Originally Posted by
Brandon Mccaghren
"This is one thing I developed a long time ago from my teachers - my jiu jitsu would be based on reaction. When you react, you don't give your mind time to get filled with emotions. You are devoid of anger, fear, and frustration; you are simply moving. If your opponent is pushing your elbow and you're tired and almost hurt, it doesn't matter because you are reacting already; you haven't given yourself time to get upset. That's why I follow this motto: no mind. If you do not think, you must feel your opponent and react accordingly."
- Saulo Ribeiro
An excellent lesson, not only for Jiu Jitsu, but for life. It is in our most vulnerable times when our character is exposed.
What did I put my reps in on? Was it anger? Jealousy? Childish behavior? Selfishness? When you are pushed, these will be your reactions. And you will likely be submitted by life in this encounter.
However, if I have put my reps in on patience, perseverance, self-control, focus, integrity, and love then when I am pushed with the problems of life, when I am cornered, these things will be my reactions. And when I find myself mounted by the struggles of life, I will conduct myself with strength, bravery, and confidence because this is where I have spent my training time.
And through these struggles I will become better. My reactions will become sharper and more crisp. And the fire of the struggles will refine me and make me strong. I will become a better husband. A better father. A better teacher. A better son.
And I will find peace and redemption in the midst of the chaos.
