Just when you think you’ve heard everything, someone comes up with an innovative idea that sounds ridiculous at first. Upon examination, however, the concept seems to have merit and warrant additional investigation.

That’s why I stopped in my tracks while doing housework and listened to a report on CNN that classes in “Cane Fu” are the latest rage. People who must rely on canes often see them as a sign of disability and weakness, but now they are being encouraged to use them for empowerment and self defense

“The movements of Cane Fu are simple and swift,” said the instructor, called the Cane Master. He assured us that anyone who is the recipient of a Cane Fu blow will really feel it. Obviously, when approached by a purse snatcher, a cane could conceivably be used as a weapon by a trained and otherwise defenseless older person.

As someone who usually thinks beyond the ordinary, I fantasized about several everyday instances where canes might be useful. Mind you, I’m not advocating domestic or public violence, but imagine these scenarios and how Cane Fu might help.

Your husband tells you he’s playing golf for the 12th time in a week. “That’s what you think,” you say, as you strike a Cane Fu tap on his driving arm. Not to be challenged by a mere woman, he counters with a restrained blow of his own cane on your writing arm – the one that signs credit card slips. Marital disagreement resolved.

Cane Fu could also be used at public meetings when citizens are allowed to speak but the mayor and council take their comments as information only. I know it’s frustrating to voice a problem, hear the gavel strike and be told to contact town hall for an appointment when you want a resolution now.

Lazy salespeople might be more cooperative when confronted by a cane-bearing shopper who has completed Cane Fu training. Those employees who are less than helpful could have their work ethics adjusted in a hurry by a rap of the cane. Amazingly, merchandise that was “out of stock” will magically be found, and the bearer of the cane will go home a happy camper.

It remains to be seen whether Cane Fu becomes a popular method of defense, but imagine the possibilities.

T&D Correspondent Shirley Upton can be reached by e-mail at writer@ntinet.com.

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