Warrior: The Way of Warriorhood

Back in the early eighties there was a statistic floating around that said out of 50,000 people who began karate training only one earned a black belt. Lured by misconceptions that resulted from movies like "The Karate KId," or "Enter The Dragon," the novelty quickly wore off as the realization set in that you can't, unless you're exceptional, become skilled enough to beat a black belt with an attitude in six months. Even those who "stuck it out" for that long still didn't get the gist of the art and drifted away in the face of the effort and focus required to become a true karateka. Even many who got a black belt did so while pursuing dubious goals. The physical aspects of karate are, to a point, easy to understand. Unfortunately, for many who become reasonably skilled that is the end all of their training. Winning trophies for kumite and kata at tournaments becomes the ultimate measure of success. So, just what is it that they are missing? Gichin Funakoshi, generally accepted as the "Father of Modern Karate," set, as the ultimate goal of the art, "the perfection of character." In his book, "Karate-do: My Way of Life," Master Funakoshi wrote that he only had two fights (outside of training) in his life and regretted them both. If you end up in a fight, he wrote, you've failed. In my dojo, and in Shotokan dojos around the world, you will (or should) find, conspicuously posted on one of the walls, the Dojo Kun, a set of five precepts he urged all his students to live by. Karate, for him, was indeed a way of life. They are: to seek perfection of character; to always be faithful; to endeavor to excel; to always respect others; to refrain from violent behavior. Karate, Master Funakoshi taught, is 10 percent physical and 90 percent mental. True students take that seriously and "endeavor" to be the best person they can be. As I said, the physical part is straight forward. You make a commitment and train faithfully. As for the other 90 percent, well, a great deal more is necessary. Introspection is, in its way, much more difficult than doing heian shodan a thousand times, and requires an even more rigorous dedication. The good news is reinventing the wheel is not necessary. Enter Bohdi Sanders and his "Warrior Wisdom" trilogy. Sensei Sanders has laboriously compiled a treasure trove of wisdom that crosses many centuries, and many cultures. His goal is to share this wisdom with us so that our journey, if we choose to take it, will be illuminated by his years of research and practice. As he says: "Bushido, the way of the warrior, is not meant to be self-serving, it is meant to be of service for a higher purpose." With that in mind, he takes us on an odyssey that includes visits with some of the most cogent thinkers of this, or any time. One of those, Bayard Taylor, is quoted in Volume 1, and sums up the value of Sensei Sanders's work: "Opportunity is rare and a wise man will never let it go by him." Passing these volumes by would, indeed, be an opportunity lost. They are not simply a compilation of quotes. Sensei shares his thoughts on each, but, in no way implies that we should fall into lock step behind him. He offers a starting point and, like all good teachers, expects that we'll find our own way. These books aren't sit down reads from cover to cover. They, like karate-do, are a life long endeavor. One page a day, for instance, read and considered, then on to the next. Read, think, repeat. Used properly, you might have to replace them every three or four years unless you're handy with Scotch Tape. Sensei has made us an offer we can refuse, but we do so at our own personal risk. Buy all three and wear them out, even if you have no intention of ever stepping into a dojo. We all should seek perfection of character and make the world a better place, one person at a time. (Also, watch for Bohdi's latest book, "Life Lessons: Politically Incorrect Wisdom," due out later this month.)

This writer has become one of my favorite martial art inspirational book authors the last six months. I have purchased the majority of his books and they are always a pleasure to read and ponder. This volume is the second in the warrior wisdom series. Each page has a meaningful quote followed by an explanation of what the author was attempting to convey to the reader. For example, "The more you sweat in training, the less you bleed in battle" is a U.S. Navy SEAL maxim. The author than points out the importance of being in top physical shape at all times if you truly desire to walk the path of the warrior.There are 168 of these great warrior quotes along with the commentary from the author. This is a book for anyone who lives the "way of the warrior" and for those who desire to know the important qualities required to enter the world as an ethical and righteous warrior. It is not a path for everyone, but for those who aspire to live the way of the warrior and the code of Bushido, this book will point the way.In conclusion, if you are in the military, or a police officer, or martial artist, or someone who desires to live a life of honor, courage and integrity, this is a must book to read and have in your personal library. You will find yourself referring to this book often for inspiration.Rating: 5 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Martial Art Myths)

Great read from Dr Bohdi I have most of his books and have ordered some to give to friends.

This is another great book to read. I was raised a Christian but cloud not understand my fellow co-works and people in general I had prayed to God and asked him for guidance and Bohdi Sanders material was my answer. I do MMA and Shaolin Do and I understand being a Christian is very important but these material helped me to appreciate that not all individuals would value what I believe in and appreciate what I have to offer as an individual. I want to thank Bohdi Sanders again.

Karate, is not just about physical stuff...if it was it would be outdated...even a small weakling armed with a gun can defeat the greatest masters....karate is relevant because it is a journey, not the destination...it is a way of life , and the key to happiness, health, and spirituality....this book contains many gems to feed you on your journey

This book is enlightening. Lots of common anecdotes from everyday life and therefore are relatable to everyday life. Mr. Sanders writes clear and to the point with meaningful descriptors that are concise. I enjoyed the book and I'll be looking forward to reading more of Mr. Sanders teachings.

Should be in every martial arts library.

Even though I'm not in the service nor am involved with martial arts, I do live by certain ethics, and this book is a great reference and inspiration! I think everyone should read this book.

I'm currently reading the warrior series by Bohdi Sanders and I am loving it! I highly recommend this book to anyone who wishes to pursue the life of excellence and warrior-hood.

This book continues on from the following adding more as to how to live your live as a warrior in this day and age. Brilliant for anyone studying martial arts for its true meaning

Great read and learning.

Very good!!!