Do not imagine that an integral being has the ambition of enlightening the unaware or raising worldly people to the divine realm. To her, there is no self and other, and hence no one to be raised; no heaven and hell, and hence no destination.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the idea of transcendence beyond self and the illusion of separateness.
This quote by Laozi presents a profound philosophical perspective, suggesting that an enlightened being does not strive to elevate others or distinguish between self and others. Instead, it highlights the concept that enlightenment transcends dualities like heaven and hell; it is not about reaching a destination but understanding the interconnectedness of all beings and the illusion of separation.
In practice
In a discussion about personal growth and spirituality.
If you understand others you are smart._x000D_ If you understand yourself you are illuminated._x000D_ If you overcome others you are powerful._x000D_ If you overcome yourself you have strength._x000D_ If you know how to be satisfied you are rich._x000D_ If you can act with vigor, you have a will._x000D_ If you don't lose your objectives you can be long-lasting._x000D_ If you die without loss, you are eternal.
When nothing is done, nothing is left undone.
A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.
Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is enlightenment.
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.
Rule your mind with serenity rather than with force and manipulation.
Avoid flatterers, for they are thieves in disguise.
Even if one takes every reefer madness allegation of the prohibitionists at face value, marijuana prohibition has done far more harm to far more people than marijuana ever could.
The old religionist cried out for his god. The new religionist cries out for some god to be his.
Whites often respond defensively when linked to other whites as a group or 'accused' of collectively benefiting from racism, because as individuals, each white person is 'different' from any other white person and expects to be seen as such.
We're [President Barack Obama and I] clear on the fact that we have to stay humble and prayerful. We have to dig down deep to our roots. When things come together, we know some of it is Barack, some of it is us-but a lot of it has nothing to do with either of us.
Who is more real? Homer or Ulysses? Shakespeare or Hamlet? Burroughs or Tarzan?
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