A young warrior visited a wizard who was rumored to possess the "Sword of Invincibility." The warrior begged the wizard to
reveal the secret of the sword, and the wizard agreed, but only under the following conditions: "You must lead a chaste and
frugal life, meditate for several hours each day, recite the special chants I give you, and train in the techniques I show you. Do
this for twenty years, and I will reveal the secret of the sword." The intent warrior faithfully fulfilled his pledge and returned
twenty years later. As promised, the wizard produced the magic sword. The warrior took it in his hands, held it a few
minutes, and then gave it back--he no longer needed to rely on such a weapon.
--Copied from The Secrets of Aikido, by John Stevens (an excellent
book that I recommend you read)
Another Tale
A young boy traveled across Japan to the school of a famous martial artist. When he arrived at the dojo he was given an audience by the sensei.
"What do you wish from me?" the master asked.
"I wish to be your student and become the finest kareteka in the land," the boy replied. "How long must I study?"
"Ten years at least," the master answered.
"Ten years is a long time," said the boy. "What if I studied twice as hard as all your other students?"
"Twenty years," replied the master.
"Twenty years! What if I practice day and night with all my efforts?"
"Thirty years," was the master's reply.
"How is it that each time I say I will work harder, you tell me that it will take longer?" the boy asked.
"The answer is clear. When one eye is fixed upon your destination, there is only one eye left with which to find the Way."