Bushido.

Bushido:

The way of the warrior,
the ancient Samurai.
Living by a strict unwritten code
for well over three hundred years.

A life of honor and absolute
allegiance, even to the point of death.
Holding high principles of virtue,
this was their way of life.

The eight basic elements to which
they are as a brotherhood bound.
"Jin", the sympathetic understanding of people.
"Gi", the adoption of correct ethics throughout all of life.

"Chu", true devotion and allegiance to one's lord.
"Ko", ongoing caring and respecting of parents.
"Rei", proper respect for all others.
"Chi", seeking wisdom through knowledge.

"Shin", in search of and upholding truth,
and of course "Fei", the care of
the aged and those of humble status.
Eight guiding principles sworn to keep.

For these are the true tests
and marks of the warrior.
The Samurai who had earned
the respect of all around them.

Noblemen who were humble in their
ways, but fought to the very end
to protect their beliefs.
Sadly a noble tradition fading away.

Steven Beesley (c)