33rd Grandmaster Takamatsu

A picture I had not seen before of the 33rd Grandmaster Toshitsugu Takamatsu.
Through him, the collection of the 9 Ryu’s (schools) is accomplished. He lived through a period of time were from our perspective the ancient past and modern era connect. Takamatsu passed the teachings on to Hatsumi Sensei who became the first to open the teaching of ninjutsu up to the western world. There are many fascinating stories about Takamatsu life that we will leave for another time.

Below one of his quotes
“The way to experience ultimate happiness is to let go of all worries and regrets, and to know that being happy is the most satisfying of life’s feelings. Reflect back on all the progress in your life and allow the positive, creative and joyous thoughts to outshine and overwhelm any sorrow or grief that may linger in the recesses of your mind. Knowing that disease and disaster are natural parts of life is the key to overcoming adversity with a calm and happy spirit. Happiness is waiting there in front of you. Only you can decide whether or not you choose to experience it. Take this to heart.
Toshitsugu Takamatsu”