the code of the samurai

"all warriors were expected to adhere to the ethical code, bushido, or the "way of the warrior." Bushido- primarily an informal system of values subject to individual interpretation rather than an explicit set of written rules- advised warriors to live honorably by being mindful of the nearness of death. A warrior was advised to judge his actions in the present moment by looking backward from the moment of his own death - as if he were already dead. An honorable death was highly valued.

the samurai prized virtues such as honesty, courage, benevolence, respect, self-sacrifice, self-control, compliance with duty, and loyalty. These qualities, which contribute to military discipline and efficiency, have always been valued in fighting men. Over time the warriors refined their code to more explicitly encompass their leadership roles in society and their civil responsibilities. In this context, bushido was thought to bring balance and stability to social organization. For the individual, martial prowess was not to take the form of unbridled aggression, and civil deference was not to give way to weakness."


now THAT, is keeping it real.

so samurai it.