A Zen master named Takuan, from the Edo period [1603–1868], explained the secret of the Japanese form of fencing known as kendo in this way: “When you face another swordsman, if you think there is an opportunity to strike your opponent’s shoulder, then your mind will be preoccupied by your opponent’s shoulder. If you think there is an opportunity to strike his arm, then your mind will be preoccupied by his arm. If you think you can win against him, then your mind will be preoccupied by winning. Do not allow your mind to wander to or settle upon any of these places. Even as you focus your
...more
