Editor's Note: Back in 2005 I worked with a personal trainer in a six week self defense class. After the six weeks were up I was hooked and asked him if he could teach me more and have since learned stick fighting, street fighting and ground fighting. I have come to realize that this journey was not about fighting but about learning of myself.  I havesince grown in confidence and peace. The process is ongoing for me. I wrote this piece to depict the change in myself at the time.

The Dragon and the Phoenix

The dragon, flying upwards on wings of thunder

Dipping and swooping through the moonlit sky

Intent on his opponent

His courage fierce, rising high.

She watched as His wings unfurled in splendor

His tips to strike with the force of lightening

Honor bound in his quest

In His flames breathed the skill of fighting

With envy the Phoenix watched the sparring,

Wondering at the Dragon’s skill – how it could be.

With power and grace, up he flew into the night.

Fearless, Strong and intensely free.

With the battle complete, his great claws touching down

Over to him the phoenix flew, having the need to meet

With Fear rising in her chest as she approached

Her flames dimmed, as she knelt beneath his feet.

The eyes that met hers were filled with wisdom, older than his years

Knowing already what was in her heart, without arrogance, scorn or disbelief

The Dragon bowed his fierce head and acquiesced.

Her flickering wings arching in relief.

The days blended into themselves as he taught her

Yet not one day the same as before.

Her body often times bruised and aching

Yet of his knowledge, she had a constant need to know more.

Months slipped by as her flames dimming to smoldering embers

Soon lost their radiant heat.

The Dragon fearing her death as ashes became her plume.

For the first time in his heart felt imminent defeat.

But she knew what he did not,

at how close she was to heaven.

This dying bird, finally now a warrior within

The Phoenix looked toward the sun and at her own resurrection.