Living The Elusive Paradox

Right now make a simple decision to move your index finger. Now wiggle your toes. Next, lift your arm. Finally, ask yourself, What is it that allows me to make these movements?

In other words, what is it that allows you to see shapes and colors? What force behind your eyes invisibly signals you to process the sky as blue or a tree as tall? What is the formless energy that tweaks a vibration somewhere in your ear to give rise to sound?

What it all is, is formless and nameless. Yes, it is value. Yes, it is obscure. And when you begin to see the world in this manner, you begin knowing that aspect of yourself. This is what Lao-tzu describes as "the life breath of all things," and it needn't remain a mystery. You have the same eternal Tao inside of you, and you apply it a million times a day. It is within you... it is you.

This far-reaching 21st verse of the Tao Te Ching asks you to let go of seeking results in money, accomplishments, acquisitions, fame, and so on. Instead, shift your attention to the energy in the beginning of all things - the elusive and intangible Tao. The greatest virtue is to find this nameless, formless force within yourself. Know it by looking within and seeing it at work in all of your thoughts and actions.

Do The Tao Now

Today, become conscious of the force that allows your every movement. For five minutes in your meditation, stay in "the gap" between your thoughts and notice the elusive but omnipresent invisible Source that allows you to speak, hear, touch, and move.