Negligence is an extreme thing.
The Way of the Samurai is found in death.
When it comes to either/or, there is only the quick choice of death.
It is not particularly difficult.
Be determined and advance.
To say that dying without reaching one’s aim is to die a dog’s death is the frivolous way of sophisticates.
When pressed with the choice of life or death, it is not necessary to gain one’s aim.
We all want to live.
And in large part we make our logic according to what we like.
But not having attained our aim and continuing to live is cowardice.
This is a thin dangerous line.
To die without gaming one’s aim is a dog’s death and fanaticism.
But there is no shame in this.
This is the substance of the Way of the Samurai.
If by setting one’s heart right every morning and evening, one is able to live as though his body were already dead, he pains freedom in The Way.
His whole life will be without blame, and he will succeed in his calling.
A man is a good retainer to the extent that he earnestly places importance in his master.
This is the highest sort of retainer.
If one is born into a prominent family that goes back for generations, it is sufficient to deeply consider the matter of obligation to one’s ancestors, to lay down one’s body and mind, and to earnestly esteem one’s master.
It is further good fortune if, more than this, one has wisdom and talent and can use them appropriately.
But even a person who is good for nothing and exceedingly clumsy will be a reliable retainer if only he has the determination to think earnestly of his master.
Having only wisdom and talent is the lowest tier of usefulness.
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