Many centuries ago there lived a samurai named Miyamoto Musashi, who was a scuzzball, but became the greatest swordsman of all time.

Once he was wandering the wilds of Japan, studying The Way, developing his system of swordsmanship. While looking through the window of a farmhouse, he was surprised by the inhabitant, who was far from being a simple farmer. His name was Gonnosuke, who alone with his mother had developed a system of fighting with a staff. Both men were destined to become legends in their own time, but at this time they were young and unformed.

Gonnosuke attacked Musashi with his staff. Musashi backed away with his hand on his sword hilt. It was clear to him that if he drew his sword, his elbow would be momentarily vulnerable, and Gonnosuke would have the advantage of him. His only option was to withdraw. He did so stepping backwards, dodging and weaving. Gonnosuke followed him every step of the way, never letting him relax his guard.

Musashi paused. It was only a matter of time before he stumbled or lost his concentration. There was no way he could draw his sword. The future looked hopeless. Gonnosuke would smack him upside the head with his staff, and it was clear that if Gonnosuke smacked somebody upside the head, then they stayed smacked.

Acting on impulse, he stepped within Gonnosuke's reach and hugged him to his body. They locked eyes. Gonnosuke could not strike. Musashi then threw Gonnosuke to the ground and drew his sword.

This is the first lesson of the Way. If there is something that you would defeat, you must first clasp it to yourself. Do not be afraid of what it will do to you. Step within its grasp. Hug it, squeeze it, make it yours. Give it no space to breathe. Then, cast it away from yourself utterly. You will not be able to rid yourself of it totally until you first step within its embrace.

What does this mean to people with MS? Remember the Kübler-Ross model, also known as the Five Stages of Grief, referred to in Swim Parallel to Shore. We all go through the negative emotions of denial, anger, bargaining, and depression on our way to acceptance. The key to dealing with them as fast as possible is to emulate Musashi. No, not by going crazy with a sword. If you are experiencing a negative emotion, do not be afraid to let it take you. Step within its grasp. Hug it, squeeze it, make it yours. Give it no space to breathe Then, when you are ready, cast it away from yourself utterly and for all time.