From “Hagakure” by Yamamoto Tsunetomo - Translated by William Scott Wilson
A warrior should be careful in all things and should dislike to be the least bit worsted. Above all, if he is not careful in his choice of words he may say things like, “I’m a coward,” or “At that time I’d probably run,” or “How frightening,” or “How painful.” These are words that should not be said even in jest, on a whim, or when talking in one’s sleep. If a person with understanding hears such things, he will see to the bottom of the speaker’s heart. This is something that should be carefully thought about beforehand.
