After years of study, I have come to a small understanding of the way of strategy. I will here explain some strategy as it applies to warrior-citizens. Seek whatever truth you may find here, then continue on your search for enlightenment.

In the broad view, a warrior must uphold the values of his or her society to be of any honorable use. We all depend on one another. The warrior must quell disorder, promote peace, and cultivate character. In practicing the ways of war, one has an obligation to not use them in an illegal or immoral fashion.

Let us now consider fighting tactics. First, we must understand self defense. One should exercise caution in the use of force. Awareness must have the highest priority.

In self defense, one must be able to read the situation and potential adversary. Pay attention to the neighborhood, your own mental and physical state, as well as the mental state of potential attackers. One can never be too careful. When visiting a new area, stay in well lit areas that seem safe. Also try to find good information on the right places to stay if you are going to be in town for a while.

There are many articles on the uses of makeshift weapons, and weapon disarms. Not all such articles are realistic, nor are any of them a substitute for hands-on defense training. They may be a supplement to such training from a true instructor. The broken rhythm of fighting, the form without form, and the warrior's mindset are difficult to learn without guidance.

There is never enough thought given to proper timings. Blend with or break the opponent's energy, rhythm, or attitude. Read timings/habits quickly. This is applied to hand to hand combat, large scale combat, and overall strategy. Study this well.

You must be ready to defend yourself as soon as you leave your home, even if you are not feeling well, caught off guard, outnumbered, or overwhelmed by a stronger attacker intent on killing you. You must be prepared for the worst. End the fight as soon & as peacefully as possible; simplicity & instinct are key!

In life, stay truthful to yourself and loved ones. Take the most honorable course of action in every situation; your enemy today may become your ally tomorrow. Your best friend can be your worst enemy because he or she knows the most about you. It is in this case you must treat them as honorably as possible. Also remember that what protects and upholds you today may hinder you tomorrow. Watch carefully, ask questions, and do not ever stop learning. This will be your lifelong progress, and contribution.
*****

Many fights actually begin at or near home; before a disagreement turns into an altercation, try to defuse the situation. In any altercation, use positive reinforcement. "I know / am sure you're a nice person, but I would rather not (fill in the blank)." Remember, martial arts are not just collections of fighting techniques, but "arts" by which we defend the quality of life for ourselves and others.

"Budo" and "kung fu" have rather holistic meanings for everyday life, and not simply "martial arts", as they are so commonly translated. In this sense, "martial art" may itself take on a new meaning. "Martial" certainly connotes fighting tactics, yet "art" presents a deeper level of understanding. Do everything you can to "preserve the whole". Do not fight if possible, or to take the path of least resistance if conflict is inevitable. Fight out of necessity rather than hostility.

Let us further look into how to apply the art of strategy as it relates to self defense. The attacker believes he/she has an advantage. This may include a weapon, surprise, strength, and so forth. He / she is also more likely to attack you if he / she sees you as a potential victim. Therefore, be cautious when you are fatigued or alone, and do not appear timid, even if you are smaller than potential attackers. Always try to stay aware, and prepared to talk your way out of a situation, or defend yourself.

The environment, mindset of the attacker, and effects of panic will further handicap you. Your attackers do not come at you in prearranged patterns. You have to be ready to fight back, and take the initiative, because every second counts!

The best defense is a good offense. Use distance and the environment; be spontaneous. This is all very important against multiple assailants! Your movements must be fluid, economical, and not overly mechanical. The longer the fight, the more dangerous it becomes! When you are in unfamiliar territory, try to scan for escape routes, taking potential obstacles into account. Don't forget to pack along something like pepper spray, or be ready to pinch and bite if needed to distract adversaries before your knockout blow. Overall, you want to be as prepared as possible for potential violence.