24 December 2008

The Way of the Warrior

These are the Precepts of Musashi, that personify the Way of Bushido. It is precious and commendable knowledge: Accept everything just the way it is; Do not seek pleasure for its own sake; Do not, under any circumstances, depend on a partial feeling; Think lightly of yourself and deeply of the world; Be detached from desire your whole life long; Do not regret what you have done; Never be jealous; Never let yourself be saddened by a separation; Resentment and complaint are appropriate neither for oneself or others; Do not let yourself be guided by the feeling of lust or love; In all things have no preferences; Be indifferent to where you live; Do not pursue the taste of good food; Do not hold on to possessions you no longer need; Do not act following customary beliefs; Do not collect weapons or practice with weapons beyond what is useful; Do not fear death; Do not seek to possess either goods or fiefs for your old age; Respect Buddha and the gods without counting on their help; You may abandon your own body but you must preserve your honour; Never stray from the Way.

Needham

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