Monday, October 19, 2009

Hua Hu Ching - Verse 18

Verse Eighteen
There is no one method for attaining realization of the Tao. To regard any method as the method is to create a duality, which can only delay your understanding of the subtle truth. The mature person perceives the fruitlessness of rigid, external methodologies; Remembering this, he keeps his attitude unstructured at all times and thus is always free to pursue the Integral Way. He studies the teachings of the masters. He dissolves all concepts of duality. He pours himself out in service to others. He performs his inner cleansing and does not disturb his teacher with unnecessary entanglements, thus preserving the subtle spiritual connection with the teacher's divine energy. Gently eliminating all obstacles to his own understanding, he constantly maintains his unconditional sincerity. His humility, perseverance, and adaptability evoke the response of the universe and fill him with divine light.
~ Translated by Brian Walker ~
One of the Taoist themes I harp on incessantly is that each person must find their own path. You must find what works for you and allows you to live a life of service to others and contentment within your own being.

No one knows you better than you. No one else knows what makes sense to you. No one else knows what stirs you deep within your being. No one else can see through your eyes, hear through your ears, smell through your nose, think through your mind or touch with your hand.

When we allow others to determine our path FOR us -- religion, family, friends, partners, celebrities, etc. -- we become estranged from ourselves and, if we're all connected, then we become estranged from everything else too!

Put another way, when we permit others to define what our lives mean, then we negate the most elemental definition of what life means itself. By feebly attempting to draw ourselves closer to the Oneness, we're really pushing it away from us.

If I had to boil down into one sentiment my message to the world, it would be this: Unfetter yourself! Break the chain of slavery that keeps you tethered to a dualistic world.

This post is part of a "miniseries". For an introduction, go here.

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