Join us on a journey as we delve into the essence of “oneself” and explore how we become ensnared by the mirages of “possessions” and societal notions of "success."
In this episode, we unravel the delicate art of surrender, awakening to the truth that all we seek is already within our grasp. It is only by aligning our lives with the harmonious flow of the Tao that we can genuinely embrace our truest selves.
WATCH THE EPISODE BELOW!
EPISODE TRANSCRIPT
Welcome back to another reading of The Tao te Ching. This classic ancient Chinese philosophical text has many interpretations regarding its origins. We won’t explore that here; there’s plenty online if you want to learn more.
Our purpose is to read some passages, interpret them through our lens, and invite engagement. Hopefully, you resonate with the message and share your thoughts.
My name is Mark.
I am Adam, and today we read Chapter 22.
"If you want to become whole, let yourself be partial. If you want to become straight, let yourself be crooked.
If you want to become full, let yourself be empty. If you want to be reborn, let yourself die.
If you want to be given everything, give everything up."
"The master, by residing in the Dao, sets an example for all beings.
Because he doesn't display himself, people see his light.
Because he has nothing to prove, people trust his words.
Because he doesn't know who he is, people recognize themselves in him.
Because he has no goal in mind, everything he does succeeds."
"When the ancient masters said, 'If you want to be given everything, give everything up,'
they weren't using empty phrases. Only in being lived by the Dao can you be truly yourself."
There's a different version, a more feminine version, but the core meaning is the same. There is much to unpack here.
This passage reminds me of Jesus’s teaching: "If you want to be given everything, give everything up." It aligns with gospel narratives and the idea of the Dao, which cannot be defined but lives through you. Through this living alignment, you already have everything and may give up what burdens your true self.
This offers context and clarity on why Jesus taught this, reflecting my Catholic upbringing.
I see themes of humility here—especially in the lines about boasting.
"Because she does not boast of herself, she becomes a shining example."
Humility and authenticity resonate with others more than facades or idolization.
"Because she does not glorify herself, she becomes a person of merit."
This raises questions about motivation: Do you act to be genuinely helpful, kind, and courteous? Or to elevate your image?
Releasing ego brings forth authenticity, which people relate to—even if they don't admit it.
This dynamic is changing, especially with social media culture, where curated facades are common. Authenticity draws connection and understanding.
Leading by example is key.
I’m struck by the repeated phrase:
Let yourself.
In our culture, this often has negative connotations: letting yourself be partial, crooked, empty, or even die.
But here, it means allowing yourself to be, to express your true nature.
Growing up in a polite, middle-class environment, politeness can suppress authentic self-expression, maintaining social graces at the cost of genuine presence.
"Because he doesn't know who he is, people recognize themselves in him."
This can feel unsettling—losing a fixed sense of self. But it points to a deeper, more inclusive sense of self available if you allow it.
The word that resonates here is surrender.
Surrender is often misunderstood and linked to fear or giving up.
But it is actually about liberation.
I have a coffee mug that says:
"I am liberating my imprisoned splendor."
This affirms the process of freeing the brilliance within us that is often confined by social conditioning—fear, family, socioeconomic, racial, and gender limitations.
When we express this inner splendor, we become free from limiting societal norms.
The real Way—the Dao—is natural flow.
Authentic self-expression enables greater flow and connection among us.
Hopefully, this resonates with you. Please share your thoughts in the comments. We welcome dialogue.
Until then, be well and keep flowing.