Why the Sheathed Sword? Because this column is not intended to do combat. Oh, I may argue some with what others say, but my goal is to write truth, my truth, and let it ride. To show, persuade, perhaps, reveal.
The name “Sheathed Sword” comes from the ancient Chinese military analyst and commander Sun Tzu, who wrote: “The skillful leader subdues the enemy’s troops without any fighting; he captures their cities without laying siege to them; he overthrows their kingdom without lengthy operations in the field. With his forces intact he disputes the mastery of the empire, and thus, without losing a man, his triumph is complete. This is the method of attacking by stratagem of using the sheathed sword.” [Sun Tzu, The Art of War, Ch. III].
I do not intend this warlike purpose. Rather, short of combat, I intend to park my weapons and explore. Widely. Some of this may be about politics and world events. Some of it may be about what culture - poetry, fiction, art, performance - bring to our lives and understanding. Some of it may be spiritual: where is the world headed, where are you headed, where am I going and what does it mean for the human soul.
And some will doubtless be personal, sociological, about our lives and society in this contested moment in human history. How we relate to each other, to ourselves. Buddha will appear, from time to time; other writers and thinkers and “players.”
So, my goal is to be deliberately eclectic. Sometimes I will write what I think about politics and world events, drawing on a 45 year career in those worlds. Sometimes I will post poetry I have written, evoking feelings and thoughts. Sometimes I will write about a social phenomenon that interests me or is suddenly in the news. Sometimes I will write about relationships, gender, sexuality, reflecting on my own journey.
Initially, the writing will be irregular. It may become more regular over time, as my life changes continue to take place. It’s a way to explore and to be in touch, to discuss, to agree or disagree, but with an open mind and heart.
I look forward to your participation.
Sounds intriguing and maybe even fun! I do this because I haven't before and I like your writing.
I guess I must follow the last two comments with "I'm bored" and looking forward to your musings.