Of liberty there are two kinds: the false, as where man is free to do what he likes; the true, as where a man is free to do what he ought.
- Charles Kingley
Today, I would like to tell you a little bit about Samurai.
Long time ago, the Samurai's way of living is to protect their master. To be killed by the enemy in front of their master is the most honorable death for all Samurai. They are glad to give their life to their master. Their purpose is more important than their own lives. This is the Samurai spirit.
Nobody asked me to do this but I decided I would carry Japan on my shoulders. I want to help people understand why Japan is a great country and I believe the beauty of Japan and its culture will help make a better world. I do this through my work, and also through my way of living.
And this, is my dream. And this, is my purpose. I have been dedicating my life to this dream. And it has brought me here today. And my dream is now more important than my life. This way of thinking is a part of the Samurai spirit. I will continue my work until I die. I will never give up till the end. Because it is more important than my life.
I would like to tell all of you here, and everyone watching TEDxTokyo: Please do not stop dreaming. Please do not give up your dream. And please trust yourself.
The next time you hit a wall, the next time you are on your knees, and the next time you are about to give up - I would like you to stop for a moment and remember the Samurai spirit - and this spirit exists in all of you.
- Rome Kanda, The Samurai Spirit
