Page 25 of Climb

Mark adjusts his weight from one leg to another, his eyes focused ahead. "About six months now," he replies, his voice steady. "I started after a close call at work. It made me realize I needed to be better prepared."

I nod. "Yes, it's amazing how quickly things can change. One moment you feel safe, and the next..."

"Exactly," Mark interrupts, his eyes softening as he remembers the ordeal. "But coming here has given me control over my own safety. Plus, it doesn't hurt to stay in shape either."

I chuckle. "Definitely a bonus," I agree.

As the instructor kicks off with a demonstration of a new technique involving joint locks, Mark and I follow along, practicing on each other with care. We talk off and on we practice our moves.

"Do you feel like these classes have made a difference for you?" I ask with genuine interest in his experience.

Mark pauses for a moment, contemplating his response. "Absolutely," he finally says. "Physically, I've become more aware of my body's abilities and my limits. Mentally, I have more confidence that I can protect myself and the people I care about."

I admire his resilience, comforted that I'm not the only one who understands the need for feeling powerful.

"That's great to hear," I say genuinely. "I'm just starting... working on getting there myself."

Mark smiles reassuringly. "You're doing great. It takes time and practice, but you'll get there."

I move through the exercises, feeling more comfortable with the positions. Each defensive pose and practiced strike feels more and more natural. I’m starting to believe that the fear that once clouded my actions will gradually be replaced by a sense of self-control. This isn’t just about learning self-defense. It’s time I reclaim the part of myself that I thought I’d lost.

During a short break, I engage in light conversation with other participants. A young mother with lively brown eyes is animated when she talks about how these classes have been transformative for her. Her enthusiasm is infectious.

As they share, I feel a sense of belonging, a connection. We’re all here for different reasons, but there's a shared goal – to gain strength and confidence. I no longer feel like just Talia, the woman hiding from her past. Here, I am part of a group, each of us on our own journey towards feeling stronger and more capable and ready for anything.

As the class has a second break, I linger for a moment, soaking in the communal feel. But as I step outside to get some fresh air before the last part of the class, the reality of my situation creeps back in. I can't get too comfortable. I have to lay low to stay safe.

I return inside just as the session was kicking off again, and the assistant instructor, Mr. Thompson, a tall man with a gentle face and broad frame that can take up an entire doorway, signals me to come forward.

"Talia, could you help me demonstrate this technique?" he asks, his voice booming through the quiet of the room.

I nod, feeling a flutter of nerves as I step up. Mr. Thompson's hair is neatly trimmed, specks of gray at the temples. He wears a black tracksuit, the fabric slightly worn from use. He checks what I’m doing with a supportive eye.

We position ourselves as he explains the technique – a defensive move designed to break free from a wrist grab. His instructions are clear, his movements precise. I mimic his actions, enjoying the experience of learning something that will help me in my real life.

As we finish the demonstration, Mr. Thompson turns to the class. "It's important to remember," he says, his tone serious, "that self-defense isn't about seeking confrontation. It's about being prepared to protect yourself if the need arises."

What he says resonates with me, stirring something deep inside.

Without thinking, I add, "Sometimes, being prepared is the only control you have in a situation where you're forced to run away from a dangerous situation."

The room falls silent, all eyes on me. I feel a sudden wave of vulnerability, having revealed a glimpse into my reality.

Why did I even say that?

I’m getting way too comfortable. And that needs to stop.

Mr. Thompson nods, his expression understanding. "That's a very important point, Talia. Self-defense is also about mental strength, about facing our fears and taking back control, no matter the situation."

The empathy in his voice, the understanding looks from the group, are not lost on me. I'm not alone here. I'm part of something, sharing a moment, a common thread with everyone here wanting to be ready and stronger if shit ever goes down.

A young woman named Sarah raises her hand, her eyes reflecting both curiosity and a touch of fear. "But how do we know when it's time to fight or run? I mean, in the moment, everything can happen so fast."

Mr. Thompson smiles kindly at Sarah before responding, "That's a great question, Sarah. One key is situational awareness. Being aware of your surroundings and assessing the threat level can help you make that split-second decision. And trust your instincts."

"And I noticed it's not just about physical confrontation," Mark chimes in, offering his own perspective. "sometimes, just showing confidence and assertiveness can discourage potential attackers."

"But what if you freeze?" Sarah continues her question. "What if fear takes over?"

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