Requires tenacity to survive.
Times of adversity inevitably confront us all. We are denied influence, people will not listen to what we have to say, and we are restricted by circumstance. In this situation, followers of Tao must rely on their determination. Without that, they cannot emerge successfully from the danger.During times of adversity, vision and determination decide the outcome. Mere doggedness never served anyone well. Observe carefully, and try to act. If you find yourself tested by the situation, take comfort in the fact that adversity frequently forces one to consolidate one's resources. You can often emerge from adversity stronger than before. Don't be overcome by fear. Take calculated risks if you must, or face danger if you have to. If your mind is focused to the utmost, you will triumph.
Without the difficulty of being hemmed in, the tree in the forest would not be forced to marshal its power to grow toward the light. It must truly bring forth all its inner strength to spread its branches. If it becomes grand, it is in part because of its suffering. Thus the times of adversity can be crucial to the development of one's inner personality.
Personal Interpretation
Adversity will inevitably come our way. We must meet it with determination and mindfulness. We must also work to see the temporary nature of our troubles. It does us good to see adversity for what it truly is: a potential catalyst for growth. We are often stronger than we give ourselves credit for. Just as hemmed-in trees reach for the sunlight that makes their continued lives possible, we too can reach enlightenment by facing adversity head-on and asking ourselves how it can help reveal to us the path that is right for us. If there was no resistance, there would be no cause for strength. We can only truly embrace the light by acknowledging the shadows. Opposites define one another. The dualistic view of nature is one of the most central tenets of Tao.
No comments:
Post a Comment