by this. I haven’t been training as much recently and was getting discouraged in my own practice. Her comments really made my day as I never thought my practice would have such a peaceful effect on someone.
There’s an old Samurai saying that the sword is used not to kill, but to bring others life. I feel very blessed that I was given a glimpse of this.
