I am a Taoist priest. Today, I will talk to you about the core ideas of the Taoist classic "Zhuangzi".
The book "Zhuangzi" is like a treasure trove of wisdom, containing endless mysteries and inspirations.
First, freedom and ease. Zhuangzi proposed "Free and Easy Wandering", emphasizing getting rid of the bondage of the secular world and pursuing spiritual freedom. In this complicated and diverse world, we are often burdened by fame and fortune and held back by various desires. However, Zhuangzi tells us to let go of these external pursuits and return to the authenticity of our hearts. Just like the roc spreading its wings and soaring in the sky, not bound by anything. We should learn to transcend secular concepts and face life with an open-minded attitude, not being disturbed by external things, so as to reach the realm of freedom and ease.
Let me tell you a little story. Once there was a scholar who was wholeheartedly pursuing fame and official position. He buried himself in study all day long but was always frustrated. He felt extremely distressed, so he came to a Taoist temple and asked a Taoist priest for advice. The Taoist priest told him about Zhuangzi's "Free and Easy Wandering" and told him not to be bound by fame and fortune but to learn to let go. After hearing this, the scholar pondered deeply. After returning, he no longer clung to fame and official position but began to enjoy the beauty in life. He went for a stroll in the mountains and admired the beauty of nature; he got together with friends and talked freely about the meaning of life. Gradually, his mood became cheerful and his life was full of joy. This story tells us that only by letting go of external pursuits can we obtain true freedom and happiness.
Second, the theory of the equality of all things. Zhuangzi believes that all things are equal and there is no distinction between high and low, noble and humble. All things in the world have their own value and significance of existence. We should not judge others or other things by our own standards. Whether it is a high mountain or a low valley, whether it is a big tree or a small grass, they all have their unique charm. In life, we should learn to respect the choices and lifestyles of others and not easily judge and blame others. At the same time, we should also recognize our own limitations and not be too conceited.
For example, in a garden, there are all kinds of flowers. Some flowers are brightly colored and dazzling, while some are plain and unadorned. But they are all blooming with their own beauty in their respective positions. We cannot ignore the existence of a flower just because its color is not bright enough, nor can we belittle its value just because its fragrance is not strong enough. Each flower is unique and has its own meaning of existence. Similarly, in our lives, everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses. We should look at others with an equal eye, learn from each other, and make progress together.
Third, following nature. Zhuangzi advocates following the laws of nature and not violating the nature of nature. Nature is great and it has its own way of operation and rhythm. We should respect nature and live in harmony with nature. In life, we should learn to adapt to the changes of nature and not forcibly change those things that cannot be changed. For example, the change of seasons, birth, old age, sickness, and death are all laws of nature that we cannot resist. We should accept these changes with a peaceful mind and cherish the present moment.
Once there was a farmer who always complained about the bad weather, which affected his crop harvest. One day, he met a wise man. The wise man told him to follow nature and not complain. After hearing this, the farmer began to observe the changes of nature and adjust his planting methods according to the weather conditions. Slowly, his crop harvest became better and better, and he also became more optimistic and cheerful. This story tells us that only by following nature can we live in harmony with nature and obtain a better life.
The wisdom of "Zhuangzi" is profound and extensive. It provides us with a brand new way of looking at the world and life. I hope that all believers and fellow practitioners can feel the wisdom of "Zhuangzi" with their hearts and apply it to life to make our lives more wonderful.
Blessings and boundless virtue!