Bushido Code-The Warrior's Way of Life

During times of peace in Japan, the role of the Samurai changed from a warrior status to more of a bureaucratic role. More of their focus was being devoted to personal accomplishments and cultural matters rather than training exclusively for combat. The Samurai used their skills in self-discipline and the martial arts to help them study and teach the arts and literature. Poetry became a favored form of expression. It is during this period (starting around the 16^th century) when much of the philosophy of Bushido was written.

We feel the poem shared below, by Robert H. Cathcart, is reflective of the tenants similar to those held by Samurai warriors. We hope our readers find the same appreciation for its relevance.

I am what I am

I am what I am forever

Unless there is reason to change

In dreams to dedicate living

To expand my human range.

I seek the personal courage

To strive and work for the good,

Do best for all of my neighbors

For me, and all brotherhood.

I want my life to be fulfilled

Work to achieve my goals

Open my mind to the truth.

Act out my self chosen role.

I prize ancestral family,

For decency, virtue, and hope.

Wish to reflect integrity

Create my Kaleidoscope.

I know me flawed and imperfect

But am willing to give it my best.

My pledge is to make the effort

To rise above the unbridled rest.

By Robert H. Cathcart (Guest Blogger)

When you go out your door, it is like seeing an enemy. Since you are a professional warrior and wear swords at your side, you should never forget the spirit of combat at any time. ¹

Not Forgetting Combat was mandatory for Samurai in feudal Japan for death was always on their minds; people today can benefit from the basic message of this code which is to always be prepared for threats and conflict. Samurai warriors were expected to anticipate an attack whether at home, while bathing and most importantly when answering the door. It was customary for warriors of all ranks to always wear a sword by their side; even in warrior houses. In reality, our modern day world is for the most part civil; however, people are still motivated by egos and driven by greed.

Violence is still prevalent today and those who are better prepared may increase their chances of survival. Combat is defined as a fight, struggle, or controversy, as between two persons, teams, or ideas. Though the Bushido translation applies to physical combat, people today encounter many types of conflict. Regular physical training, a heightened awareness, and educational resources help to increase a person’s self-confidence. Preparedness in all aspects of life can have a positive impact on the quality of life.

Not Forgetting Combat is a mindset that helps us to be the best we can physically and emotionally. It is a discipline that is an “ideal” and can be used as a guide to cope with conflicts in our life. We are all individuals who can benefit from self-development; however, we need to be aware of our personal limitations and consult with a physician before making any kind of drastic change. In fact, growth is not drastic and is a slow process that occurs over time. It is highly individualized!

Conflict in Today’s Society

Movies can lead to misconceptions about self-defense in an attempt to create drama. Characters are often times seen defending themselves against groups of thugs with weapons, or defending themselves against an attacker in an alley. While these situations do happen, there are many other forms of assault that can happen in places were we spend most of our time (like work and home). Assault can be in the form of a physical attack or in the form of verbal abuse or harassment.

Aggravated Assault is the most common violent crime today according to the US National Crime Prevention Council, and the threat of death or serious injury is substantially higher than other forms of assault. The media bombards us with the details of many violent crimes and just a quick search on the internet reveals that these crimes happen everywhere.

A person is guilty of aggravated assault if he or she attempts to cause serious bodily injury to another or causes such injury purposely, knowingly, or recklessly under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to the value of human life; or attempts to cause or purposely or knowingly causes bodily injury to another with a deadly weapon.

Though aggravated assault is one of the most severe forms of assault, other types of conflict may be prevented or stopped by being better prepared. When someone attacks us verbally, we are often times caught by surprise and fear gets in the way of rational thought. By knowing more about human rights and seeking out adequate resources, people can prepare themselves to deal with these kinds of threats.

Violence and Harassment in the Workplace

Some employees endure physical and verbal assault in the workplace by other employees, customers, and patients (health care workers). The Federal Bureau of Investigation takes workplace violence seriously. Verbal assault may be unreported due to fears of job loss. Verbal abuse or assault can leave people feeling helpless and hopeless without the proper resources. Employers have a legal and ethical obligation to promote a work environment free from threats and violence…and employees have the right to expect a work environment that promotes safety from violence, threats and harassment.

Domestic Violence

Intimate partner violence (domestic violence) is a serious form of abuse that often times goes unreported because a controlling partner instills fear in another through manipulation. There are many resources for victims of domestic violence and a call for help is the first step—this takes courage.

An increase in self-confidence helps individuals to take back control of their lives. Low self-esteem, internal control, or assertiveness can cause people to fear conflict situations and become easy targets for more aggressive or manipulative people.  Even people with relatively good self-esteem can be manipulated when they run into someone extremely skilled at manipulation.  Developing your self-esteem, internal control, and assertiveness skills can make you much stronger in conflict situations or any situations involving differences of opinion.

Physical Training and Preparedness

“The more you sweat in peace, the less you bleed in war.”

^{An old Asian Proverb}

As an optimist, I like to think that our attitude has a huge impact on our life. I have learned that positive thoughts and actions seem to attract positive energy. On the other hand, as a martial artist I understand that when “your life is on the line, you want all your weapons to be of use”². Those who have experienced a threat first-hand, realize that safety awareness and knowledge of self-defense are forms of weaponry.

Some martial artist study with competition in mind and others train for self-defense. A student that is self-confident and mindful of “Not Forgetting Combat,” is prepared but reacts only when the situation demands a call for action. The main goal for training and preparedness is to increase confidence and stamina.

Other forms of fitness may also help to develop speed, agility and strength and should not be overlooked. Serious athletes prepare for games and events which can be a form of combat in sport.

Although adequate training and preparation can help a martial artist defend themselves in physical combat, a true martial artist understands it’s better to try and steer clear of dangerous situations. They avoid a fight, don’t enter into a potentially dangerous situation, and maintain a high sense of awareness of their surroundings.

Safety Tips:

We recommend seeking the advice of a physician first before changing or starting a new fitness program!

Visit selfdefenseforher.com, a website offering basic self-defense techniques. Though the blog addresses women’s self defense, the tips can apply to men as well. A few of the general safety tips are listed below. Thanks to my former Tae Kwon Do instructor Mr. Carlos Mercado for sending me the following information! You can visit his website @ www.MartialArtsKia.com

General Safety Tips

For more safety tips and resources visit www.selfdefenseforher.com

• If you see or sense problems on your way, just change your route and prepare to run or defend yourself.
• Do not wear conspicuous jewelry when you are walking on the streets alone.
• Do not hitchhike, use buses or taxis instead.
• Do not act or look like an easy target – look confident!
• Most “fights” are won before they start. Aggressors will back down if you maintain eye contact and are not intimidated by them.

1. Kim, Tae Yun. Seven Steps to Inner Power. San Rafael, CA: New World Library, 1991. Print. Pg 30.
2. Scott Wilson, William. Miyamoto Musashi: The Book of Five Rings. td. Japan: Kodansha International Ltd., 2002. Print. Pg. 50

by Vangi Cathcart
(guest blogger)

There is a legend claiming that the Samurai warriors practiced calligraphy daily in order to develop their skills in swordsmanship. This art form requires discipline, strength, focus and awareness—skills necessary for a warrior. Calligraphy was taught and practiced by Asian youths in their early years. Calligraphy can be compared with our alphabet. However, the characters represent pictures, whereas our letters form words that are combined into sentences. The Asian fine art of Sumi-e developed over the years from calligraphy and is seen hear in my paintings.

Calligraphy is a disciplined practice and many rules need to be observed to create the exact stroke. To begin, one needs to have the

proper supplies, called the Four Treasures; the brush, the stick and stone (to make ink) and rice paper. A skill is developed in obtaining the proper moisture of ink and water on rice paper to paint a character. When applying the ink to the paper the whole arm is used in making a stroke. There are many styles of calligraphy that have come through the ages. Both calligraphy and Sumi-e are disciplines that involve much practice to create the exact replica of a style or subject being painted. In addition the artist needs to get in touch with their chi energy (universal energy) to produce the feeling in a finished artwork.

No longer depended on to protect the clan after the dissolution of the fifes in Japan, Samurai warriors learned to transfer their skills from fighting into creating beautiful works of art. Using their calligraphy strokes they made paintings from their natural surroundings. Flowers, animals and beautiful landscapes were some of their favored subjects.

My personal interest in ink painting evolved from living and teaching a holistic life style—I believe to be a warrior’s way. My belief and experience is that practicing an art form like Sumi-e contributes to a healthy body, mind and spirit. As a mental health practitioner, I have learned and teach others that we are co-creators with the universe. Focusing on creativity keeps our mental attitudes and emotions healthy, and nature’s beauty is a wonderful way to express this co-creation.

Vangi’s Sumi-e Art

Vangi Cathcart is an artist and holistic health practitioner. Her work has been selected and displayed at various art shows throughout the country and some of her paintings are for sale. For more information about her work or if you would like to purchase her art, please submit your request for information in the Contact Us page.

“In olden times, they say, warriors of all ranks considered archery and horsemanship the highest martial arts.”¹

In early civilization, horses became a technological resource for people to get from one place to another faster than on foot. Horses carried much more than a man could carry on his back and a warrior on a well-trained horse had a strong advantage in battle over adversaries fighting from the ground. A skilled swordsman could strike downward in both directions when fighting attackers from below and an archer had the advantage of moving swiftly on horseback while shooting from a distance. Native American’s selected a War Pony based on their speed, agility, sure-footedness, endurance and dependability. “Native riders realized that their success and their survival depended on the relationship they built with their horses.”² The presence of a rider atop a fast powerfully built horse was an intimidating force; adding to the confusion and ciaos on a battlefield.

This level of skill could not be acquired without first understanding that the horse and rider must become one—just as the Yin and Yang Chinese symbol represents opposites forces interconnected and in balance.

“A warrior’s ability to communicate with his horse is one of the most valuable skills he could develop.”³ As heard animals, a horse needs a leader. The rider must establish this hierarchical relationship by learning to master the equines body language and subtle cues required for it to develop trust as a follower. “Although body language is the primary means for equine communication, horses also use a range of sounds to talk to each other. The most prominent among these are the neigh, nicker, snort, and squeal.”⁴ Our historical relationship with the horse was a vehicle for riders to master a skill, improve communication and improve other types of conduct becoming of a warrior.

The Horsemanship Code in Today’s Society

The well-known fighting systems of the martial arts like Karate, Tae Kwon Do and Aikido have transformed from a military necessity to an art form with “new purposes: physical fitness, spiritual composure, character development, and sport.” http://yalepress.yale.edu/yupbooks/book.asp?isbn=9780300116748

A warrior interested in living the code of the traditional Samurai should also view Horsemanship as a martial art to be mastered. Just as a student of the fighting arts is encouraged to spar against different types of opponents in a self-defense class, a warrior must learn to ride horses of a different size, speed, agility and temperament. “You should have the look of being able to move with that horse in perfect balance with him; you should flow with his movements, and not resist him.”⁵ This level of horsemanship takes courage, discipline and years of practice.

All Warriors are Livelong Students

Everything eventually comes full circle in our lives especially our need to fulfill the passions and dreams we held in our youth. It was intriguing for me to learn that horsemanship was one of the warrior codes for Samurai.  I have always had a lifelong passion for horses. One of my personal goals this past year was to start learning more about Horsemanship.

My grandfather first introduced me to horses when I was a young child and I always admired his connection with these mysterious animals. Though I was around horses most of my life, I never took a formal lesson. Just last year, I had a vivid dream that my grandfather, who died several years back, was sitting at the kitchen table in my childhood home. In this dream, I was an adult. He looked younger than when he died–vibrant and strong. From my heart, I thanked him for introducing me to horses and explained that I have always had a passion to ride. He looked at me lovingly but with seriousness in his tone and said, “Just ride!”

I took the leap this past fall and did what my grandfather in my dream suggested. I contacted a horse farm in Raleigh that offered Western style riding instruction–my personal preference. As I reflect on my first few lessons, I realize that my instructor started with the basics while introducing me to three different horses during each lesson—each one a different size, speed, agility and with a different temperament. He was reinforcing the code. He also wanted me to remember that horses are horses and are therefore unpredictable, so effective communication is essential in becoming a skilled rider.

Historically a true warrior did not use horses for monetary gain but rather as an aid to survival. They were trading and breed in colonial times and the population of different breeds grew in the Americas based on demand; however, the true warrior’s interest in the horse was “in their necessity for maneuvering while heavily armed. For them, horses were substitutes for their own two feet.”⁶

There are certain rules and expectations found in the warrior code that became a consistent part of Samaria practice and teachings. The lessons found in the Code have been passed down five-hundred years, and are consistent with the teachings found in many modern day martial art forms. The handbook “was composed to provide practical and modern instruction for warriors, correcting way-ward tendencies and outlining the personal, social, and professional standards of conduct characteristics of Bushido, or the Way of the Warrior.”⁷ By understanding Horsemanship we can learn to appreciate and incorporate this conduct in different aspects of our daily life.

• The code of horsemanship reinforces “emptying ones cup” in order to learn and master a skill
• Understanding relationships and the importance of communication are critical including non-verbal cues and a heightened awareness
• Seeing the horse as an extension of ourselves and our universe rather than using the horse for monetary gain—it’s not fair to breed and sell a horse without paying close attention to overpopulation and mistreatment
• Understanding our relationship with animals and the natural world around us—many people shelter themselves from the outdoors and fear animal behavior
• Not being afraid to develop a new skill, try new things and explore uncharted territory—at any age or time in your life

1. Cleary, Thomas. Code of the Samurai. Boston, MA: Tuttle Publishing, 1999. Print.
2. Pony Boy, Gawani. Horse, Follow Closely. Laguna Hills, CA: Bow Tie Press, 1998. Print.
3. Ibid
4. Audrey Pavia and Janice Posnikoff, DVM, Horses for Dummies, 2^nd ed. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley Publishing Co. 2005
5. Richard Shrake, Western Horsemanship. Colorado Springs, CO: Western Horseman Inc., 1987. Print
6. Cleary, Thomas. Code of the Samurai. Boston, MA: Tuttle Publishing, 1999. Print.
7. Ibid

Bibliography

Cleary, Thomas. Code of the Samurai. Boston, MA: Tuttle Publishing, 1999. Print.

Pony Boy, Gawani. Horse, Follow Closely. Laguna Hills, CA: Bow Tie Press, 1998. Print.

Pavia, Audrey, and Janice Posnikoff, DVM. Horses for Dummies. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley Publishing Inc., 2005. Print.

Richard Shrake, Western Horsemanship. Colorado Springs, CO: Western Horseman Inc., 1987. Print

 Identifying with the Hero

Imagine yourself sitting in front of a big screen TV with surround sound booming on a couch so comfortable that it feels as if your body is sinking into a cloud. Buttered popcorn coats your fingertips with each swallow, and you grab another handful from the big bowl while absorbed in the action of your favorite movie. Who is your favorite character and what personality traits do you admire the most? If everything is harmonious with this character, can you relate? 

Have you watched the movie The Last Samurai? Tom Cruise plays the character Captain Nathan Algren. This character was someone that I could relate to because he was not perfect but his soul held the code of the warrior. I felt his pain while watching this heroic army captain face his inner fears and overcome alcoholism to find his true warrior spirit among the Samurai of Japan. He never gave up, never caved-in.

For most people their favorite character has a strong and weak side to their personality-they are human! We discover that this character accepts his weakness and faces challenge with the highest level of courage. We relate to his inner turmoil and feel his pain. From the comfort and security of your home, you see he is not perfect-his face covered with dirt and blood, he has torn clothes, and he looks deep inside himself to find the courage and faith to persevere.

Obstacles in Our Way

 

There are technological advancements today that challenge us to increase the speed of communication and getting a job done. We have become so dependent on technology that we demand results and have a reduced tolerance for slow people. Our daily lives are filled with stimulation and we seek fulfillment from computers, cell phones, and video games and spend less time reading books. Children are becoming lazy and impatient and lack respect for adults. We watch the successes of other professional athletes and performers rather than focus on achieving our own success. It seems safer to stay behind the four walls of our living room where there are no real threats. It seems safer to watch our heros rather than become a hero. Commercials bombard our minds with daily messages that show images of cool cars and exotic vacations. We hear and see repeatedly that we need to buy new things constantly in order to be fulfilled--the latest and greatest technology. Our employers expect so much of our time that we are confused about who we really are and what we represent. Our ethics are being challenged because we feel the pressure to compete against people rather than work toward camaraderie-a true brotherhood. 

Accepting Responsibility and Taking Action

 

The movie you were watching on your high defenition TV is now over and the credits scroll down the screen. You look at the bottom of the bowl that sits on your lap to see a few lone kernels stuck in a layer of hardened butter. You are full and your butt hurts from having spent so much time in front of the television. You feel empowered to fight the world but are not sure how or why. Why are you so draw to this character and not the person who snaps his fingers and everything falls into place?

Look deep inside yourself because you want to be this character. I desire to be this character. Instinctively we know we are this character. This character represents the Warrior and his way of life.

We can all be this character if we understand his passion and his path-the Warrior’s Way of Life. The samurai were true warriors and followed the Bushido Code. We desire to offer this blog to those who want to achieve goodwill and integrity and learn to live by the code. People who want to live a more ethical and fulfilling life. Life is a journey that will test our courage and perseverance. By developing compassion and a desire to do what is right--we can all enjoy the journey together.