Tao – Path to Serenity

After class this morning, I told everyone that my in-box was inundated with submissions for the Poetry Challenge. They laughed heartily, as they then knew I had not received any. Jean was in class and has since done due diligence and is the first to submit poems (that’s right plural) – not one but two!

Jean writes, “Let’s get this thing going! I’m submitting two poems – one written in 6 BC (below the image), and one of my works :)”

Here is more from Jean:

Lao-tzu’s Tao Te Ching, or Book of the Way, is an ancient Chinese philosophy on living.  In eighty-one chapters, the Tao Te Ching looks at life and gives advice on balance and perspective.

It was written around 6th century BC. The text’s true authorship and date of composition is still being debated. The oldest excavated text dates back to the late 4th century BC. (Reference Wikipedia)

Here are some of my favorite excerpts from an English translation.

The supreme good is like water,
Which nourishes all things without trying to.
It is content with the low places that people disdain.
Thus it is like the Tao.

In dwelling, live close to the ground.
In thinking, keep to the simple.
In conflict, be fair and generous.
In governing don’t try to control.
In work, do what you enjoy.
In family life, be completely present.

When you are content to be simply yourself
And don’t compare or compete,
Everybody will respect you.

Fill your bowl to the brim
And it will spill.
Keep sharpening your knife
And it will blunt.
Chase after money and security
And your heart will never unclench.
Care about people’s approval
And you will be their prisoner.

Do your work, then step back.
The only path to serenity.