Be Like Water

One of the prominent wisdoms in Tao Te Ching on character development is comprised of four Chinese characters: 上善若水, which can be translated as: "the highest goodness resembles water".

Why water? There are three characteristics of water that we can learn from. First, water flows from high to low position, showing us that we are to remain humble. Second, water flows around any obstacles, showing us that we are to remain flexible in our interpretation or action. Third, water flows to any places, including those avoided by others, showing us that we are to remain non-judgmental.

It is a reminder that we should constantly position ourselves to align with the natural flow of things, without feeling we are more important or entitled than anyone else. How apt this ancient advice can be applied to our modern living!

This blog is adapted from the book Effortless Living: Inspirations from the Ancient Text Tao Te Ching