I am in the middle reading a few books and decided to throw another one in the mix. What the heck, it’s only another 100 pages. The Book of Five Rings is something I read 7 years ago and decided to re-read it because of the first page in the book. It reads:
The Winning Strategy
1) Do not harbor sinister designs.
2) Diligently pursue the Path of Two-Swords-as-One.
3) Cultivate a wide range of interests in the arts.
4) Be knowledgeable in a variety of occupations.
5) Be discrete regarding one’s commercial dealings.
6) Nurture the ability to see the truth in all matters.
7) Perceive that which cannot be seen with the eye.
8) Do not be negligent, even in trifling matters.
9) Do not engage in useless activity.
Miyamoto Musashi, the books original author, was a Samurai during the late 1500s and early 1600s. While Musashi-san is one of Japan’s most prolific Samurais, with an undefeated record, he later when on to become skilled craftsman, sculpting in wood and metal, as well as a calligrapher. He applied Zen and the same process of mastering the way of the Samurai to these other areas of his life, eventually reaching enlightenment.
It’s all about the “way.”