a Fighters Mind

“If your enemy is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him. If your opponent is temperamental, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant. If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them. If sovereign and subject are in accord, put division between them. Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.”

The last few games I’ve noticed that Ali seemed to be very tired. At first I was worried that something might be wrong, but then I realised that

NOBLE STUDENTS Noble students who are worthy of receiving the teachings have six characteristics: They are of good character, have self-respect, and are modest. They practice according to their teachers’ instructions and are rich in devotion. They pursue their spiritual practice with great fortitude, without regard for their bodies or lives. They are loving toward their companions, their minds softened by compassion. They do not become discouraged or weary, but exercise forbearance while working to bring benefit and happiness. Calm in body, speech, and mind, they maintain their samaya and vows. Such people are fortunate recipients of the nectar of the dharma.

Fear is your best friend or your worst enemy. It’s like fire. If you can control it, it can cook for you; it can heat your house. If you can’t control it, it will burn everything around you and destroy you.

I am blooming from the wound where I once bled.

Focus is a matter of deciding what things you’re not going to do.

To be a spiritual warrior, one must have a broken heart; without a broken heart and the sense of tenderness and vulnerability, your warriorship is untrustworthy.

What prompts us to action is desire; and desire has three forms—appetite, passion, wish.