Number 15 in the Tao te Ching (Stephen Mitchell’s translation) says:
The ancient Masters were profound and subtle.
Their wisdom was unfathomable.
There is no way to describe it;
all we can describe is their appearance.
They were careful
as someone crossing an iced-over stream.
Alert as a warrior in enemy territory.
Courteous as a guest.
Fluid as melting ice.
Shapable as a block of wood.
Receptive as a valley.
Clear as a glass of water.
Do you have the patience to wait
till your mud settles and the water is clear?
Can you remain unmoving
till the right action arises by itself?
The Master doesn’t seek fulfillment.
Not seeking, not expecting,
she is present, and can welcome all things.
Since most of us learn through example and other peoples’ teachings, we observe, test, experiment and then decide what works for us while living our life and day to day affairs. If we are willing to step into the unknown, beyond the common examples of what most believe about the world, and trust our inner knowingness and the infinite supportive silence within us, then we can awaken and begin to understand the art of Being. Enjoy the journey.
