Chapter 51
Every being in the universe is an expression of the Tao.It springs into existence,unconscious, perfect, free,takes on a physical body,lets circumstances complete it.That is why every being spontaneously honors the Tao.The Tao gives birth to all beings,nourishes them, maintains them,cares for them, comforts them, protects them,takes them back to itself,creating without possessing,acting without expecting,guiding without interfering.That is why love of the Tao is in the very nature of things.
Every being in the universe is an expression of the Tao.It springs into existence,unconscious, perfect, free,takes on a physical body,lets circumstances complete it.That is why every being spontaneously honors the Tao.The Tao gives birth to all beings,nourishes them, maintains them,cares for them, comforts them, protects them,takes them back to itself,creating without possessing,acting without expecting,guiding without interfering.That is why love of the Tao is in the very nature of things.
The word Chinese word "Tao" may be translated as the English word "Way" as in The Way, The Truth, The Path, The Mystery , Purpose, Secret of Life, or even God. Keeping that in mind re-read this chapter.
Now think about how this relates to the abundant life in nature you see all around you on a spring day. How glorious it is to hear birds welcome a new day! When I read this chapter that's what I picture: how song birds seem to know this, how all things come from God, come from The Way. Notice the last line of the text states that "love of the Tao is in the very nature of things" Here it seems to me like it is referring to the tendency of creatures, in their most innocent, unsoiled state to be unapologetically aware of the Love that holds them all together, The Way that has miraculously, joyously created them with good intentions and harmony in mind. I think harmony is a state of being and balance is a lifetime achievement of which one can be immensely proud.
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