Tao Te Ching, Chapter 29 "The Natural" 自然章 - Part 3 - Paraphrase

29 Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching, Chapter 29 "The Natural" (自然章) Paraphrase by Derek Lin We paraphrase a chapter to demonstrate a complete understanding of the chapter by expressing the original meaning in our own words. The paraphrase: Throughout history, there have been many who attempted to dominate the world in order to control it. All have failed. This is to be expected, because the world is a divine vessel, not meant to be controlled by anyone. Those who meddle with it will fail, and those who grasp at it will lose. This also applies to nature itself. Anyone who tries to exploit it or manipulate it will also end up with failure and loss — and probably cause a lot of damage in the process. The world contains myriad living things, all existing in balance with one another. They play different roles and have different characteristics — for instance, the prey runs away while the predator gives chase; some possess great strength while others rely on speed or stealth; and so on. Human society is similar in that we also play different roles and have unique abilities. Our goal, like the myriad things, must also be to coexist in balance and harmony. Thus, the sages practice moderation as they cultivate the Tao. They eliminate extremes in doing too much, wasting too much, or thinking too much of themselves. Such extremes lead to the desire to dominate and control, which in turn leads to failure and loss. They live harmoniously within the world, the sacred vessel… as they continue down their own sacred journey. ——————————————————— Derek Lin's Tao Resource Suggestions Derek Lin's Website: https://dereklin.com Taoism.net: https://taoism.net Tao Meeting (virtual): https://taoism.net/tao-meeting/ Derek Lin Books on Facebook:   / dereklinbooks   Tao Talks with Derek Lin on Facebook:   / tao.talks   Tao Talks with Derek Lin on YouTube:    / @taotalkswithdereklin   Derek Lin's Author Page on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Derek-L... ——————————————————— Derek's books are available on Amazon.com in multiple formats. His audiobooks are available on Audible.com. Below are direct Amazon.com links. Be sure to share with those who may be open to Tao wisdom. Amazon reviews are always appreciated too. Tao Te Ching: Annotated & Explained: http://amzn.to/2m02hO6 The Tao of Tranquility: https://amzn.to/3BXrzQq The Tao of Wisdom: https://amzn.to/3a2vyzg The Tao of Daily Life: https://amzn.to/2mjPjLT The Tao of Success: https://amzn.to/2ljNhf3 The Tao of Joy Every Day: https://amzn.to/2lz8Fsc The Tao of Happiness: https://amzn.to/2myyAVK