Developing compassion for others is a core concept in the practice of aikido. This means that we try to put ourselves in the position of the attacker, instead of judging him. Who does not know the urge to attack someone? To enter into battle when you yourself are being oppressed? This realization not only brings us closer to the motivation of the attacker, but also enables us to examine our own motivations. In this way we learn to deal better with both the aggression of the other, and our own aggression. We can then delve deeper into dealing with aggression and train ourselves to apply compassion in situations that require it of us. A life based on compassion with regard to the people around us, friend or foe, enables us to take a positive and constructive position in today's society. It is in this way that aikido can become a lifestyle.