In this verse, Lao-tzu urges the reader to live by his/her own inner light. Trust seems like such a big issue for many of us and it stems from not being connected to our inner light. In other words, our lack of trust in our selves, projects as distrust of others. We’ve built these walls or defense mechanisms to protect ourselves from being hurt by others, but in so doing we ironically hurt ourselves in the process. When you’re connected to your inner light aka your truth, according to Lao-tzu there is no need to hide. You’re allowed to be open and share your light with others without the fear of being used or manipulated. Lao-tzu says, “Be wise and help all beings impartially, abandoning none. Waste no opportunities. This is called following the light.” I think there’s a difference between what he proposes here and the idea of being a so-called ‘doormat’ or ‘martyr’ in our society today. We’re taught to protect our energy from people who seek to drain us of our light/energy. I’m still finding the balance between the two.
He goes on to say, “a knower of the truth travels without leaving a trace, speaks without causing harm, gives without keeping an account.” I think this takes a lot of strength, but its definitely the kind of human I know I am and becoming. Lately I’ve been more aware of how blessed I am and expressing gratitude for not only the material things I own, but the spiritual gifts I possess as well. We always tend to postpone giving until we have more. When we make that million dollars, only then are we able to help the disadvantaged people, or something like that.
But I think it starts with now, it starts with gathering up the resources you have now to improve your life and the lives of others that you can impact.
The author Ari Kiev put it this way, “The real trick is not in acquiring a greater fortune, more prestige, or more power, but in finding out your gift and putting it to use.” I think the gift that Kiev alludes to, is what Lao-tzu refers to as one’s inner light. No matter how much of your gift/light you give, knowing that it’ll never run out is helpful in difficult situations when you may feel slighted by others. The message I get from all of this is to trust in yourself. Trust in your gift/light/ability. Trust that you have everything you need. Trust that you are enough. Trust that within you there is a light that never goes out. Trust that God resides within you. How then can you ever fail?
Ai-Creo