Tao

I'm reading a 3,000 year old book -- the classic "Tao Te Ching" written by Chinese philosopher Lao-tzu. The book erects a foundation for Taoism and most Eastern philosophy. Its teachings are discussed in a 1970s television show ("Kung Fu"), a 1964 Beatles song ("The Inner Light") and the opening lines of a popular 1970 song ("All Things Must Pass").

Written in laconic language, the Tao Te Ching presents pithy points of wisdom. They encourage harmony with nature as a key to insight and happiness. Sometimes intuitive, sometimes counter-intuitive its lessons lead the reader to ponder possible paths to enlightenment. That contemplation, I find, is itself joyous and educational. Rather than being esoteric, Taoism is a simple philosophy, guiding followers to better, kinder, gentler lives.

Here are a sample of its ideas:

To know

That one does not know,

To know that there is a limit

To what one knows,

This is true and highest knowledge.

*  *  *

Who knows

Does not speak.

Who speaks

Does not know.

Harmonize the light,

Blend with the dust.

This is the Mystic Union.

Whosoever attains this is neither loved nor rejected,

Receives neither benefit nor harm,

Is neither highly esteemed nor despised,

But is nonetheless greatly valued by All-under-Heaven.