The sword represents to me an opportunity to be a part of something sacred. It allows me to focus and achieve peace, two things that are often elusive to me. My lifestyle and chosen profession constantly challenge me. I expect a lot from myself. Sometimes I live up to those expectations and sometimes I do not. That is why it is so important to have the sword in my life. It allows me to focus on the positive and leave my stress behind, if only for a moment. But, the best part by far is that the love of my life has agreed to be my kaiden.