One should be wary of talking on end about such subjects as learning, morality or folklore in front of elders or people of rank. It is disagreeable to listen to.

Everyone lets the present moment slip by, then looks for it as though he thought it were somewhere else.

Sincerity does not only complete the self; it is the means by which all things are completed. As the self is completed, there is human-heartedness; as things are completed, there is wisdom. This is the virtue of one’s character, and the Way of joining the internal and external. Thus, when we use this, everything is correct.

Light matters should be dealt with seriously. Serious matters should be dealt with lightly.

One should make his decisions within the space of seven breaths.

Even if one's head were to be suddenly cut off, he should be able to do one more action with certainty.

An affected laugh shows lack of self-respect in a man and lewdness in a woman. It is carelessness to go about with one's hands inside the slits in the sides of his hakama.