Included in this section are videos that might be of interest to visitors. At least, they're interesting to me. As with all things, don't believe everything you see. Question everything without loosing your reputation, sincerity, or respect.
NOVA’s Secrets of the Samurai: Cutting an arrow I came across this in researching a section for the new book on the use of the Force in Jedi combat. Many make the assertion that the Jedi must have used the Force to deflect blaster bolts in Star Wars. The scientifically inclined knew blaster bolts couldn't be light, so official Expanded Universe writers said it was plasma that was discharged from the blaster muzzle. They even linked Tibanna gas mined on gas planets like Bespin as the raw material for the plasma. While it is possible that the Jedi used the Force, my opinion is that it was also possible that the Jedi could have learned to deflect blaster bolts through training instead of using the Force to accomplish the same task. Lucas has never made a statement on this; and even if he did, I would still hold it suspect because has never trained in a traditional martial art. As food for thought, I offer this video of a Japanese swordsman cutting an arrow in half as it flies through the air toward him. The weight of a journalistic agency like PBS's NOVA program adds to the credibility of the footage. However, it must be understood that the presentation is a practiced skill under very specific conditions. As a critique of the vidio, you'll notice that Midori, the archer, pulls the string only to her chin, not all the way back to her shoulder which would have increased the velocity of the arrow. Also, I wonder whether the same feat could be accomplished with better bows or with different archers. Do NOT try this at home!
Obama vs. McCain Dance Off OK, so the election is over. But after months of being glued to the TV, we all need a little detox from the experience. Click on the video below to see two guys cut the rug with Obama's and McCain's faces digitally superimposed. Do NOT attempt this at home unless you are immune to the fear of embarrassment.
Shimmering Sword refers to the lightsabers of Star Wars. It's also the original title of my book.