- 1. Accept everything just the way it is.
- 2. Do not seek pleasure for its own sake.
- 3. Do not, under any circumstances, depend on a partial feeling.
- 4. Think lightly of yourself and deeply of the world.
- 5. Be detached from desire your whole life long.
- 6. Do not regret what you have done.
- 7. Never be jealous.
- 8. Never let yourself be saddened by a separation.
- 9. Resentment and complaint are appropriate neither for oneself or others.
- 10. Do not let yourself be guided by the feeling of lust or love.
- 11. In all things have no preferences.
- 12. Be indifferent to where you live.
- 13. Do not pursue the taste of good food.
- 14. Do not hold on to possessions you no longer need.
- 15. Do not act following customary beliefs.
- 16. Do not collect weapons or practice with weapons beyond what is useful.
- 17. Do not fear death.
- 18. Do not seek to possess either goods or fiefs for your old age.
- 19. Respect Buddha and the gods without counting on their help.
- 20. You may abandon your own body but you must preserve your honor.
- 21. Never stray from the Way.
- Reading these words every couple of days has completely changed the way I live. It is negotiably the best body of work by Miyamoto Musashi, and I highly implore you to open your mind to these ageless teachings.