Code of the Samurai
- Sincerity
- Tell the truth. Say what you mean and mean what you say.
- Compassion
- Empathy. Imagine what someone else is feeling before you act. In ancient times this was interpreted as "Do not kill without need." Today we would say, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."
- Courage
- Not the absence of fear but rather the ability to do what needs to be done when you do feel fear.
- Duty & Loyalty
- The connections we make require respect and maintenance. If you give your loyalty to someone you must perform certain duties -- for example you make a friend, which is a declaration of loyalty. To keep that friend you must fulfill the duties of talking to them, doing things together and remembering things that are important to them. If you do not then this friendship will not last.
- Honor
- That force inside you that compels you to do what is right and avoid what is wrong -- especially when there is no-one watching you.
- Courtesy
- Be polite. Say "please," and "thank you." Imagine what the world would be like if everyone did this; it would be a better place.
- Justice & Morality
- Right and Wrong exist. Do what is right and avoid what is wrong -- this is Morality. There must be consequences for our actions, whether for the things we do that are bad or the positive actions we take in life. This is justice. Without Morality and Justice society breaks down.
School Rules
This section would be very large indeed if we wrote down every single rule. Fortunately, classes Alpha are taught in the traditional style, where rules as well as techniques, strategies and philosophies are passed down verbally from teacher to student.
To help new students get started, here are a few actions we will expect you to perform in the course of your training:
- Always rei (bow) when entering or leaving the dojo floor.
- If you are late to class, just wait at the door to the dojo floor and the instructor will invite you to join the class.
- Always pass things to someone with two hands -- and receive things from someone with two hands.
- Always respond to your instructor with a "Yes/no Sir!" or "Yes/no Ma'am!" If you are not sure which one to use, ask your instuctor.
- In class there is serious time and then there is silly time. It is up to you, regardless of your age, to know which is which, and act serious during serious time & silly during silly time (if there is any).
- During contact drills, be considerate of your dojo-mates. Do not hit too hard, do not miss badly on purpose and work with your partner to get the best result for both of you.