Jun

8

A lesson that the worst error you can make in business is to get in over your head. Whenever Tom Wiswell was in a complicated game, he'd say, "I'm in over my head. I better simplify." Tom was undefeated world 3 move champ for 25 years before retiring. I also believe that if you start a business or trade with a flimsy foundation, it will lead to a debacle. I have had experience making both errors frequently.

What brings this to mind is a visit to the Peabody museum where they had a nice exhibit on the life of the Samurai. They tell the story of the 47 ronin very well. I have subsequently read a few books on the story and find that the thing that caused it all was the Shoguns edict to ban killing of any animals, especially dogs. When they died they were buried with honors and transported to their funeral on a Pallatine by loyal servants. This caused widespread famine, and unrest among the samurai. And it led to daimyo Asano getting so disgusted that the Kira insulted him one last time (one story has it the romance was the last straw), he struck Kira with a dagger leading to the whole tragedy.

It should be noted that the loyal retainer, Oishi, planned the revenge when he wouldn't be in over his his head. A good story, some good lessons and a good book by John Allyn.


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