The Spiritual Way of Lao Tzu – On the Art of Living
“The key to growth is the introduction of higher dimensions of consciousness into our awareness.” ~Lao Tzu
Many consider Lao Tzu as a great philosopher and he is often venerated as a saint. He was an expert on the art of living a simple but fully spiritual life. From his teachings we can gather some important precepts that can serve as guides throughout our own life journeys.
On Being Humble
“Great acts are made up of small deeds.” ~ Lao Tzu
The Master explains the concept of humbleness through the analogy with water. Comparing the Human being to the water, he says that the good individual is like water, nurturing and maintaining life but never trying to conquer the elevated positions.
“In the world there is nothing more submissive and weak than water. Yet for attacking that which is hard and strong nothing can surpass it” ~Lao Tzu
The water is content in keep its dominions at the lower levels because it knows that the oceans control the flow of all the currents and rivers because they are in a lower position than they are.
He also explains that there is nothing more flexible than water, but nothing can surpass it when it refers to weakening the hard rock. In other words, the weak can win over the strong and the soft can conquer the rigid, just by being malleable and humble.
“Be Content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you” ~Lao Tzu
If you want to receive, you need to first give, which is the law of the seeds and the wise harvest. This precept conceives a humble attitude before the people in your life and life in general, remembering that we are all in the same path of learning and all deserve respect. In summary, there is no one that deserves hatred and everyone is in the pursuit of happiness.
“When you are content to be simply yourself and don't compare or compete, everybody will respect you” ~Lao Tzu
On Being Kind and Compassionate
"Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love." ~Lao Tzu
