When I wrote the below entry in January 1995, I had been writing for about a year and was well into what was to become my commentary on The Book of Lieh Tzu, that I was to call “My travels with Lieh Tzu”. My writing was not only about reading The Book of Lieh Tzu, but having it pass through me in my own words. What you have been seeing below what I am writing today, is the commentary I wrote as I initially read about the writings of Lieh Tzu back in 1995. The initial book was said to have been written in about 2oo to 300 B.C. Much debate has followed since then as to rather Lieh Tzu actually existed, that writing attributed to him was only a repository for numerous Taoist writing that existed at the time. I think he did.
Lieh Tzu’s writing became required reading and study for those who saw the need to put into practice by practical everyday application the principles on what was to be known as Taoism, and the writings of Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu. For over two thousand years The Book of Lieh Tzu, has been required study in Taoist temples in China. His book has served as a companion to both Lao Tzu’s Tao Te Ching and Chuang Tzu’s Book of Chuang Tzu. This particular chapter entitled The Yellow Emperor pays tribute to his role in history.
This is why myths, legends, and history are so crucial in shaping our identity today. Over time, during periods when literacy was scarce, importance of preserving and acknowledging the past became evident. Similarly, in the present, understanding and learning from what came before us remains essential. The old adage that we don’t need to reinvent the wheel if it has already been invented encapsulates the idea of building upon previous knowledge to enhance survival and improve our lives. Contributing to what is termed as having an “institutional memory” that provides a foundation and benchmark for progress.
When we recognize ourselves as a microcosm of the cosmos, or universe, and as an integral part of all things found in nature, we can begin to discover our purpose beyond self-interest. To speak of becoming transcendental is to embrace the highest respect, first for us, those who came before us, and then for all things under Heaven here on Earth. It means holding sacred what is truly sacred and acting in alignment with that understanding.
My travels with Lieh Tzu / Interpolations along the Way
Chapter Two – The Yellow Emperor
31. Exposing one’s wisdom teeth
Staying clear of external extractions pulling at your integrity as you would with a pulled wisdom tooth. Once it’s gone, it is gone for good. Not keeping to ourselves allows others to take advantage of our inner goodness and spirit. Defeating the purpose of remaining still and indifferent to all around us. Opening ourselves up once the aura of our internal nature is exposed is like sweets in the candy store with everyone craving some.
Others come running to your doorstep asking favors and advise left and right. Laying responsibility on your front porch as the shoes they remove before entering. Signifying the sweetness, they have discovered in the place you now call home.
All this attention brings back your concern as to your proper place in the universe and questions the seriousness of the effort you must make as you continue your journey.
Questions abound as to the role you must play. The Way teaches us to be kind and gentle with others. To do good for good’s sake and for evil to return justice. To be guided by what we feel, not what the world brings forward for our eyes to see.
That our destiny is rooted in our past. Not learning from mistakes makes for repeating offenses repeatedly. What is our role?
Can we mature without awakening others to the true path that must be followed? Find nourishment in showing the way that the Tao teaches? However, in giving it away we find ourselves exposed as one’s tooth is to candy.
Stay clear of allowing others to pull your wisdom teeth, as once they are gone you become exposed to ill winds causing you harm. Assist others in discovering the sweetness of the Tao for themselves but refrain from forever needing false teeth. 1/24/95
Number thirty-one of one hundred fifty-eight entries
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