The Tao of Dementia

Weapons are the tools of violence;

all decent men detest them.
Weapons are the tools of fear;

a decent man will avoid them

except in the direst necessity

and, if compelled,

will use them

only with the utmost restraint.

Peace is his highest value.

If the peace has been shattered,

how can he be content?

His enemies are not demons,

but human beings like himself.

He doesn't wish them personal harm.

Nor does he rejoice in victory.

How could he rejoice in victory

and delight in the slaughter of men?
He enters a battle gravely,

with sorrow

and with great compassion,

as if he were attending a funeral.