The Way of the Samurai

samurai, originally uploaded by mincaye.

On Friday night, I watched The Last Samurai on Astro. This is one of those unforgettable silver screen movies, and I remember when I first watched it with my Standard 6 classmates, early 2003.

Everything about it bears a certain majesty and awe, from the stunning cinematography and dazzling battle sequences, to the thought-provoking philosophy and soaring score by Hans Zimmer.

This time around, two things Tom Cruise said in the movie resonated with much of what I have learned this year. (It's not quite verbatim, but the gist of the thoughts is there):

"The word samurai means servant."

"From the time when they [the people in the samurai village] get up, until the day is done, they commit themselves to the perfection of whatever they pursue."


Servanthood, and perfection. Themes that arose throughout this year, were consolidated at NSCF, and continue to challenge me even as 2006 dawns.

These are messages of the Kingdom:

"The greatest among you will be your servant." (Matt 23:11)

"Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly father is perfect." (Matt 5:48)

It was John Wesley who said, "What is Christian perfection? Loving God with all our heart, mind, soul and strength."

In other words, loving God with our nous.


Perhaps this is where the 'conspiracy' comes in. Observe the link between the following words:

servant
discipline
perfection
samurai
love
heart
mind
soul
strength
nous
spirituality
kingdom

(Hint: keep an eye on the TMsquared blog. The third adventure is coming soon!)