Tao te Ching

Limitations

When embracing the unity
Of mind, body, emotions
And spiritual being,
Can we transcend our fragmentations
Without leaving a trace?

When Qi Gong sculpts sinew suppleness,
Can our flesh become soft
As a new-born babe?

Can we cleanse the inner vision,
Leaving mind in spiritual purity?

Can our affairs of the heart,
And our affairs of state
Be so unconditional
That we grant unqualified permissibility?

Can the gate to yin be opened
Without inviting yang?

Can our reasoning mind
Be purged of coercion,
Allowing our heart its unfettered joy?

Can we act like other species,
Seeking no reward,
Taking no pride,
Guiding without enslaving?

Such is our vision of the Great Integrity
On whose path we have at last
Planted both feet,
Ready to move, step by step.
Until we arrive at the great unfettered gate.

Translator; Ralph Alan Dale
Verse 10

Another Version from Wayne Dyer
Living the Wisdom of the Tao..

Carrying body and soul
And embracing the one,
Can you avoid separation?

Can you let your body become
As supple as a newborn child’s?
In the opening and shutting of heavens gate,
Can you play the feminine part?

Can you love your people
and govern your domain
Without self-importance?

Giving birth and nourishing;
Having, yet not possessing
Working, yet not taking credit;
Leading without controlling or dominating.

One who heeds this power
Brings the Tao to this very earth.
This is the primal virtue.

Photo; Starry Night