Crazy Sweet Grass

Book excerpt: Bowing, I accept the sword, turn to the bully, and silently wait. Today I will die. It will be a death in a battle for pride and acceptance. The challengers are brave and willing, but undisciplined and chaotic. My katana meets their willingness to charge forward and attack their death. My friend Masa knew the secrets of the shrine and why it was built on the mountain. We step into the round room, the small light increasing as it bounces from the smooth walls. The Samurai vowed loyalty to the Shogun. The Shaolin monks vow faithfulness to the discipline at the heart of Gung Fu. They never stray from the training. The Shaolin never fail to stand and answer when called. True Gung Fu warriors can surpass time and place. The Shaolin are wizards. I never stray from the training.