"Let us all gain happiness by expelling grief, sorrow, and distress from our hearts. Happiness is the supreme satisfaction that this life offers. Dispel dissatisfaction and sorrow, rethink the source to find happiness." -Takamatsu Sensei The previous Grandmaster of Ninjutsu, Takamatsu Sensei, found a balance in the art and in life. He believed that the ninja follows the laws of nature and commits no violence. Understanding nature and understanding Ninjutsu come hand-in-hand as one progresses in the mastery of the art. Soke Masaaki Hatsumi summarized Takamatsu Sensei's thoughts in his book The Essence of Ninjutsu:
- Develop an enduring Zen spirit and understand its implications
- Become aware of sincerity and faith
- Self-reflection and self-realization, then thankfulness and benevolence, are to be pursued
