Ueshiba Morihei - Comprehending the Universe

What is the most popular reason why people engage in martial arts? Obviously, to become stronger and more fearless, to develop the skills to protect yourself and your closest people in the time of danger and simply to become more attractive. Nevertheless, despite MA's significant advantages, there is one negative aspect: almost all of the styles are connected with a certain degree of inevitable violence and physical harm that you may inflict on your opponent. Completely excluding aggression and directing your emotions onto a constructive course is not an easy task even for a well prepared fighter. Is there a solution?
Take a look at the Art of Peace created by the great master Ueshiba Morihei and you will realize that to become a truly strong and courageous warrior one absolutely doesn't have to accumulate aggression inside. Quite the contrary, actually: only Kindness and the Love for all beings make a person a flawless warrior, elevating his soul and bringing his nature into harmony with the energy of the Universe. Channeling the supreme Source, a Warrior gains spiritual powers and develops the sixth sense that helps percept the undercurrents of any situation much better. On the painting Comprehending the Universe, the founder of Aikido Ueshiba Morihei holds a triple tomoe in his hands, a symbol of cosmic energies, and this living fire engulfs him like a mantle that contains ancient knowledge. The painting is suitable for dojo and sports halls, reminding the viewer that there are not only the psysical and philosophical sides to any martial art, but also the one that deals with thin energies. And only having comprehended the latter, we start understanding the first two much better.

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Always keep your mind as bright and clear as the vast sky, the great ocean, and the highest peak, empty of all thoughts. Always keep your body filled with light and heat. Fill yourself with the power of wisdom and enlightenment.

Each and every master, regardless of the era or the place, heard the call and attained harmony with heaven and earth. There are many paths leading to the top of Mount Fuji, but there is only one summit - love.

All life is a manifestation of the spirit, the manifestation of love.

Morihei Ueshiba