SEAMLESS DEEDS

Tao cultivators seek opportunities to impact other lives in positive ways without calling attention to themselves. They do good deeds and contribute to charities in seamless ways that escape the notice of all the most discerning. The primary reason is that they are not looking for external approval or ego gratification, so they prefer to remain unknown.

Another reason is that they do not want those they assist to become attached. Someone who knows you as a benefactor may seek to repay your kindness, and when his gratitude is directed at you personally, you have obligated him to a karmic debt without meaning to do so.

Therefore, it is far better for those you help to not know your identity. They may still feel gratitude, but without a way to turn it back to you, they will have no choice but to pay it forward so that even more people will benefit. This is the best way to amplify your positive impact on the world.

The Tao Today

Keep your eyes open for opportunities where you can contribute in a seamless way. Always pay it forward and encourage others to do the same. When you give to charity, make sure it is the organization and not you that determines the utilization of your donation. Pass along the power of the Tao and see how widespread it can expand.

The Tao of Joy Every Day

~ Derek Lin