Morihei Ueshiba

“The penetrating brilliance of swordsWielded by followers of the WayStrikes at the evil enemyLurking deep withinTheir own souls and bodies.”

“In the art of peace, a single cut of the sword summons up the wondrous powers of the universe. That one sword links the past, present, and future; it absorbs the universe. Time and space disappear. All of creation, from the distant past to the present moment, lives in the sword. All human existence flourishes right here in the sword you hold in your hands. You are now prepared for anything that may arise.”

“The Aikido I practice has room for each of the world's eight million gods and I cooperate with each of them. The Great Spirit of Aiki enjoins all that is Divine and enlightened in every land. Unite yourself to the Divine, and you will be able to perceive gods wherever you are.”

“Fill yourself with Ki, invite the attack.”

“In Aikido we never attack. An attack is proof that one is out of control. Never run away from any kind of challenge, but do not try to suppress or control an opponent unnaturally. Let attackers come any way they like and then blend with them. Never chase after opponents. Redirect each attack and get firmly behind it.”

“may you be happy, may you be wellmay you be peaceful and at easemay you be filled with loving kindnessAnd compassion for all beingslk”

“As soon as you concern yourself with the "good" and "bad" of your fellows, you create an opening in your heart for maliciousness to enter. Testing, competing with, and criticizing others weakens and defeats you.”

“Heaven is right where you are standing, and that is the place to train.”

“The divine is not something high above us. It is in heaven, it is in earth, it is inside us”