Tao Te Ching

Observing and Nourishing Paradox

When most people
Hear about the Great Integrity,
They waiver between belief and disbelief.
When wise people
Hear about the Great Integrity,
They diligently follow its path.
When ignorant people hear about it
They laugh out loud!
By this very laughter
We know its authenticity.

It is said that –
Enlightenment appears dark,
The progressive way appears retrograde,
The smooth way appears jagged,
The highest peak of revelation
Appears empty like a valley,
The cleanest appears to be soiled,
The greatest abundance
Appears insufficient,
The most enduring inner strength
Appears like weakness,
And creativity appears imitative.

Great talents mature slowly.
Great talents are silent.
Great forms look shapeless.
Transcendent squareness has no corners.

The Great Integrity hides behind all forms,
Stubbornly nourishing the paradoxes
That can enlighten us.

Verse 41
Photo; Saggittarius Dwarf Galaxy