Chinese Wisdom and Energy Today
January 24, 2008
Not everything is obvious.
I have found that sometimes a story can carry more energy … more meaning … and more wisdom when it puzzles me at first glance. I wonder what you will take away from this brief tidbit of traditional Chinese wisdom.
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Tsze-lu asked about energy.
The Master Confucius said, “Do you mean the energy of the South, the energy of the North, or the energy which you should cultivate yourself?
“To show forbearance and gentleness in teaching others; and not to revenge unreasonable conduct:-this is the energy of southern regions, and the good man makes it his study.
“To lie under arms; and meet death without regret:-this is the energy of northern regions, and the forceful make it their study.
“Therefore, the superior man cultivates a friendly harmony, without being weak.
-How firm is he in his energy!
He stands erect in the middle, without inclining to either side.
-How firm is he in his energy!
When good principles prevail in the government of his country, he does not change from what he was in retirement.
How firm is he in his energy!
When bad principles prevail in the country, he maintains his course to death without changing.
-How firm is he in his energy!”
How firm is your energy?
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