Necessary reading for any aikidoist. ( )

from cover

The inspirational teachings in this collectin 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; and 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.

Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969) is renowned as one of the greatest martial artists of all time. After years as a master of many martial arts, a soldier, and a spiritual seeker, he developed Aikido as a way to cultivate peace and harmony in the world.

Contents

Preface
Part One: Morihei Ueshiba, Prophet of the Art of Peace
Part Two: The Art of War versus the Art of Peace
Part Three: The Art of Peace

The Art of Peace is quite short and I was able to breeze through it in less than an hour of focused reading. That isn't to say that it is bad or anything, quite the contrary. The book contains collected sayings and wisdom from Morihei Ueshiba, the man who invented Aikido. Also contained within the book are samples of the author's calligraphy, and it looks really cool.

Other than that there isn't really much to say on this one. ( )

The Art of Peace is a collection Ueshiba's teachings of overcoming aggression in the face of conflict to achieve victory, which can also be applied to all other challenges of life.

I read this book cover to cover the first time around, essentially in one sitting. The second time, I took my time. I read one or even a few passages and allowed myself to sit and meditate on it, pray on it, whatever verb you wish to attach to it.
Personally I believe that no matter what religious affiliation you have, you can gain some spiritual inspiration from this book if you allow yourself to go in with an open mind and heart. ( )

Morihei Ueshiba was ahead of his time in preparing for a crowded, difficult world and his philosophy is extremely refined, non-dogmatic zen buddhism. Unfortunately his legacy has been held to an almost radical traditionalism regarding his teachings through the practice of the art of Aikido. Fortunately, his words transcend the quasi-militarism of the modern "martial arts" describing a state of as near perfection for an individual's potential being as possible.

One of the few books that deserves the energy required to preserve it in physical form and to be a part of one's belongings. ( )