Okay, so I am a little embarrassed to admit this, but years ago when I was completely new to the world of martial arts, I did occasionally pick up a copy of Black Belt Magazine. Since I was, at the time, a teacher of English composition at Indiana University, my evaluation of the “rag” was swift and certain–almost totally worthless. There was, however, that one exception that kept me peeking at Black Belt whenever I got the chance–Dave Lowry’s elegantly written column, “The Karate Way.” Although the title indicates that the column was directed at karateka, I quickly discovered that the lessons and tidbits it contained were universally useful.
How marvelous, then, to finally have these essays collected into a single volume! Moving Toward Stillness is both a must-read and a keeper, and I’ve added it to our required reading list. Beginners will benefit from the wide range of topics and the curmudgeonly and well-argued criticism of the Westernization of the Japanese ways. Experts will find new analogies, unexpected contrasts, and a fresh perspective on cherished beliefs.
I recommend this book highly, but don’t take my word for it. Read the excerpts I’ve posted here: “Entering the Doorway“, “Get a New Wife“, and “The Luxury of Anger.” Then buy the book and enjoy the other forty-three chapters!