Sunday, December 13, 2009

Wen Tzu - Verse 73, Part I

from Verse Seventy-Three
When you go on the Way, it makes other people unable to wound you no matter how boldly they stab, unable to hit you no matter how skillfully they strike.
~ Wen-tzu: Understanding the Mysteries ~
For me, this passage relates to two different levels. First, it pertains to our emotional selves. The person who possesses an inner confidence that, regardless of the situation or circumstance, he/she will handle it appropriately, cannot be emotionally wounded. If one understands their inherent nature and who they are, external expectations hold no power.

Second, it pertains to the relationship between our physical and essential selves. The person who sees the connection of all things and believes each thing is a manifestation of the One can be physically killed, but not essentially killed. While the body may be shed, the essence of each person will live on in some manner. It may not be self-conscious, but the vital essence will continue to nourish and sustain life.

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

2 comments:

  1. THE AMERICAN TAOIST SAYS HEY. ANOTHER GREAT READ FROM YOU TO ME.ONE OF MY FAVORITE AFFIRMATIONS IS"TODAY, NO MATTER WHAT I AM DOING,WHERE I AM GOING, IT IS MY DOMINANT INTENT TO SEE NOTHING IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN THAT I FEEL GOOD"
    NOW TO AVOID THE NEGATIVE ENERGY THAT WILL APPEAR. HAVE A GREAT DAY.

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  2. this verse demonstrates the martial arts philosophy. the first rule in karate is, when an opponent strikes, "don't be there." blocking is only if you can't first get out of the way, counterstriking is only if you can't either get away or gain control without harm.

    a good martial artist is like air, punches don't land at all.

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