I come to you with only karate, empty hands.
I have no weapons, but should I be forced
       to defend myself, my honor, or my principals,
Should it be a matter of life or death, of right or wrong,
       Then here are my weapons,
                        My empty hands.

 

The Codes of Isshin-Ryu

1. A person's heart is the same as heaven and earth.
2. The blood circulating is similar to the moon and sun.
3. The manner of drinking and spitting is either hard or soft.
4. A person's unbalance is the same as a weight.
5. The body should be able to change direction at any time.
6. The time to strike is when the opportunity presents itself.
7. The eye must see four sides.
8. The ear must listen in eight directions.