Alexander Bennett also raises some essential points in his book on the history of Kendo which merit consideration by individuals training in Aikido.
- The purposes are ideals, and one should never presume to embody those virtues fully. Constant striving is required.
- In Kendo there is a struggle between sport and the martial path. While we do not have tournaments in Aikido, there is still the question of ego in terms of technical skill or rank.
- In no Budo is there a guarantee that morality and high rank go together.
- And we may ask if foreigners can ever truly embody the essence of Japanese Budo. While those not brought up in Japanese culture cannot be fully Japanese, anyone can embrace the broadly humanitarian vision of O-Sensei.
