Mixed Martial Arts Mirage?
mi·rage (m-räzh) n.
1. An optical phenomenon that creates the illusion of water, often with inverted reflections of distant objects, resulting from distortion of light by alternate layers of hot and cool air.
2. Something illusory or insubstantial.
His blog read, “I’m not just going out into the desert, I’m going out into the desert to hunt for lost treasure. I’m going on a pilgrimage of sorts, a journey to solitude, to do some thinking, and to pay my respects to the great mysteries.” With an appetite for adventure Texas born Evan Tanner, middle weight Mixed Martial Artist, outdoorsman, and wandering spirit went off on his lone southern California desert trek to explore inner & outer landscapes. He assured friends & fans he was aware “any failure of my equipment could cost me my life”. An aggressive and intimidating fighter, he believed in his own survivorship. His friends believed that he had overcome a dark period of personal problems in his life and was up to the risky expedition. He even brought a cell phone along…a lifeline. He called a friend to say his bike was out of gas and he would walk to safety. It was the last call he made. Alone, with temperatures nearing 115 degrees, at age 37, he succumbed to the elements 3 miles from camp.
What happened on that fated day in the desert? It’s hard not to wonder — was he physically, emotionally and spiritually prepared for the trip?
The ancient Greek aphorism “Know Thyself” has great import, but how does one measure personal truth against illusion? Do we truly know who we are? Is our perception accurate? Do the people we know and trust hold up a mirror for us? Do we do the same for them? When we believe we see safety and salvation — do we? Or is it a mirage?
Martial Arts is about vigilance, with a clear survey of the opponent, the landscape — ever scanning the situation and all of its variables. Anticipation helps to plan accordingly. It is paying attention and being prepared. Every martial artist would agree.
We will never know what happened. Or why. Perhaps the air and light created a mirage. Maybe Tanner saw a cool, clear pool of water in the distance and thought he could reach it. How precarious life is. How fragile we are, even the tough guys.
Condolences to family & friends.
Toni Josephson
Add comment September 17th, 2008