Tao Te Ching: The Old Master on Recognizing Happiness

The rigid, calculating ego is a trap. Through the metaphors of the empty vessel, valley spirit and mirror, the Tao Te Ching shows us that true strength comes from being immovable and aligning with the silent, formless void from which everything emerges. When we are angered or frustrated, can we restrain ourselves long enough to stop the mind from entangling us? Can we turn the light of awareness within to illuminate our internal reality instead? The ancient master advises us to do the following. Be nonreactive. Stop calling out-there is no one out there to answer you. Instead, stay silent and let your awareness gently sink. Breathe slowly and drop your shoulders, letting your body hang. Understand that phantoms have a way of easing themselves out of a relaxed body. Finally, realize that you are already fully equipped to probe not only your inner core but also reality itself.