01 February 2017

Adding to Rumi...

Taoism, because Taoism too is of the heart.

Taoism is neither a religion nor a philosophy. It is just a word, and, roughly translated it means 'the way'. The way to what? It is the way to accepting ourselves. For this to happen, we need to connect with Nature, adopt simplicity as the mantra of our life, and have a free and easy approach to life. In other words, we need to explore our deep inner essence by a) trusting our intuition; b) leaving off all kinds of judgmentalism on ourselves and the world around us, as these would only hold us back and cloud our mind and heart; c) removing all conflict and anger; and d) being kind to ourselves, so that beyond a wholesome and gentle discipline we don't get into the force of routine, or the force of anything.

Sharing some Taoist life lessons:

1. Taoism is a process of healing. So, we need to take time to heal.

2. Taoism is a process of learning. Every person and situation can teach us something. We need to keep an open mind.

3. Taoism is quietness. We absolutely and most definitely need to take time off to hear ourself. We have to move away from people and situations that are noisy and disturb the calm waters of our mind and heart.

4. Taoism is not about perfection. Our own little imperfections are actually what define us...these give us our individuality and our distinction as unique persons. Taoism is about accepting the best and worst parts of ourselves and our lives.

5. Taoism teaches us to drop all expectations. Live only in the here and now. For instance: An expectation can be that we will smile. Only ONE thing. Don't add anything else to this, like, learning, or working out something, or helping someone....no...Just smile. The minute we add on anything, conflicts will start to happen. If we concentrate on fulfilling only the one expectation of smiling, there is no struggle. The minute our expectation includes anything or anyone outside of ourself, all kinds of other things come into play...differences, needs, disappointments, excitements...

6. Taoism is deeply personal. Do what feels right for us. Be open, experiment and embrace what works for us.