The Master observes the world, but trusts his inner vision. He allows things to come and go. His heart is as open as the sky.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of inner wisdom and openness while observing the world around us.
In this quote, Laozi highlights the essence of mastery as a balance between external observation and internal trust. The Master remains open and accepting, allowing experiences to unfold without attachment, illustrating a profound acceptance of life's ebb and flow while relying on one's inner guidance.
In practice
This quote can be shared during a meditation session to encourage mindfulness.
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.
You don’t learn from successes; you don’t learn from awards; you don’t learn from celebrity; you only learn from wounds and scars and mistakes and failures. And that’s the truth.
The myriad things are complete in us. There is no greater joy than to reflect on ourselves and become sincere.
You are the community now. Be a lamp for yourselves. Be your own refuge. Seek for no other. All things must pass. Strive on diligently. Don’t give up.
While everyone else is thinking about economics and politics, executive salaries and the future of the euro, do the opposite, even if it's hard. Invest in the spirit.
Take nothing on its looks; take everything on evidence. There's no better rule.
And if you're lucky enough to survive going crazy and get back to the point where you can pass for normal, it builds a question into the rest of your life. You have to forgive people for wondering, 'How all right can he be?'
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