Words from Warriors

In keeping with the theme of my May 19th post,I return to the warriors,those who possess wisdom,insight and courage.The following is from Japanese samurais and Chinese sages.Athletes can gain much from what they have to say. These are people who "walk the talk",personally,they help me to focus and be totally committed to the task at hand.I say this because, for me,and I'm quoting the title of the now legendary Lasse Viren video here,"Running Is My Life." That's my priority,that's where I want to do well.
"One should not torture himself over a single mistake.What is essential is one's presence of mind hereafter. When one makes a mistake,he should not be hesitant to correct it. Making a mistake and not correcting it,this is the real mistake."
Evaluate and re-evaluate,be introspective.I see the same athletes repeatedly getting injured while others can't understand why they are not seeing improvement in their performances.
"Do all things with patience."
The impatient athlete tends to be a self-defeating one.
"Be master of mind rather than mastered by mind."
For most of us that takes awareness of how we are and the desire to acquire mastery over ourselves.Again, being introspective is the key.
"We do not rise to the level of our expectations.We fall to the level of our training."
Great quote here,positive thinking and Jerry Lynch affirmations are only as good as the training you've done.
"Victory is reserved for those who are willing to pay its price."
How true,but for those of us who live for the run,it is a labor of love.