A Somber Week in America: Reflections on Tragedy, Human Frailty, and the Path to Inner Strength
- Self Defense Academy COS
- Sep 14
- 6 min read
As the calendar flips to September 11, 2025, a day already etched in our collective memory as a symbol of unimaginable loss and resilience, America finds itself grappling with a cascade of fresh wounds. This past week has been a brutal reminder of the fragility of life and the persistent shadows that haunt our society. From senseless violence on our transit systems to horrors unfolding in our schools, and even the shocking assassination of a prominent/controversial public figure, the news cycle has painted a picture of a nation struggling under the weight of its own divisions. It's hard not to feel a profound somberness—a deep-seated doubt about whether we, as humans, truly have what it takes to transcend our baser instincts and build a world of peace. Yet, in the midst of this darkness, there lies a philosophical anchor that can guide us away from becoming the perpetrators of such negativity. Today, I want to explore these events, reflect on their implications, and introduce a timeless framework that offers not just survival, but true elevation: the 753 Code.
The Tragedies That Shook Us
Let’s start with the heartbreaking story of Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee who fled the war in her homeland only to meet a tragic end in Charlotte, North Carolina. Iryna was fatally stabbed on a Charlotte light rail train by Decarlos Brown Jr., a 34-year-old man with a history of criminal activity and mental health issues. Surveillance footage, released in early September, captured the chilling, unprovoked attack as Iryna, wearing headphones and scrolling on her phone, was stabbed in the throat while riding the Lynx Blue Line. She had been working at a pizzeria, aspiring to become a veterinary assistant, and was described by friends as a gifted artist full of vibrant spirit. Her death, a stark symbol of lost potential, has sparked nationwide outrage and renewed debates about public safety, mental health, and justice system failures.
Then, closer to home here in Colorado—our shared home state—came the devastating school shooting at Evergreen High School on September 10. A student opened fire with a handgun, wounding two fellow teens before turning the weapon on himself and later succumbing to his injuries. The incident unfolded around 12:30 p.m. in this quiet suburban area about 30 miles west of Denver, transforming a typical school day into a nightmare. Students and staff at Evergreen, just weeks into the new school year, were left shaken, with the community rallying in vigils and calls for change. This isn't just another headline; it's a visceral blow to parents, educators, and young people everywhere, reigniting debates on mental health, gun access, and the safety of our learning environments. Living in Colorado, it feels personal—our mountains and open spaces are meant to inspire freedom, not fear.
Adding to the national shock, this very week—September 10—we learned of the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, who was shot and killed during an event on a Utah campus. The shooter remains at large, with authorities describing the attack as a political assassination amid heightened tensions. Kirk, known for his outspoken views and campus tours, was a polarizing figure, but his murder has sparked widespread condemnation and fears of escalating political violence. President Trump addressed the nation, linking it to broader patterns of demonization and unrest, including past attempts on his own life. This tragedy, occurring on the anniversary of 9/11, amplifies the irony and pain: a day meant for remembrance of unity in the face of terror now marred by fresh division.
And, of course, this week marks the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks—a day when nearly 3,000 lives were lost in acts of hatred that forever altered our world. The memorials, the lowered flags, the moments of silence—they all serve as a poignant backdrop to this week's events, reminding us that violence, whether from abroad or within, continues to test our resolve.
The Human Struggle: Do We Have What It Takes to Transcend?
These incidents, piling up in rapid succession, evoke a profound sense of melancholy. They make you question the human condition: Why do we keep repeating these cycles of destruction? From the personal vendettas fueling urban shootings to the isolation driving school violence, and the ideological extremism behind assassinations, it feels like we're trapped in a loop of our own making. The somber feeling is inescapable—a collective sigh that perhaps we humans just don't have the innate tools to rise above our primal urges for revenge, power, or escape. In a world of rapid change, where social media amplifies anger and isolation breeds desperation, it's easy to lose faith in our capacity for transcendence. We see the worst in ourselves reflected back, and it begs the question: How do we break free from becoming the very people who perpetrate such negativity?
It's here, in this reflection, that philosophy becomes our lifeline. Not abstract theorizing, but a practical foundation that reshapes how we navigate existence. Enter the 753 Code—a profound philosophical framework rooted in the ancient wisdom of jujutsu, designed to foster resilience, balance, and moral integrity. This code isn't just a set of rules; it's a blueprint for living that immunizes us against the darkness by cultivating the best within.
The 753 Code: A Philosophical Shield Against Negativity
At its core, the 753 Code, as embraced by traditions like JuJutsu and self-defense practices, breaks down into three pillars: seven spiritual virtues, five values for the body, and three states of the mind. Grandmaster Pedro Valente Sr. once said, "The secret of jujutsu is in its philosophy," and this code embodies that truth, turning martial discipline into a holistic way of life.
The Seven Spiritual Virtues: Rectitude, courage, benevolence, respect, honesty, honor, and loyalty. These are the moral compass points that guide our actions. By living with rectitude (moral uprightness) and benevolence (kindness toward others), we resist the impulses that lead to violence. Courage isn't about aggression; it's about standing firm in principles without harming others. This foundation makes us immune to becoming the type who lashes out—because we choose honor over hatred, loyalty to community over isolation.
The Five Values for the Body: Exercise, nutrition, rest, hygiene, and positivity. These aren't just health tips; they're the building blocks of a resilient vessel. A well-cared-for body supports a clear mind, reducing the stress and despair that can fuel negative behaviors. Positivity, in particular, acts as a shield, encouraging us to see potential in ourselves and others rather than threats.
The Three States of the Mind: Awareness, balance, and flow. Awareness keeps us vigilant without paranoia; balance ensures emotional equilibrium in turbulent times; flow allows us to adapt gracefully, turning potential conflicts into opportunities for growth. Together, they nurture wisdom and discipline, aligning body, mind, and spirit in harmony.
Adopting the 753 Code isn't about achieving perfection overnight—it's a daily practice that builds an unshakeable inner strength. It reminds us that transcendence isn't some distant ideal; it's forged through intentional living. In a week like this, where humanity's flaws are on full display, this philosophy offers hope: By internalizing these principles, we become guardians of peace, not contributors to chaos.
Self-Defense: A Foundation for Courage, Not a Cure-All
Of course, philosophy alone isn't enough in a dangerous world—we must also equip ourselves practically. Knowing how to defend yourself isn't a panacea; it won't eradicate societal ills or prevent every tragedy. But it does provide a solid foundation to traverse this existence with courage and confidence. Self-defense training, grounded in the 753 Code, teaches more than techniques; it instills the discipline to avoid conflict when possible and the skills to protect what's precious when necessary. It's about representing the best of what we can be: empowered individuals who contribute positively, undeterred by fear.
Imagine facing life's uncertainties not as a victim of circumstance, but as a warrior of integrity—aware, balanced, and ready. That's the transformative power here.
Join Us: Experience the Foundational Shift
If this resonates with you, if you're ready to embrace a philosophy that elevates you above the fray, I invite you to come experience this foundational shift at the Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs. Located downstairs at The Co-Working Space at The Next Us (525 N Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80907), our academy integrates the 753 Code into every class, helping you unlock your potential in a supportive community. Whether you're new to self-defense or seeking deeper mastery, our programs foster the mind, body, and spirit alignment you need to thrive. Stay strong. Stay true. Stay 753—because YOU are worth defending.
In the face of this week's sorrows, let's choose transcendence. Together, we can prove that humanity does have what it takes. A Somber Week in America: Reflections on Tragedy, Human Frailty, and the Path to Inner Strength
Thought of the Moment: "I can be changed by what happens to me, but I refuse to be reduced by it" - Maya Angelou
Comments