Shakubuku (折伏)

"Shakubuku" is a term that originates from one of the early Buddhist texts. It is the breaking of preliminary thoughts; old thoughts must be subdued to keep advancing. The Buddhist monk Nichiren refers to it as a method of "opening the eyes." American physicist Thomas Kuhn called it a "paradigm shift." However, the film Grosse Pointe Blank eloquently refers to it as "a swift, spiritual kick to the head that alters your reality forever." And that's how it felt when I heard Enson speak. It changed my outlook on martial arts, not as a series of techniques but as a series of lessons. I rededicated myself: reading, studying, and training. Enson is known to say, "At least one time in your life, train with the will to die." I thought that was a cool way to train hard, but after speaking with him, I know what he really means: You must face death to understand anything else. Put yourself in a place where you can open your eyes.

A Fateful Opportunity

I was writing an article about what it means to be a martial artist. I had more contributions than I could use, but hearing Enson's thoughts was what I considered the crown jewel for the piece. I sent him a message and thought nothing of it; I didn't expect a response.

Enson is a living legend and one of the most respected fighters in mixed martial arts. You put the devil on the other side of the ring and Enson would still come out to fight; he never quits. Being a celebrity in Japan, I assumed he would be busy with media engagements, seminars, training his fighters, but most of all his humanitarian efforts for the people of Fukushima (2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami). Within a few hours, I received a response — Enson was game. I didn't want to take up too much of his time, a few sentences over email would suffice. Without hesitation he sent me his personal phone number in Japan. We spoke after his morning run, then the conversation drew out.

Dialogues With Enson