THE TAO OF COURAGE

Although the Tao is never warlike, it is also not pacifistic. The sages teach courage, but not courage as most people know it. The teachings are about the courage of the spirit.

Courage is usually thought of in terms of its external manifestations, like militant posturing and threatening declarations. It is primarily motivated by the drive to attack and conquer, and it often leads to the glorification of violence.

Courage in the Tao is internal in essence. It is not about external displays, but about an inner resolution born of conviction. It dispenses with posturing and declarations in order to complete its mission quickly and quietly.

It is also not about anger, but about compassion. It is willingness to do what is right in protecting the weak and defending the innocent. This is the kind of courage that is not found in weapons, but only in the heart.

The Tao Today

It is not difficult to put the Tao of courage into practice. Think about problems not as something to attack, but as something to solve with a quiet determination. Think about people not as adversaries, but as human beings who may need your help. Always step forward to offer assistance or solutions rather than withdraw in fear. There is much you can do to be spiritually courageous.

The Tao of Joy Every Day

~ Derek Lin