Morihei Ueshiba (1883–1969) was the founder of the Japanese martial art of Aikido which offers a nonviolent path to victory in the face of conflict. This path can be translated as "The Art of Peace." Morihei believed that harmony and compassion are desperately needed in a world of war and environmental destruction. The quotations in this poetic and profound book have been taken from his collected talks, poems, calligraphy, and from oral tradition. John Stevens, who has been studying the sayings of Morihei Ueshiba for 30 years, has translated and edited these selections. This collection (which also includes an audio CD read by Lloyd James) offers a treasure trove of insights into the human adventure!
We are all put on Earth to foster peace and to apply this art to all we encounter each day. No buildings, money, power, or status are needed to practice the Art of Peace. It is nonviolent, a medicine for a sick world, a bridge between science and spirit, a conduit to the reserve of universal energy, and a way to wisdom and love. The Art of Peace enables us to learn from the natural world:
• "Do not fail
To learn from
The pure voice of an
Ever-flowing mountain stream
Splashing over the rocks."
• "Every sturdy tree that towers over human beings owes its existence to a deeply rooted core."
• "Always keep your mind as bright and clear as the vast sky, the highest peak, and the deepest ocean, empty of all limiting thoughts."
• "In The Art of Peace you must be able to let yourself soar like a bird and sport like a whale."
Morihei says that there are no contests in the Art of Peace and to injure an opponent is to hurt yourself as well. For this warrior, failure is a key to success, giving us new knowledge. This master of Aikido warns students not to hurry or be impatient: it takes a minimum of 10 years to master the basics and advance to the first rung. He concludes:
"Rely on Peace
To activate your
Manifold powers;
Pacify your environment
And create a beautiful world."
