It is said that to fly towards our goal of enlightenment,
we need two wings – wings of wisdom and compassion.
I initially read this 28 years ago,
and I know I did not have the appreciation for it that I do now.
Such a most profound, and thusly,
such a beautiful writing, by Lao Tzu.
If anyone is interested,
I would enjoy exchange regarding this teaching.
“Prevent trouble before it arises.
Put things in order before they exist.
The giant pine tree
grows from a tiny sprout.
The journey of a thousand miles
starts beneath your feet.
Rushing into action, you fail.
Trying to grasp things, you lose them.
Forcing a project to completion,
You ruin what was almost ripe.
Therefore the Master takes action
by letting things take their course.
He remains calm
at the end as at the beginning.
He has nothing
thus has nothing to lose.
What he desires is nondesire;
what he learns is to unlearn.
He simply reminds people
of who they have always been.
He cares about nothing but the Tao [the Way].
Thus he can care for all things.”
