Thanks @patriciorayaz. While the learning curve is a little humbling, I find that by the end of each class I just start to get in the flow, which is an amazing and very addictive feeling. There are also many times I am in awe of the intelligence of the defense or counter.

One thing I do like about this gym I'm at is that they don't let you start sparring with blue and purple belts until you get your "combatives" belt, which is after you've perfected and tested the basic self-defense moves. It's obviously still a white belt, but you've proven you at least know something, have conditioned your body, and can avoid injury, etc. It takes 8 to 12 months to get to that point. It's a good business model for the gym because people don't give up in those first few months and old guys like me don't get injured :)

The audiobook of Discipline Equals Freedom is great because you get to hear Jocko reading it. It's on Spotify and iTunes.

Followed you and looking forward to hearing how the Henry Akins camp goes.