Tonight my dashboard emitted the shrill signal that says I was running on empty and I had to sidle up to a pump, and pronto.

Fortunately, across from where I ate dinner there is a discount station that sells Union 76 gas, which I suppose is of fairly high quality because the company is so big.

Before pulling in, I noticed a disheveled hobo was leaning against the posts that under gird the big 76 sign. Every now and then he sneered or shouted at passing traffic and ogled the customers that stopped for gas.

Should I pull in? I asked myself.

After all, if you read my martial arts articles, you know Im a big fan of PREVENTION.

My advice is simple: If an environment is hostile, dont go there.

Split!

But here I was, in perhaps that very position. The gas is better and cheaper here than anywhere else within my tanks low range, but why expose oneself to a hassle or worse?

Still, there was a voice inside that said: Come on, you can handle him; easily!

And so I happily pumped my gas, cleaned the windshield, and took my time, and he didnt budge from his post.

I monitored the nonverbal expressions and body language of the other patrons, and Ill tell you, they were scared.

Then, I realized one of the benefits of studying martial arts for many years, rising to Black Belt, and training others.

I have a choice: fright or flight or flight. Or, none of the above, if I choose to communicate my way through the turmoil.

Anyway, having choices, being deliberate and thoughtful, calculating your responses, these things come from intensive study and practice.

And tonights non-problem is just a reminder that every ounce of sweat, every bruise and broken bone that I experienced, was worth it.