In this verse of the Tao te Ching, Laotzu aims to highlight the formless nameless aspect of reality. This is something I’ve pondered and I’m sure every person that has ever walked the face of the earth, has as well. Where do we come from? What/Who exactly is running the whole show, from the “Big Bang’ to present?
Laotzu urges us to look within to find these answers. At the end of the verse, he says, “How do I know the ways of all things at the beginning? I look inside myself and see what is within me.” That's Profound!
Growing up, every one is told a similar but different story about creation based on their religious and scientific backgrounds. As humans, its only natural that we developed stories to help our brains/ ego cope with our reality. How is it that no one knows? It’s actually kind of hilarious, that in this world where everything has a name and explanation, there doesn't seem to be a concrete unanimous explanation for why or how we exist.
Although logic and reasoning has brought us a long way, it is still limited in how far it can take us as a collective. That’s why there’s been a huge surge in spirituality practices, to help people who are sensitive to cope with the happenings of the world. We live in a highly technological world, where everything you need is at your fingertips, except peace of mind - A peace that comes through a sense of belonging and connectedness. We are highly connected digitally, but lack authentic connection with each other.
Anxiety, depression and a lack of purpose are so commonplace nowadays and I can’t help but wonder how we’ll get through this as a collective. Over the past few months, I’ve adopted a few mindfulness practices and lifestyle changes that have allowed me to slow down and embark on the scary but necessary journey within. What am I afraid of? I think it goes to show how disconnected I must be from Source - the orchestrator of all things seen and unseen. I’m unlearning the ‘Seeing is Believing’ mentality I’ve been conditioned to believe. I’m relearning how to use my imagination and my speech - 2 of the most creative tools to manifest my ideas and visions. I have to say that this is not as easy as it sounds. It takes a certain level of commitment to imagination, positive thinking, creativity and innovation. To believe in things that are not yet made manifest. I believe if I were to invite Laotzu over to my apt in Bedstuy for tea, this is what he would tell me:
Look to connect with Source energy, the driving force behind all that is seen and unseen. Believe that you are a creation of this force, so that means you also possess the ability to create form (manifestation) out of the formless (ideas and dreams). Believe in your ability to create. The Force is With You! So stop doubting yourself. Greatness is your Birthright.
Ai Creo