The Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu ~ Verse 8

Translation by Jonathan Star

“The best way to live

is to be like water

for water benefits all things

and goes against non of them

It provides for all people

and even cleanses those places

a man is loath to go

In this way it is just like Tao

Live in accordance with the nature of things:

Build your house on solid ground

Keep your mind still

When giving, be kind

When speaking, be truthful

When ruling, by one-pointed

When acting, remember—timing is everything

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”

The TAO TE CHING has been a grounding guide book for my life with its many twists and turns over the years. This particular book was left for me by a former partner and I think it was the greatest thing he gave me. People come into our lives for reasons we may never know with each of them having an impact in how we reshape ourselves once that relationship expires. I frequently refer to this ancient guide for navigation especially when I struggle to quiet those voices and moments of overwhelming anxiety. These verses have brought me great peace and I suggest anyone experiencing a conflict or feelings of emotional imbalance to open the Tao Te Ching to a random page and read the first verse they see. It is not a cure all however, it will create calm for that moment. One moment, one step, one action leads to another.