A Knight, or Ritter in German, or Samurai in Japan, were people of strong character who served to help others.  They were warriors who tried to use their strength of body and of character to help themselves, those who depended upon them, their bosses, and those who were unable to defend themselves.  Learn more about knights by reading this article.

What are the Rules of a Knight?  There are many and varied rules, but this list summaries the basics:

• Be honest and truthful.
• Help those in need.
• Be brave.
• Do not mind discomfort.
• Be loyal and obedient to those you follow.
• Never brag or boast.

What does one need to be a knight?  Exercise to become strong and tough.  Learn to use the weapons needed.  Be ready to seek out adventures.  Be brave, follow the examples of knights who are worthy, and set an example for the younger knights.

Knights Weapons included defensive shields and armor, long range weapons, thrusting and edged weapons for defense and offense.  

Horses:  Knights basically had three horses, a war horse who was trained to not be frightened during warfare, and to bite and kick when in battle; a riding horse for daily travel; and a pack horse for carrying his equipment when traveling.

Heraldry: While in full armor the only way to tell who was who was through unique identifying colors, pictures, or symbols.  Each knights coat of arms has a particular design which was usually passed down through the family.  The science of describing these various arms is called heraldry.  It is the signature emblem of the knight.

Practice: Learning to be a knight takes practice.  Knights most often progressed through the ranks to become a knight by learning life's lessons in various stages.  As a Page, a young boy learned basic discipline.  As a Squire, a young man learned the basic art of being a knight.  As a Knight, a man continues to learn to develop.  Practice was a daily task to continue this development.

Learning: When learning to be a knight there is no better way than to read the stories of real knights from history and learn from their example.  King Richard the Lionheart, his noble opponent Saladin, the amazing career fo Sir William Marshal, and the tales of all the storybook knights, are full of details that will help you to become a better knight.  Take the BEST from what you learn and work to make yourself like the best that you learn about.

Remember:  Never lie and always remain faithful to your word when you have given it.  Respect all, even those who are weaker than you, and help to defend those in need.  Be generous, unselfish and open hearted.  Love the country in which you were born and always do your duty.  Never run away from an enemy's advance in fear.  Be the champion of right and good against injustice and evil.

Keep your armor in good repair and keep your weapons in ready use.  Take good care of your horses.  Ignore hardship and follow your heart's desire to joy and happiness.