Monday, 20 December 2010
Simply Be
The philosophy of Lao Tsu is simple: Accept what is in front of you without wanting the situation to be other than it is, Study the natural order of things and work with it rather than against it, for to try to change what is ..... only sets up resistance. Nature provides everything without requiring payment or thanks and also provides for all without discrimination — therefore let us present the same face to everyone and treat all men as equals, however they may behave. If we watch carefully, we will see that work proceeds more quickly and easily if we stop "trying," if we stop putting in so much extra effort, if we stop looking for results. In the clarity of a still and open mind, truth will be reflected. We will come to appreciate the original meaning of the word "understand," which means to stand under" We serve whatever or whoever stands before us, without any thought for ourselves. Te—which may be translated as “virtue” or "strength"—lies always In Tao, or "natural law." In other words: Simply be.
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2 comments:
The principle of Detachment. Yeah, I try. And sometimes I succeed.More often when I'm not trying, it's got to be said :)
But 'detachment' has an unfortunate ring to it, today - it seems to presage bloodlessness and apathy, although we know that's not what the master meant..
Love,
T in J
I also only get it right when i'm not trying ;-)
It's not detachment, per se. What gets me here is the "stand under" bit. It's putting yourself second to what is before you.
Humanity has gotten where it has by brute force, and that principle underlies most of our thinking. MAKE IT FIT.
Now as simply as we can accept the goal (zen-mindedness), it's an attribute which both western and african minds do not comprehend.
Detachment is a misunderstanding of passive.
One of my greatest personal failures is becoming detached, totally emotionless and cold. Yet it's so different from the calm acceptance of my good days. Then the smallest thing can swell my spirit, as i accept into myself what i see before me.
Both lack a desire to influence (whatever) in any way, but when you respond emotionally you "complete the circuit".
peace and love
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