Iron is full of impurities that weaken it: through forging, it becomes steel and is transformed into a razor-sharp sword. Human beings develop in the same fashion.

Your heart is full of fertile seeds, waiting to sprout.

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 weaken and defeat you.

When an opponent comes forward, move in and greet him; if he wants to pull back, send him on his way.

However keen you may be to begin your study, before you venture on to the mat and attempt any of the basic techniques it is necessary to know something of the principles that govern aikido, for unless you do understand a little about posture, movement, balance, gentleness and courtesy, you will not be a satisfactory pupil.

(Page 18).

To gain mastery you must unite the qualities of spirit, strength, technique and the ability to take the initiative.

(Page 31).