A Taoist Perspective

In our world of cultural saturation, where western ideas and ideals flood us from the mass media, it is easy to forget that there have been other perspectives--perhaps wiser perspectives like the ones outlined in this passage from the Tao Te Ching (30).

Whoever relies on the Tao in governing humanity
doesn't try to force issues
or defeat enemies by force of arms.
For every force there is a counterforce.
Violence, even well intentioned,
always rebounds upon oneself.

The Master does her work
and then stops.
She understands that the universe
is forever out of control,
and that trying to dominate events
goes against the current of the Tao.
Because she believes in herself,
she doesn't try to convince others.
Because she is content with herself,
she doesn't need others' approval.
Because she accepts herself,
the whole world accepts her.

Brave words from the past that shed ancient light on contemporary landscapes.