The inspirational teachings in this collection show that the real way of
the warrior is based on compassion, wisdom, fearlessness, and love of
nature. The teachings are drawn from the talks and writings of Morihei
Ueshiba, founder of the popular Japanese martial art of Aikido, a
mind-body discipline he called the "Art of Peace," which offers a
nonviolent way to victory in the face of conflict. Ueshiba believed that
Aikido principles could be applied to all the challenges we face in
life - in personal relationships, as we interact with society, and at
work and in business.
This edition is a much-expanded version of the original miniature
edition that appeared in the Shambhala Pocket Classics series. It
features a wealth of new material, including a biography of Ueshiba; an
essay by John Stevens that presents Ueshiba's views on "The Art of War
versus the Art of Peace"; newly translated doka, didactic "Poems of the
Way"; and Ueshiba's own calligraphies.