sojobow

I've read half the responses posted so far (in this thread) and I admit that your answers are really basic and come very close to true rationality. The basic point you make regarding not wasting ones time with Sword Arts and sticking to and training in a fighting art is the efficient path. I do, somewhat, disagree.

My own disagreement is based on the question I've been trying to answer myself and anyone in a martial arts should think on: What is the purpose of "The (A) Book of Five Rings"? How important is it to "know the ways of others" or "know the ways ('professions') of others?"

If you believe that the object of life, in general, is to "Win", then you have no problem investing time and energy in just about every avenue that would assist you "overcomming Man."

True, most of the Sword Arts associated with Kendo do seem in the area of a Hobby rather than a method of warfare, however, think on the point that an enemy TODAY, invades your home and draws a Sword? My first thought might be: better to have knowledge of his offense as you must now overcome him - or flee.

Truth is, regardless of Man's weapons proposed to you, you must still fight the Man and not his weapons.

Same thought would apply to someone testing for a highter wage: you must overcome the person that will make the decision. You might want to KNOW him and his Ways.