3 symbols
A bit about the three symbols I use on my most recent batch of tshirts:
1) The Ronin Combatives emblem. This incorporates the Chinese characters from Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do symbol. They can be translated as 'Using no way as way. Having no limitation as limitation." This is an encapsulation of the JKD philosophy and process. Since JKD has and will always be foundational to what I teach, it is appropriate that the Ronin Combatives symbol reflects that.
At the center of the emblem is a wolf. The wolf represents the predator/prey reversal. It is a mindset. We, as social beings and protectors, do not seek unnecessary dominance over others through use of force. But, if we or our loved ones are attacked, we will do what we must to counter that violence. The predator who dared do us harm, will in turn, become prey.
Also, the wolf represents Nature which sustains us and gives us life. The more we understand of Nature, the more we understand ourselves. The more we understand ourselves, the more we can survive and thrive.
2) Progressive Fighting Systems emblem. Again, reflecting my foundation in Jeet Kune Do as well as Filipino martial arts, this is the symbol of sifu Paul Vunak's organization. Paul is a world renowned and highly sought after instructor of military organizations, law enforcement, and civilians. I received my instructor certification from him back in 1999 and have continued to evolve both as a practitioner and teacher, training in and researching many arts and systems.
3) Nin kanji. This kanji (Chinese character) as used in Japan traditionally carries the meaning of perseverance, but also stealth. It is the root kanji in the word Ninja (also Shinobi no mono). Having trained for a time in the ninja and samurai arts, as well as having made extensive study of the traditional literature and manuals associated with both, I incorporate aspects of the skillset, strategy, and mindset into what I teach and train. Therefore, to me, the nin kanji encompasses the survival, strategy, deception, evasion and escape elements of what we do. It refers to using whatever means are necessary to accomplish what must be accomplished. It is the philosophy underlying all that Ronin Combatives is and does, and as such, is open-ended.
So, that is a bit about the symbols. Maybe you wanted to know, maybe you didn't, but there it is. 🐺🥷🏼