Eleven Mottoes of Mas Oyama

• 1. The Martial Way begins and ends with courtesy. Therefore, be properly and genuinely courteous at all times.

• 2. Following the Martial Way is like scaling a cliff-continue upwards without rest. It demands absolute and unflattering devotion to the task at hand.
• 3. Strive to seize the initiative in all things, all the time guarding against actions stemming from selfish animosity or thoughtlessness.
• 4. Even for the Martial Artists, the place of money cannot be ignored. Yet one should be careful never to become attached to it.
• 5. The Martial Way is centred in posture. Strive to maintain correct posture at all times.
• 6. The Martial Way begins with one thousand days and is mastered after ten thousand days of training.
• 7. In the Martial Arts, introspection begets wisdom. Always see contemplation on your actions as an opportunity to improve.
• 8. The nature and purpose of the Martial Way is universal. All selfish desires should be roasted in the tempering fires of hard training.
• 9. The Martial Arts begin with a point and end in circle. Straight lines stem from this principle.
• 10. The true essence of the Martial Way can only he realised through experience. Knowing this, learn never to fear its demand.
• 11. Always remember: In the Martial Arts the rewards of a confident and grateful heart are truly abundant.

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