The bitter winds in February were sometimes called the First East Winds, but the longing for spring somehow made them seem more piercing.

Not only must a warrior be strong with his bow, but he must have a heart full of pity for all living creatures.

Great character is forged through hardships.

Fighting isn't all there is to the Art of War. The men who think that way, and are satisfied to have food to eat and a place to sleep, are mere vagabonds. A serious student is much more concerned with training his mind and disciplining his spirit than with developing martial skills.

See, see how the sun has moved onward while we talked. Nothing can stop it in its course. Prayers cannot halt the revolving of nature. It is the same with human life. Victory and defeat are one in the vast stream of life. Victory is the beginning of defeat, and who can rest safely in victory? Impermanence is the nature of all things of this world. Even you will find your ill fortunes too will change. It is easy to understand the impatience of the old, whose days are numbered, but why should you young ones fret when the future is yours?

It's no good to want to win still more when you have already won.

The line between life and death is not thicker than an eyelid.