The philosophical side of the meditative arts has always been a passion of mine. There are countless rich life lessons embedded in this practice. In my early 20s, I met one of my first meditation teachers, who introduced me to various methods for integrating these philosophical teachings into my daily life. It didn’t take long before I was hooked, and these rituals became part of my life’s work.
One of the treasures I’ve always appreciated about studying ancient philosophies is the depth, strategy, and awareness that come from consistent reflection and focus.
I use the word “treasure” deliberately. Not only do you benefit from reading these teachings and pondering their lessons, but, with time, their meanings deepen. Sometimes, they even shift as you grow, and your perspectives broaden. I’ve often learned something from a teacher, thinking I understood its value, only to realize years later that I didn’t fully grasp its meaning until I had grown enough to see it clearly.
This style of mental and emotional development has always fascinated me. It expands your ability to see past the surface. Too often in life, we look at things as if we’re peering through a spyglass, narrowly focused and missing the broader possibilities. By learning to widen our perspective, we unlock deeper insights into life’s mysteries, and develop tools for crafting profound strategies in relationships, business, and personal growth.
When I was 23, a Tai Chi teacher told me that he would know me better within a couple of months than I knew myself. At the time, I dismissed it as arrogance. How could anyone know me better than I knew myself? Now, after 36 years of studying the meditative arts, I believe he probably did.
In this post, I want to share one of the training methods I’ve learned along the way. It has offered me countless life lessons and has positively influenced thousands of students I’ve taught over the years.
The Practice of Philosophical Memorization
One powerful way to study ancient philosophies is memorizing sayings or lessons inviting us to see life from a deeper perspective. These sayings are often short and designed to be recited repeatedly until their meaning resonates within us.
Today, it’s rare to find people who actively memorize long texts, yet this practice is incredibly rewarding. Let’s explore one of my favorite sayings from the Tao Te Jing, breaking it down line by line to uncover its wisdom:
A Way Can Be a Guide, but Not a Fixed Path
We all learn through experience—sometimes through trial and error, sometimes by following the guidance of others. However, while these lessons and strategies are valuable, they are not guarantees. Take, for example, asking a PGA tour golfer for advice on how to reach their level of success. Even if you follow their exact path, you’ll still need to adapt it to your own physical, mental, and emotional state. A path can guide you, but ultimately, it must be your own.
Names Can Be Given, but Not Permanent Labels
We often label situations and people based on our narrow perspective, thinking we have them all figured out. But just as we change and grow, so do others. The person you went to high school with may not be the same at your 20-year reunion. Labels are transient, and clinging to them limits our ability to see things as they truly are.
Nonbeing is Called the Beginning of Heaven and Earth
Nonbeing represents the potential that exists before creation. Think of the quiet before a song begins or the blank canvas before an artist’s first stroke. This void is not emptiness but the fertile space where all possibilities are born. Embracing this concept allows us to see the power in stillness and beginnings.
Being is Called the Mother of All Things
Being, in contrast, is the manifestation of potential into reality. It is formed from the formless—the painting that emerges from the blank canvas, the business built from an idea. Being is the tangible expression of creation, and it reminds us that action and form are just as vital as stillness and potential.
Always Passionless Thereby Observe the Subtle
A neutral, calm mindset allows us to notice life’s finer details. When we’re too emotionally invested, we often miss the nuances that could provide greater understanding. For instance, in a heated argument, detachment helps us listen more clearly and notice what’s really driving the other person’s emotions.
Ever Intent Thereby Observe the Apparent
While neutrality helps us see subtleties, intent focuses our energy on what is directly in front of us. This balance is essential. For example, in business, being too detached might prevent action, while focus helps us recognize opportunities and take decisive steps forward.
These Two Come from the Same Source but Differ in Name
Subtlety and focus, passionlessness and intent—these seemingly opposing forces arise from the same source: awareness. Like a photographer using one lens to capture both wide landscapes and close-up details, it’s our awareness that determines how we experience life.
Both Are Considered Mysteries
Life is full of mysteries, both tangible and intangible. Why do some actions succeed while others fail? Why do some relationships thrive and others fade? Acknowledging these mysteries humbles us and opens us to learning and growth.
The Mystery of Mysteries is the Gateway to Marvels
At the heart of all mysteries lies the greatest one: the marvel of existence itself. When we embrace the unknown with curiosity, we open ourselves to life’s magic—whether it’s the transformation of a student or a revelation about our growth.
Conclusion
The Tao Te Jing offers timeless wisdom, helping us navigate life with greater awareness and understanding. Each line encourages us to embrace balance, explore life’s mysteries, and cultivate both subtlety and focus.
By integrating these teachings into your daily practice, you’ll discover not only a deeper understanding of the world but also a profound transformation within yourself. Over time, these lessons will evolve with you, offering new insights and marvels at every stage of your journey.
This practice is not just about understanding—it’s about experiencing life in its fullest, richest form.
