“I do not think that I will ever reach a stage when I will say, “This is what I believe. Finished.” What I believe is alive … and open to growth.”
Exploring Through Quiet Awareness
I was introduced to Taoism through a book recommended to me called “Change Your Thoughts Change Your Life” by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer. It is his interpretation of the Tao te Ching. The Tao te Ching is a classic text consisting of 81 verses which were dictated by Lao-tzu 500 years before the birth of Jesus. It has been translated more than any other book in the world, other than the Bible.
I had already been discovering new ideas and exploring other philosophies and traditions. I read books by Ticht Nacht Han, The Dali Lama, and others, and listened to podcasts.
I am drawn to the philosophies of both Taoism and Buddhism. While I’m still learning about both, the more I learn, the more I feel like my belief system would be leaning more towards The Tao. Ask me a month from now and my answer may change.
I think that we are ever changing, growing and discovering. Some people have a strong belief in a religious denomination. I grew up in the Lutheran church. I had a foundation of understanding, and I knew what I knew, until I discovered more. I haven’t followed any organized religion in a while.
From what I understand Taoism and Buddhism are philosophies. People can hold a religious belief and still follow the practices of a philosophy.
Calm Acceptance
I have discovered that I’m not following any hard and fast rules anymore. I’m cultivating my own belief system. Based on all of my experiences and a growing sense of awareness of the world around me.
I’m trying to become mindful, find a sense of peace and gratitude. I’m trying to be less judgemental, to be kind, even when it’s hard. I guess that is the point, for it not to be hard. To just be a part of who I am.
Tao means ‘The Way’. In Taoism, you are encouraged to “be like water” and flow. Accepting and aware of the joys and challenges in your life. What I’ve learned so far is that we are all part of the Tao, the Source of everything. You can call it whatever you feel comfortable with, The Divine, God, The Universe. I just think of it as The Tao. We are all connected and we are all one. And not just people, but everything here on earth as well as the universe.
“One who lives in accordance with nature does not go against the way of things. He moves in harmony with the present moment, always knowing the truth of just what to do” – from the 8th verse of the Tao te Ching.
Really when it comes down to it, the religions of the world share the same ideas on a basic level, they all just have their own set of ways to live and practices for guidance.
Be kind to yourself and others. Don’t do bad stuff.
I feel like they follow the ‘Golden Rule’ – Treat others how you want them to treat you. And in some ways, you get what you give. (I think that’s from a song … but I will not get distracted trying to look it up, lol)
As I learn and grow in my own understanding, I will continue to share here.
Be Kind to Yourself
This is the kind of conversation that grows.
Everyone has their own beliefs and views about spirituality. I am always open to respectful dialogue.