Finding Peace

As the summer winds down, I have been reflecting on the need to find peace in these troubled times in which we live. As usual, having the time to work and relax in the garden has helped to make the meandering journey somewhat easier to navigate.

I once again turn to the words of Lao Tsu and Taoism to help me find my own path. The ancient text of the Hua Hu Ching, although more likely 4th century reflections, contain a wisdom that inspires regardless of the origins and attribution. May the verse below offer some insight:

Thirty Seven

A superior person cares for the well-being of all

    things.

She does this by accepting responsibility for the energy 

    she manifests, both actively and in the subtle realm.

Looking at a tree, she sees not an isolated event, but 

    root, leaves, trunk, water, soil and sun: each event 

    related to the others, and "tree" arising out of their 

    relatedness.

Looking at herself or another, she sees the same thing.

Trees and animals, humans and insects, flowers and

    birds:

These are the active images of the subtle energies that flow 

    from the stars throughout the universe. Meeting 

    and combining with each other and the elements of 

    the earth, they give rise to all living things.

The superior person understands this, and understands 

    that her own energies play a part in it.

Understanding these things, she respects the earth as 

    her mother, the heavens as her father, and all living 

    things as her brothers and sisters.

Caring for them, she knows that she cares for herself.

Giving to them, she knows that she gives to herself.

At peace with them, she is always at peace with herself.

By Lao Tsu

Translated by Brian Walker

As a teacher, I have always believed that we are all connected and that caring and giving are wonderful ways to find peace for all. Although a brief offering, I hope that you find the following video a momentary distraction from the isolated events in our ever complicated lives. Perhaps it will help you relax and consider the beauty in the world that surrounds us everyday. Looking past the troubles we face, we might behold the "tree" and find a moment of peace. 

Enjoy.