Steven Duncan
“Know,” says the teacher, “about a circle you can draw in the air when your is arm extended and the ia/sword in your hand is at its maximum length… You must learn to see it even as your weapon is sheathed in your obi, because it is the circle of life or death – yours, others. While you are in this circle you are safe, but so is your enemy. They cannot touch you, and you cannot reach them. As soon as either of you steps into the other’s circle – and of course when you enter their circle, they enter yours – both of you are in danger. Th student must know and honour their limits, while simultaneously remaining humble and alert.
Know this circle. It is within mind but it is actual. Know how far you can reach with balance, and how close an opponent can come to you before you draw and cut. Does everybody understand or must I go through it again?
“Before even your first class I want you all to learn your circle so well that you know, immediately, when it is breached – and that includes someone behind you or off to the side, not just in front of you.”
The teacher smiles their most innocent smile. “Usually, I find it takes about ten years to get it right.”
