Status Updates From The Spirit of the Sword: Ia...

"It is not completely pointless to try and explain concepts such as these to novices through theory, but true understanding will only come naturally through gradual mastery and training by unquestioningly following the example set before you. Simply put, life itself is training to be done unto death." ~ Nakamura Taisaburo

"Whatever one does, the mental approach and attitude you take on a daily basis is vital." ~ Nakamura Taisaburo

"The katana is a malevolent entity in its own right, one that will cut you, and so you must take care when handling it. When practicing tameshigiri you must focus your mind and spirit; banish all distracting thoughts; and not let your guard down, making safety the utmost priority in your training." ~ Nakamura Taisaburo (the warning he would give to trainees before tameshigiri instruction)

"When facing down an enemy one should rely not on his blade but should strike with the heart." ~ Nakamura Taisaburo (explaining Yamaoka Tesshu's Muto-ryu)

"It is said that the bushi strives neither to cut nor to be cut by anyone." ~ Nakamura Taisaburo