Shape clay into a vessel; _x000D_ _x000D_ It is the space within that makes it useful. _x000D_ _x000D_ Cut doors and windows for a room; _x000D_ _x000D_ It is the holes which make it useful. _x000D_ _x000D_ Therefore benefit comes from what is there; _x000D_ _x000D_ Usefulness from what is not there.
Interpretation
True usefulness comes not just from what is present but from the absence of material aspects, highlighting the importance of space and void.
This quote by Laozi expresses a profound philosophical insight that emphasizes how the value and utility of objects or spaces are derived not only from their physical forms but also from the absence or voids within them. For instance, a clay vessel is defined by the hollow space it contains, which allows it to hold water; similarly, windows and doors serve a purpose due to the openings they create. This highlights the idea that emptiness plays a crucial role in giving meaning and functionality to things, suggesting that what is missing is often as important as what is present.
In practice
During a mindfulness workshop, this quote can emphasize the importance of presence and awareness amidst distractions.
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.
He who has no vision of eternity has no hold on time.
Wrath, unlike love, is not one of the intrinsic perfections of God. Rather, it is a function of God's holiness against sin. Where there is no sin, there is no wrath-but there will always be love in God. Where God in His holiness confronts His image-bearers in their rebellion, there must be wrath, or God is not the jealous God He claims to be, and His holiness is impugned. The price of diluting God's wrath is diminishing God's holiness.
It's the end game that people dread and that's what I'm scared of
Why were you so old when we met? I answered with the truth: Age isn't how old you are but how old you feel.
All beautiful forms of this world are in the process of transformation. Nothing is stable. With every moment, our reality is changing. Mother Ganges, like nature, is constant, but no manifestation of hers remains. Likewise, all that we hold dear in this world is imperceptibly vanishing. We cannot cling to anything. But if we can appreciate the beauty of the underlying current of truth, we can enjoy a reality deeper than the fickle waves of joy and sorrow.
A 'no' does not hide anything, but a 'yes' very easily becomes a deception.
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