THE WAY OF LONE WAYFARER (Dokkodo by Musashi)

THE WAY OF WALKING ALONE (or The Way of Self-Reliance)

1. In the Way of all things, do not resist.
Do not turn your back on the various Ways of this world.

2. In Gratification, do not seek.

Do not scheme for physical pleasure.

3. Towards the myriad of things, have no inclinations.

Do not intend to rely on anything.

4. Self, contemplate shallow; Universe, contemplate deep.

Consider yourself lightly; consider the world deeply.

5. For all the lifetime, control desires.

Do not ever think in acquisitive terms.

6. In all deeds, be free of regret.

Do not regret things about your own personal life.

7. Towards all persons, good and bad, have no envy.

Do not envy another's good or evil.

8. The departing of anyone, lament not.

Do not lament parting on any road whatsoever.

9. Whether towards self or others, hold no resentment or excuse.

Do not complain or feel bitterly about yourself or others.

10. In passionate romance, do not indulge.

Have no heart for approaching the path of love.

11. Elegance and taste, seek not.

Do not have preferences.

12. Be indifferent to your place of abode.

Do not harbor hopes for your own personal home.

13. No indulgence for self.

Do not have a liking for delicious food for youself.

14. Collect no valuables.

Do not carry antiques handed down from generation to generation.

15. Trust in your abilities, be not superstitious.

Do not fast so that it affects you physically.

16. Weapons are of the highest importance, have no value on other matters.
While it's different with military equipment, do not be fond of material things.

17. In the Way, have no scorn for Death.

While on the Way, do not begrudge death.

18. In old age, keep no mansion or treasure

Do not be intent on possessing valuables or a fief in old age.

19. Honor the Gods, but do not rely on Them.

Respect the gods and Buddha, but do not depend on them.
20. Sacrifice self, but do not sacrifice honor.
Though you give up your life, do not give up your honor.

21. In the Way of the Warrior, never deviate.

Never depart from the Way of the Martial Arts.