THE WAY OF THE SAGE

The tradition of the Tao has some very specific ideas about how sages should behave. For instance, chapter 4 of the Tao Te Ching says they should “blunt the sharpness,” meaning they cannot use a sharp tongue to scold or criticize others. The way they teach people is gentle, and done through personal examples instead of words.

Next, the sages are told to “untangle the knots,” meaning they must keep everything simple. They have to be as plainspoken as possible so anyone can understand them. They cannot speak in riddles, for doing so would be stereotypical behavior unworthy of a real sage.

Along the same line of thinking, the sages are also told to “mix the dust',” meaning they must live and work among people and be involved in the community. Living in a remote region, away from people, would be another stereotypical behavior. Real sages are completely different from hermits.

The Tao Today

Although most of us are not yet ready to be sages, we can nevertheless follow their ways. Refrain from criticism, keep your language simple and get involved with the community. The more you discipline yourself to act from the same code of conduct as the sages, the more you will understand their wisdom.

The Tao of Joy Every Day

~ Derek Lin