“Technique over strength, spirit over technique, mindfulness over spirit and compassion over mindfulness.” Rev. Kensho Furuya
Compassion is one of the highest virtues of a warrior. A samurai was supposed to develop the ability to cut down their opponent in one stroke. This showed their prowess but it was also thought to be the most merciful and compassionate thing one could do given the unfortunate circumstances of war. As we develop ourselves physically in training, we come to realize mentally, emotionally and spiritually that the only true opponent is ourselves. Because the person facing us is not our true adversary, we come to see them as they are - a human being who is in a predicament and suffers just like us. When we become mindful of ourselves and our circumstance then we can see our opponent not as a monster necessitating hate, but as being human that we feel pity for that needs compassion. Compassion is defined as, “Having sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others.” Compassion is hard to manifest and give and it is easier to just hate. A weak warrior uses hatred and anger as motivation to hurt someone. The strongest warriors always has mercy and compassion in their hearts despite the fact that their job is to kill and that is why they do so in the quickest and most merciful way with just one cut. A warrior understands that there are no enemies, only people who are suffering and doing the best that they can. With training we realize that we are also suffering and only doing the best that we can as well. When we are suffering, we want kindness, compassion and forgiveness. To give it is to get and so we should also be ready to give it in turn. Giving mercy and compassion is not weakness, but rather the ultimate prowess of a warrior.
Today’s goal: Try and give someone kindness, compassion or forgiveness even if they don’t deserve it and even if they are attacking you.