Further Thoughts Along the Journey - Verse 13 - True Nature

     Following your true nature is not glamorous.  In following it you will not receive honors or accolades or admittance to the Hall of Fame.  But it will not disgrace you; it will not leave you bereft when the spotlight has dimmed and you are alone on an empty stage.

     The ego feeds on praise, seeks it and is nourished by its presence.  When praise is withdrawn, when the opinions of others turn against you, the ego punishes and can drive you to despair.

     That is why following your true nature, the nature of the Tao and evoking the qualities of love, gratitude and peace will always raise you up from a world gone mad to dwell with angels.

Further Thoughts Along the Journey - Verse 12 - The Allure of the Manifested World

     The world of effects, the 10,000 things, can lead us a not-so-merry chase.  Colors, tastes, sounds and transitory sensations are but effects and dissipate like smoke in the air.

     In striving after possessions, money and fame, when is enough, enough?  Living from the center of our being where all is at peace, we know true joy lasting as long as we are aware, trusting and faithful to the Author of our being.

     Living simply, nurturing the highest and best in ourselves, we know deep within we have enough and we are enough.

In the Spirit of Universal Prayer, May Peace Prevail on Earth



http://www.worldpeace.org/activities_teleconference_world-prayers.php

November 21st, Saturday
at 12 noon wherever you are.

 

Further Thoughts Along the Journey - Verse 11 - The Silence Within

     Within us is a stillness, an active and aware emptiness. It is intelligent and loving and It is our true essence.  It defines us as children of the Most High.

     Living from this pure, true essence, our world transforms into one of beauty, love and joy.  As we turn back from the distractions of the world, we join with our true nature which is always there in the silence welcoming us home.

Further Thoughts Along the Journey - Verse 10 - Questions, Questions, Questions

     In the 10th verse of the Tao Te Ching Lao Tzu asks if we can live the Mystic Virtues.

     Can we remain centered in the knowledge that we are all one as we live in the external, material world?

     Can we be true without straying, holding steadfast no matter what circumstances appear to divide us?

     Can we be like children, seeing the world free of judgment, self-righteousness, arrogance and rigidity?

     Can we love the people in our lives without domination or manipulation?

     These are the challenges of living in the world of the 10,000 things.  Day by day we return and return again to the silence of our souls where all is known and all is at peace.

Further Thoughts Along the Journey - Verse 9 - Knowing When to Stop

     I have often overdone, over thought and tried too hard.  In my pursuit of perfection, I have forced, coerced and striven far beyond what was necessary.  In doing so, many a  project was inelegantly expressed, artlessly overwrought.

     I am learning my lesson as stated in this 9th verse of the Tao Te Ching.  Applying this wisdom in my everyday activities has been a real eye opener.

     Sculpting has helped me a great deal.  I can see it easily and the material shows me so when I have done too much and made a needlessly detailed piece.  The lines that are beautiful are simple and plainly realized, more profound and meaningful.

     Learning to apply this wisdom in relationships is something else again.  I've become more of a listener, sometimes a captive one, to others views, problems and dramas.

     It is fruitless to try and reciprocate, for I have learned I have no need to explain, impress or assert my views when confronted with an individual so in need of validation.  I would rather cherish the insights gained through painful life experiences and know in my heart I am loved just as I am.

    

Further Thoughts Along the Journey - Verse 8 - The Flow of the Tao

     As gently as water flows,
     taking nothing, giving all,
     the Tao reflects the wonders
     and colors of all
     it has made.
 
     It replenishes the desert lands
     within our minds.
     It nourishes our souls
     with green pastures
     of life.

     The softest element
     can be the strongest.
     With time and devotion,
     It makes Its presence known
     gently and lovingly to all.