Strength

Always remember a primary goal of practice: to develop in one's self an alternative reaction when faced with conflict or violence so that one can diffuse violence, not escalate it. An aikidoka must become comfortable with conflict and violence and in the act of diffusing it. This does not mean one should seek out or instigate conflict. If no choice is given and violence or conflict is inevitable, one must face that conflict with a calm, clear mind (mushin - "empty mind", in Japanese) to successfully diffuse it. Letting emotion (anger, fear, etc) get the best of you will do nothing but escalate the conflict, something nobody truly wants.

Always remember that strength allows peace to be a choice. Choosing a peaceful resolution to a conflict from a position of strength allows you to target your enemy's attitude, not his body or his life. This is very important to remember.