Tesshu’s Doka

If your mind
is not projected
into your hands
even 10,000 techniques
will be useless.

Against an opponent’s sword
assume no stance,
and keep your mind unmoved;
that is the place
of victory.

Swordsmanship:
I am not struck
nor is my opponent hit;
unobstructed I move in
and attain the ultimate.

Where swords meet
throw off illusion;
abandon yourself
and you will tread
on the living path.

The form which arises
from no-mind
stands in the center of things;
blows come but do not connect –
what a marvel!

Spirit, swift;
mind, calm;
body, light;
eyes, clear;
technique, decisive!

Self-centered thoughts
are reflected as
clearly as in a mirror;
let others see them,
and you will be making a fool of yourself.

Piled up high,
the snowman (just like everyone else),
after a few days,
goes somewhere
without a trace.

The Sword of No-Sword: The Life of Master Swordsman Tesshu, John Stevens. (Shambhala Books)