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Because of this radical shift in direction, modern Japanese education has ignored the spirit of kokoro (shin). Too much emphasis placed on materialism has resulted in a loss of moral values. The Japanese people now face a social crisis. The time has come to learn in sincere humility the true meaning of “karate ni sente nashi” (there is no first attack in karate). Hence, I would like to introduce two poems which were handed down in Okinawa long ago.

Poem:

Chiyuni kurusatteya ninrarishiga, chiyukuruche ninraran

Interpretation:

In spite of being troubled by other people, one can still sleep. However, if one troubles other people, a guilty conscience makes it difficult to ever sleep soundly.

Poem:

Ijinu ijiraa tei hiki, teino dejiraa iji hiki

Interpretation:

Standing up for what one believes in

requires the balance of breath and force.

(too much of either is unwelcome)

These precepts were once closely associated with what has been historically described as the “Okinawan spirit.” I believe that these abstracts are excellent lessons for today’s karateka. Pondering the depth of their message one can recognize how self-control, the secret of karate-do, is the principal element in understanding that budo is not for fighting.