
In recognition of the responsibilities I hold to myself, my instructors, fellow students and seekers of truth and discipline the world round, I hereby freely and with due mental presence affirm and assert:
- That I shall respect and honor all life.
- That I shall employ discipline in the training and application of my art, drawing upon the wealth of service that its performance imparts in promoting goodwill and accord in my life and in the lives of those I touch.
- That I shall dedicate my training endeavor first to my own spiritual awareness and mental clarity, and to the enrichment of my physical strength and mindfulness of movement.
- That instead of thoughtless action, I will come to understand thoughtful inaction (wu-wei), recognizing that self-motivation, self-awareness and self-recognition are of paramount importance, and that these vital riches emerge from the core of thoughtful inaction.
- That I shall not use my art to cause undue harm or injury to another or others.
- That I shall act as a warrior only against ignorance and self-defeat.
- That I shall hold the principles of compassion, mercy, wisdom and kindness as the greatest of treasures.
- That I vow to honor the vast amount of power inherent in specified teachings I will be given, applying wisely their techniques, and knowing undeniably that their application must be measured appropriately.
- That I acknowledge that these teachings are sacrosanct because of their power and potential for corruption.
- That I shall act as a guardian for the wisdom and training entrusted to my care.
Attested to on this day, the ______ of __________________, of the year _______, through my seal and signature in witness hereof:
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(Student Signature/Rank)
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(Witness Signature/Rank)