Hagakure - Quote for the Day

[Gyakuto114 123]

Entry 85

A warrior must actively learn from the strengths of others. When one notices, “this person is excellent in this respect” one should not envy him, but should make an effort to acquire that quality for oneself.

The hunger to learn from excellent people, and raise oneself accelerates growth as a warrior. Teachers from whom one should learn exist everywhere.

 

[Gyakuto114 123]

Entry 87

In discussion, a warrior must not rush to win. The purpose is not to defeat, the other person in words, but to arrive at a better conclusion.

Do not cling too strongly to one’s own opinions. If there is a correct part within the other persons view, acknowledge it, honestly. Even if one loses the argument, if one gains is a better idea, that is a victory in substance.

 

[Gyakuto114 123]

Entry 90

A warrior must not fear death, yet at the same time he must beware of useless death. While always keeping the resolve to throw away your life, one also needs the wisdom to discern where, and for what purpose of that life should be used.

To throw a life away recklessly is not courage, but thoughtlessness. To display ones greater strength and fall in the place most useful to Lord and domain: this is the ideal manner of death for a warrior.