
Well, Lao Tzu might not have said it exactly as in the translation above, but he did say that an excellent soldier is not a furious man. This could also mean that the «accomplished person is not an aggressive person». In any event it means that one must not confuse anger and violent tendencies from the work that one does, even if that work is the work and the duty of the soldier. I was glad to have learned that (as I did study the Tao) early in life before joining the military…
So I thought we could talk a bit about Lao Tzu and the Tao Te Ching…
Lao Tzu, although I believe he was real, is thought of as a semi-legendary Chinese philosopher believed to have lived in the 6th century B.C. (of course some «experts» place him later). He is traditionally regarded as the founder of Taoism (Daoism) and the author of its foundational text, the Tao Te Ching. His name is also a title which means «Old Master,» and much of his life remains shrouded in myth. Legend says he was an archivist in the imperial court and when he retired and left China a border guard asked him to to write down his wisdom. His wisdom became the Tao Te Ching.
Tao Te Ching means The Book of the Way and Its Virtue which is composed of short, poetic texts that explore the nature of the Tao, which is The Way, the fundamental, and ineffable force that underlies all existence. It emphasizes themes such as:
Non-action (wu wei): acting in harmony with the natural flow rather than through force or struggle
Simplicity and humility: embracing a quiet, modest life
Balance and duality: recognizing the interplay of opposites (yin and yang)
Inner wisdom: valuing intuitive understanding over rigid logic or ambition
The Tao Te Ching has had a profound influence on Chinese philosophy, religion, politics, and art. It is a cornerstone of philosophical Taoism, and its teachings also shaped Chinese Buddhism, Confucianism, and various martial and meditative traditions.
Both Lao Tzu and the Tao Te Ching continue to inspire people around the world seeking a life of balance, peace, and alignment with nature.
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Thank you again, Francesco, for the excellent tribute to Lao Tzu!
Joanna
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I certainly appreciate your words Joanna. Thank you! Have a smashing good weekend!
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Smashing, Francesco, not phenomenal, your favorite word? I will have both!
Joanna
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I’ll have them both too Joanna!
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Thank you, Francesco!
Joanna
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Always a pleasure Joanna. Have a wonderful Saturday afternoon.
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Thank you, I will!
Joanna
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Loved the painting F.
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Thanks so much Malc!
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Thank you for this thoughtful piece and sharing this excellent painting,
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So glad you liked it Charles. Thank you!
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