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- January 25th, 2009
First, one of my favorite thoughts from Lao Tzu. It is called “The Way of Subtle Influence.” Ponder:
“Superior leaders are those whose existence is merely known;
The next best are loved and honored;
The next are respected;
And the next are ridiculed. Those who lack belief
Will not in turn be believed.
But when the command comes from afar
And the work is done, the goal achieved,
The people say, ‘We did it naturally.'” –Lao Tzu The phrase “tzu jan” is often translated as “naturally”. It can be literally translated as “self-so.” It refers to an event that occurs as a matter of course. This passage talks about subtle authority. Lao Tzu was a revered teacher of politicians and emperors. His experience taught him that unobtrusive leadership allowed the people to achieve a sense of self-government. The more a leader exchanges their power for influence, the less likely that their role would be challenged by the people; the people won’t fight what they do not perceive. Influence and power come not from heavy-handed ruling, but from gentle guidance. Subtle influence. There is that concept again. No need to control, just influence. Subtle influence. How beautiful, gentle…and loving.
The next best are loved and honored;
The next are respected;
And the next are ridiculed. Those who lack belief
Will not in turn be believed.
But when the command comes from afar
And the work is done, the goal achieved,
The people say, ‘We did it naturally.'” –Lao Tzu The phrase “tzu jan” is often translated as “naturally”. It can be literally translated as “self-so.” It refers to an event that occurs as a matter of course. This passage talks about subtle authority. Lao Tzu was a revered teacher of politicians and emperors. His experience taught him that unobtrusive leadership allowed the people to achieve a sense of self-government. The more a leader exchanges their power for influence, the less likely that their role would be challenged by the people; the people won’t fight what they do not perceive. Influence and power come not from heavy-handed ruling, but from gentle guidance. Subtle influence. There is that concept again. No need to control, just influence. Subtle influence. How beautiful, gentle…and loving.
Illuminate Possibilities 