Another Bible for ANY Martial Artist or follower of "The Way"
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Although less than half as thick as the hardcover version translated by John Teramoto, Mr Cruz's book contains a whole lot more. Starting with a simpler to read (IMHO) version of Master Funakoshi's "Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate", Mr Cruz then delves into the Philosophy of Karate-do; The Three Spiritual Philosophies (Mind Like the Moon/Still Water etc); The Philosophy of Training in Karate-do (another 17 precepts on karate-do) Mushin, Zanshin & Kime etc; The Go Jo - the five main precepts for Samurai Warriors and then finishes with a handful of short essays; one on the Grand Masters Philosophies (viz: Funakoshi).
An excellent book, I reiterate, better than the hardback version I mentioned above as you get more for your money and above all, it's easier to read and nicely laid out.
Every Shotokan Karate-ka (in fact all martial artists) ought to have one of these and read it often to learn the proper meaning of what karate/martial arts/budo is all about. It's not just all kicking, punching, grunting and "stuff". Some of the 20 "guiding principles" or "precepts" in the book have actually been acquired from earlier great martial art masters (e.g. Sokon Matsumura). That's not to say that Funakoshi copied them, even if he did, it was a wise decision to have them listed all in one place. A short book that can easily be devoured in a day, it's full of wisdom, no matter what martial art you study. Best read a few time to digest the intention behind each precept. Even if you're not into martial arts, there are many great principles here that when applied to everyday living will enhance your life and help you to be more successful and a happier person, regardless of your religion. Each short one sentence precept is then interpreted over the next page or two in simple but meaningful way.
Keep it beside your bedside to meditate from and absorb, as anyone following "The Way" ought to.
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