On the other hand, proper attitude

On the other hand, proper attitude and behaviour, in combination with simple etiquette, create a state of mental and physical calmness that gradually becomes a normal part of daily life. This is called heijoshin, or ordinary mind. An ordinary mind is one that is calm, well balanced, and disciplined at all times-even when confronted with unexpected events or unpleasant circumstances. The secret to achieving heijoshin is to treat ordinary moments as special; then special events will seem like everyday occurences. Once this happens we learn to avoid the pitfalls of hatred, vengeance, selfishness, and jealousy. We stop making excuses when our arrow fails to hit target, and we show no resement toward others whose shooting is better than our own. Instead, we look for what is missing ourselves and, once discovered, spare no amount of time and energy to correct the deficiency,

It is often said that in this modern age the searche for personal gratification has caused the human race to stray too far from traditional values. These days, it seem that courtesy and compassion have become marketable commodities; that people everywhere refuse to do anything for others unless they can expect some kind expect some kind of compensation in return. If this is so, then perhaps kyudo, with its emphasis on intropection and self-improvement, can prompt each of us to examine our own motives for doing good and encourge us to extend a little kindness toward others simply because it is a good and proper thing to do.

The beauty of kytudo
Kyudo must also be beautiful. But since the concept of beauty varies between cultures it is difficult to define. All will agree, however, that it is a pleasent quality taht enhances life and stimulates the spirit. The question is, how is beauty expressed in kyudo ? perhaps the first thing that strikes most people is the exquisite grace and artistry of the japanese bow, coupled with the quite elegance of the traditional attire worn by the archer. Indeed, it would be difficult to imagine a more aesthetically pleasing combination. But the real beauty of kyudo lies elsewhere.
First of all, truth and goodness are themselves beautiful. In their absence kyudo is ignoble and vulgar. There is nothing uglier than a person who becomes so concerned with hitting the target or showing off his skill that he loses sight of the truth. Even worse is someone who is corrupt and heartless, because these qualities destroy all that is beautiful in kyudo.
The kyudo ceremony, or more precisely the etiquette that lies at the heart of it, is also considered beautiful. Etiquette, which basically just common courtsey and respect shown to others, gives the ceremony purpose. Without etuquette, the ceremony is stuffy and pretentious; the form, hollow and meaningless. In the kyudo ceremony, etiquette and serene, rhythmical movement combine to create a perfect balance of form and spirit. This, in turn, gives birth to harmony. Harmony is particularly important because kyudo without the beauty of harmony is not reallt kyudo at all.