Morihei Ueshiba was a martial artist and founder of the Japanese martial art of aikido. He is often referred to as “the founder” Kaiso (開祖) or Ōsensei (大先生/翁先生), “Great Teacher”. May his quotes inspire you to be like a warrior so that you may live your dreams.
1. “The purpose of training is to tighten up the slack, toughen the body, and polish the spirit.” Morihei Ueshiba
2. “Do not look upon this world with fear and loathing. Bravely face whatever is on offer.” Morihei Ueshiba
3. “Your heart is full of fertile seeds, waiting to sprout.” Morihei Ueshiba
4. “The warrior is always engaged in a life and death struggle for peace.” Morihei Ueshiba
5. “Failure is the key to success: each mistake teaches us something.” Morihei Ueshiba
6. “When you bow deeply to the universe, it bows back.” Morihei Ueshiba
7. “I want considerate people to listen to the voice of Aikido. It is not for correcting others; it is for correcting your own mind.” Morihei Ueshiba
8. “Loyalty and devotion lead to bravery. Bravery leads to the spirit of self-sacrifice. The spirit of self-sacrifice creates trust in the power of love.” Morihei Ueshiba
9. “I am the universe.” Morihei Ueshiba
10. “The way of the warrior has been misunderstood. It is not a means to kill and destroy others. Those who seek to compete and better one another are making a terrible mistake. To smash, injure or destroy is the worst thing a human being can do. The real way of the warrior is to prevent such slaughter- it is the art of peace, the power of love.” Morihei Ueshiba
11. “Those who are enlightened never stop forging themselves.” Morihei Ueshiba
12. “A true warrior is invincible because he or she contests with nothing.” Morihei Ueshiba
13. “The art of peace begins with you.” Morihei Ueshiba
14. “Economy is the basis of society. When the economy is stable, society develops. The ideal economy combines the spiritual and the material, and the best commodities to trade in are sincerity and love.” Morihei Ueshiba
15. “Those who are skilled in combat do not become angered, those who are skilled at winning do not become afraid. Thus the wise win before the fight, while the ignorant fight to win.” Morihei Ueshiba
16. “A good stance and posture reflect a proper state of mind.” Morihei Ueshiba
17. “Study the teachings of the pine tree, the bamboo, and the plum blossom. The pine is evergreen, firmly rooted, and venerable. The bamboo is strong, resilient, unbreakable. The plum blossom is hardy, fragrant, and elegant.” Morihei Ueshiba
18. “Nature is always speaking to us.” Morihei Ueshiba
19. “Life is growth. If we stop growing, technically and spiritually, we are as good as dead.” Morihei Ueshiba
20. “Your spirit is the true shield” Morihei Ueshiba
21. “A true warrior is always armed with three things: the radiant sword of pacification; the mirror of bravery, wisdom, and friendship; and the precious jewel of enlightenment.” Morihei Ueshiba
22. “Create each day anew.” Morihei Ueshiba
23. “Study how water flows into a valley stream, smoothly and freely between the rocks. Also, learn from holy books and wise people. Everything – even mountains, rivers, plants, and trees should be your teacher.” Morihei Ueshiba
24. “The art of peace is medicine.” Morihei Ueshiba
25. “Day after day train your heart out, refining your technique. That is the discipline of the warrior.” Morihei Ueshiba
26. “Foster and polish the warrior spirit while serving in the world; illuminate the path according to your inner light.” Morihei Ueshiba
27. “True victory does not come from defeating an enemy, true victory comes from giving love and changing an enemies heart.” Morihei Ueshiba
28. “One does not need buildings, money, power or status to practice the art of peace.” Morihei Ueshiba
29. “There are many paths leading to the top of Mount Fuji but there is only one summit – love.” Morihei Ueshiba
30. “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.” Morihei Ueshiba
31. “Iron is full of impurities that weaken it; through forging, it becomes steel and is transformed into a razor-sharp sword. Human beings develop in the same fashion.” Morihei Ueshiba
32. “True victory is victory over oneself.” Morihei Ueshiba
33. “Be grateful even for hardship, setbacks, and bad people. Dealing with such obstacles is an essential part of training in the art of peace.” Morihei Ueshiba
34. “Those who are possessed by nothing possess everything.” Morihei Ueshiba
35. “Cast off limiting thoughts and return to true emptiness. Stand in the midst of the great void. This is the secret of the way of the warrior.” Morihei Ueshiba
