THE NAYSAYERS

Some people like to shoot down ideas while offering some of their won. They have a negative attitude about everything, including spiritual pursuits. It may be that they will look at what you are studying, fail to understand any of it and then laugh in a dismissive way.

It is not a good idea to engage them in confrontation or debates. That will only drag you down to their level, so you end up just as mired in the negative as they are. It is not a worthwhile use of you time and energy, and it goes against the teachings.

The better way is to turn inward. Establish an inner understanding that naysayers will always relish saying no, and accept that as something you cannot change. Then, think about your dreams. What would add the most meaning and joy to your life? What would bring happiness to you and your loved ones? When your mind is aimed at what you would like to see in your life, the naysayers will vanish into nothingness.

The Tao Today

Think big. Select a goal that fires up the imagination. Make it something you feel passionate about, something that speaks to you and inspires you. You will know that you have found the right goal when the voices of the naysayers fade into the distance. What they are saying will no longer matter to you . . . when you are fully committed to your mission!

The Tao of Joy Every Day

~ Derek Lin