The Taste of Bonzo's Sword
Matishuri Yagu was the son of a famous swordsman. His father, believing that his son's study of the craft work was insufficient to ever reach mastery, disowned him.
So Matajuro went to Mount Fuji and there found the renowned swordsman Bonzo. But Bonzo confirmed the father's judgment. "You wish to study swordsmanship under me?" asked Bonzo. "You can't fulfill the requirements."
"But if I work hard, how many years will it take me to become a master?" persisted the youth.
"The rest of your life," replied Bonzo.
"I can't wait that long," explained Matishuri. "I am willing to endure any hardship, if only you will teach me. If I become your devoted servant, how long might it be?"
"Oh, maybe 10 years," Bonzo relented.
"My father is getting old and soon I must depart to care for him" continued Matishuri. "If I work far more intensely, how long would it take me?"
"Maybe 30 years," said Bonzo.
"30? Why is that?" asked Matishuri. "First you say 10 and now 30 years. I will endure anything to master this art in the least time!"
"Well," said Bonzo, "in that case you will have to remain with me for 70 years. A man in such a rush as you are to get results seldom learns quickly."
"Very well," declared the youth, understanding at last that it was his impatience, "I agree."
Matishuri was told never to speak of swordsmanship and never to touch a sword. He cooked, washed dishes, cleaned the yard, tended the garden, all without a mention of a sword.
3 years passed. Still Matishuri journeyed on. Thinking of his future, he was melancholy . He had not even begun to learn the art to which he had devoted his life.
But one day Banzo crept up behind him and gave him a terrific blow with a wooden sword!
The following day, when Matishuri was cooking rice, Banzo again sprang upon him unexpectedly.
After that, day and night, Matishuri had to defend himself from unexpected thrusts. Not a moment passed in any day that he did not have to think of the taste of Banzo's sword.
He learned so rapidly he brought smiles to the face of his master. Matishuri became the greatest swordsman in the land.
dcj commentary: Rushing leads to carelessness, and care is required for mastery.