I actually read all of those passages rather recently.
The symbol somewhat resembles the one used by Escrimadors to represent all possible ways to attack.
You keep talking about the heart, compromising, etc. Having a heart of stone or of iron doesn't have to mean that it cannot move. If you apply force to a stone, does it not move? Does iron not vibrate upon impact?
These things don't mean that the given materials lose their mettle or quality. Only that they do not go completely unaffected. Not every compromise is of the heart.
The compromise of one child for an entire civilization isn't a compromise of the heart. It's a compromise of numbers. In this instance, a heart of stone would be able to look the child in the eyes and still give the word. Though, I suppose if you value death, the larger death toll might be desirable.
Little sidenote:
Quote:
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It must be remembered that an attack on the home or family of an enemy was common among the Warriors. Any vulnerability of the enemy could be taken advantage of. In addition, since the Samurai warrior was based in a clan of tradition and standing in warfare, destruction of his family would cut the roots of the Samurai and prevent revenge by future offspring of that family.
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"The Samurai: The Philosophy of Victory" Robert T. Samuel.
The ancient Bushi evidently had no problem with killing children when it served their purpose.
Power is such a subjective term.... To a warrior, power can be the ability to end a fight, or it can be to avoid a fight (Kenpo as opposed to Aikido, for example). Any number of things. But, since we're talking about the heart, I'm assuming that it's willpower, mostly, that we're talking about. Nothing can overcome a strong heart--where there's a will, there's a way--indominatable spirit. It's one's ability to take a severe hit and still keep going. One's ability to confront all that he fears most without so much as blinking. I agree, one can have no greater power than this.
What I'm not understanding, though, is this: We all die. Time, disease, a traffic accident, war, whatever. Why is it a great revelation when one realizes this?
Hmm, actually... I can see how the thought might be emboldening to someone who is about to face a lethal situation. Still. I wouldn't go into a battle thinking, "Well, I'm going to die someday, anyway." I would go in thinking, "I know what I'm fighting for and why, and it is worth my life--should it be necessary." Or at least I would
rather think that... o_O hehe n_n;; .
I always liked how General Patton put it: "Don't die for your country, make your enemy die for his!" Why should I die? I mean, if it happens, it happens. I'd rather it not, but hey. If it does happen, I will have taken at least a dozen of my enemies with me.
Your devotion is admirable, if frustrating XD . I think I am starting to at least start to see what you're thinking, though :P .