Absolutely ! Naming / labelling emphasizes finite limitations at the cost of infinite possibilities... But alas! All of us do that ! It is like a marriage of convenience :)
When reading ancient ambiguous meaningless poems that can't be understood by human intellect, just read ancient ambiguous meaningless poems that can't by understood by human intellect.
Those nine lines changed my life when I read them the first time when I was 19 years old. I have reflected on them over the last 27 years and still find deeper connection to them every time I read or hear those 9 simple lines.
I've been applying daoist principles for the last twenty years and found my life to be more happy and content. I enjoyed your video - you explain daoism in simple terms. Well done 😀
I rarely ever write comments below a youtube video. I believe in this case it makes sense though. I agree with the comments above, you should make a video for every single chapter. That first chapter was explained so well and clearly - thank you :)
without our nervous systems we might not think that we exist. but how the universe contributes to our being, including well being, is very mysterious...
Some food for thought: a sage isn't someone who always has the right answer. The sage is someone who knows there isn't a right (or wrong) answer. Love the channel, BTW. Looking forward to watching your journey.
If there are no right or wrong answers, then what you said and what he said both are just 2 answers to "who is a sage?". When you said "a sage isn't", you are implying that his answer is wrong. That's contradictory. But, then, a sage knows that you and I both are neither right nor wrong. And that is the way to go somewhere and also nowhere. Monks/sages did these thought experiments because they didn't have phones, Netflix, movies and popcorn. They lived their life and did these thought experiments instead of watch others. These Thoughts have no beginning or end. I don't know what I'm saying anymore.
This should be shown in all schools everywhere. Thank you for using your exceptional gift to help raise consciousness. You are a natural presenter. I’m excited to watch your channel and career grow.
@Shilling For Zion Jacob Needleman is a superb reader of the Sayings of The Buddha even though he is a lifeless American. Check out his version (some have added background music to liven them up).
I’m a Westerner and have come to appreciate Taoism greatly. Having moved through my native Judeo Christianity, and taken a look into Islam, I found myself alienated and not at home with these rigid patriarchal religions. I found Buddhism and Hinduism quite fascinating but it was the Tao that touched me. I know that Taoism is accepted as one of China’s religions, Unfortunately it is strictly monitored. China is still in the grip of Confucius. What better way to control the population. Although I have read that Taiwan freely practices Taoism in any way they want. At any rate I have enjoyed your posts.
Mr. George Thompson Your words are verry inspiring. " Living between learning, and not learning. Doing and not doing. Wanting and not wanting" Live in harmony, Yin and Yang. Keep up the good work.
I’m so glad you went into nature to introduce this chapter. The Tao Te Ching came to life and began to be understandable (as much as it can be through words) after I started finding places in nature to reflect and read. Love your videos!
Would love to see more of these explainations. I found alot of confusion and anxiety when first trying to understand the tao te ching and you made it very digestable and eye opening. Thanks again
10:30 really spoke to me. I've achieved alot, and have realised everything and more than I could have imagined, yet I find myself at what feels towards the end of a chapter in my professional life, surrounded by awards feeling unfullfilled and unhappy. Hope you're well George.
One journey to eastern world and your are now a totally new person. Your understanding of Dao de Jin is even deeper than 99% of Chinese. Well done! Well done!
Hi - what you’re talking about here, is basically my life. And I swear, this is the best video I’ve ever seen on UA-cam. You’re authenticity radiates. Thank you for existing.
George! dude you are awesome. Words cant quite explain the journey i've been on lately(go figure), But I really appreciate you doing these videos. You have a good way with words and with getting a understanding across someones mind. And you are right, This is a life changing poem. I just found your channel about 2 weeks ago and it has inspired me to start doing Tai Chi and exploring the concept of Taoism.( I am currently 23 and was raised very christian, and since i was 15, I have had many questions and concerns. But I have never heard of a concept explaining what i feel so well.) I appreciate you, Thank you for being you!!
Isaiah Muffenbier Very nicely put, and it sure sounds similair to the path I walked many years ago. The nice thing about the Tao is that it can be read by anyone regardless of culture or religion. Even more so, works like the Tao can actually help give a deeper understanding of the underlying keys and wisdom hidden within the Christian texts. All in all, there is no religion higher than Truth! And if I may be permitted a small advise on more of these reconsiling litterary treasures that have helped me a great deal troughout the years, I can highly reccomend reading Light on the Path by Mabel Collins, and The Kybalion, written by The Three Initiates. Blessings to you!
wow this was awesome!! everything was so well spoken i loved the way it flowed from really informative to really silly and still getting the message across perfectly. very paradoxical haha i love it thanks george you've set me up for a good day :)
Great video, George! The part about desires was particularly insightful for me and represented a perspective I didn't hear before. The illustration of being able to stop while you're jogging was excellent. Looking forward to see more chapters analysed!
I wanted to study in a millitary school and become a psychiatrist in the army.I studied really hard but i didn't make it.Instead I am now studying international and european studies, which I like it. I am following the road that was given to me by the universe and I believe that I will be happy.Thanks Tao.
Ok dude, I've been watching some of your videos every now and then for specific topics, but never considered subscribing. BUT WHEN GRANDPA GEORGE APPEARED!! Never clicked on that subscribe button faster lol
George, thank you for this remarkably power and clear journey. It was exactly what I needed at this moment. You are doing a great service here and I appreciate you for your generosity and your perspective.
Wow!! What a video!!! I've recently started qigong a few months ago and just discovered Taoism. I think we can all learn from this! Our concepts and beliefs we have learned in the west has definitely had it's problems.
George, Your video moved me, I can teach you a practice that can glue everything together for you, or put you on the best relationship with mystery. I am 46 years old and started deeply at 18, lived in monasteries and ashrams. I have been practicing QiGong for 27 Years and now I teach what I consider the most effective and powerful QiGong Lineage of Chinas QìGong. I am not looking for someone to teach, have no necessity, but I said what I had to say.
I think this is actually one of your best videos so far! Love the format, and especially that it's a bit longer than usually :p Also just an idea of mine, I'd love to see a longer video in which you go through the Taoist philosophy in even more detail, giving more examples etc. Something similar to a podcast. Keep up the good work!
my brother was a follower of tao and I read to him his last days. I see the ability to find relief in these words as one acknowledges what one doesn't know of why we are here and how there is so much we can yet find that is amazing in life. even in loss. thanks for this .
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George, Thank you for posting your videos. Much in the vein of Jung's synchronisity, they began to appear in my feed at a time in my life where I most needed additional insight and guidance into the nature of reality and in trying to regain the internal balance which mirrors that of the universe. I am finding that the philosophy of the Tao very much aligns with what my instinct has always told me concerning the balance and harmony in life and the universe. It has been a joy to watch your journey.
Great video. Very good explanation of the Daoist poem beginning the 'Tao Te Ching.' Well worth reading the other people you reference like Alan Watts too, and Bruce Lee, since both explain Eastern philosophy so well for anyone interested. Truly opens the eyes to the world.
Train Yourself Fit it sure looks like we are all starving for a little food for thought 😁! And on top of your great recommendations, I would like to add reading Light on the Path by Mabel Collins, and the books from Yogi Ramacharaka for an excellent in-depth look and deeper understanding of Eastern philosophy.
Zen Buddhist and The Stoics figured this out over a thousand years ago. Some questions were never meant to be answered, just have peace within the mystery.
@@celestes.7187 Were you listening to the video, Lao Tzu very likely didn t exist. I was talking about the not trying to find answers to questions that are impossible to answer to answer. Just have peace within the mystery.
@@8triagrammer Not entirely correct. Chan Buddhism was developed by an Indian monk named Bodhidharma after a long tradition of contact between ancient Chinese Taoists and Indian Buddhists. He was the first patriarch of the Zen school of the Shaolin temple.
Let go and let Tao!! Wonderful video! I’ve been listening to several Alan Watts lectures over the past few months and have become fascinated with the Tao and Buddhism. Keep up the GREAT work!
This is one of the most beautiful videos and explanations of taoism I have ever seen. Applying and living the Tao for the last year in my life and still found so much revelation with your video. Keep it up!
I finally got the book Tao te Ching from my library near my place and started reading it it’s so so so so deep it’s a book that you must read slowly and carefully because the quotes and philosophy are very deep in meaning but I myself like you have internalized the way into my daily life and to realize our mind is ambushed with negative thoughts and random thoughts that we internalize everyday for no reason that affect us and we don’t realize it affecting us and you must constantly remind your self to let go like you mentioned take a deep breath pause and let it all go and let the way take it’s course
George - More then the passage itself, your interpretation of it is so much more captivating. The passage/poem by itself would seem very abstract but it's the interpretation that brings clarity to it. It is true of other texts as well - Gita for example. You have done well here, really.
Dear George - I've been following your videos for a week now. By far this is the finest content that I've across. On learning about Tao philosophy I felt very aligned with it. Thank you for introducing us to such a beautiful/soulful 'way'.
I apologize for only just now having subscribed, but I've watched several of your videos and have really found a great deal of help from them. This one is probably one of my favorites. You're one of the reasons I just started my own channel to try to show how Taoist principles can be applied throughout the day! Thank you so much!
Cheers, George. I'll subscribe and give you a listen for awhile. It's certainly a monumental task that you've chosen to take on. I'm a 48yo American, who's been physically disabled since February 2013 (I had a seizure, the first in my life at age 41, but it happened in a shop (convenience store here in the U.S.) and I fell backwards, where there was no-one behind me to jump in and break my fall, or even near enough for me to accidentally fall against, which would likely have been just enough to stop what did happen, Me, crushing my 10th, 11th, and 12th thoracic vertebrae, and knocking myself unconscious on the hard tile. I was out for quite a long time, because upon awakening in the hospital, they had already performed several tests and scans, and I was in my own room. I was not paralyzed, unbelievably, but all three vertebrae were crushed in circumference by 50%, and lost 50% in the height of all 3. Had a kyphoplasty been performed even weeks after, I would probably have recovered, but the doctors at the Catholic hospital declined to tell me this, as I had just lost my health insurance from my previous job. They did want me to stay in the hospital for 3 weeks or more, but the surgery would have been less expensive than a month in hospital. I left, and somehow managed to get my car and things back to Texas from Oklahoma. However, by the time I learned about kyphoplasty or its cousin (both basically use a balloon to spread out the bits of vertebra and inject an epoxy concrete in the gaps), it was far too late and my uncle, who was a gifted but retired spinal surgeon, looked at all of my scans and had us sit down, so he could inform my mom and I that nothing could be done, and although he dislikes using pain drugs on patients, said that I'd be on heavyweight opiates for the rest of my life, so here I am. I'm able to walk (short distances), and although it hurts soo badly I can't describe it, the drugs let me function, and more importantly, live a little. If I were paralyzed, the pain would likely be less, but I'd have naught to live for. ANYWAY, enough about me, I've been a student of the Tao for many, many years, I've seen the heavens, and felt the touch of the 10,000 things in a gentle breeze. My journey has been much like the Greek mythology of Sisyphus, forever rolling a stone up the mountain, only to push one step too far and have it roll down the other side. And I do what I've been taught, I start again at the base of the mountain, because deep inside, I know that something was wrong with my path. It may have held wonders, but I mis-stepped or mis-spoke and nothing but starting again would place me on the correct path. I'd love to find my own mastery, but I have a long journey ahead. - Brandon Wagner
As someone who first awakened through practice of Zen Buddhism, I can truly appreciate this wonderful poem and video. 🙏🏼 We are witnessing the awakening of humanity, and yet still the most beautiful thing is that we have so much MORE to awaken to. The Tao is nameless as it’s always changing in constant motion-like us. ✨
Agree totally. This slow awakening that is taking place quietly and spreading through videos like this is quite exciting. Fills me with hope and optimism that people are searching for a bit of meaning that can help to ground us in an otherwise scary world. Letting go and appreciating the wonder and mystery around us is a skill that is within reach of us all and once we start doing it, things get suddenly a bit quieter. And happier.
Just imagine that all those high paid suits at all the cable networks couldn't realize that there was a huge demand for intelligent content like this. This is better than anything on cable anywhere if you ask me. Keep up the search, and the great work.
For me the key is, ' To SEE the mystery . . . '. Without that 'experience' (and it cannot be an experience), Taoism is a philosophy, albiet a beautiful one, and way of life. With the SEEING however, comes something else. Thank you George - walk gently.
George. This is one of the best video content I've ever seen. The topic is important, but you also take the effort to produce and edit this in a beautiful seemingly simple way. Thanks!
At the risk of sounding too personal, I want to say, George, you're a magnificent young man. Thank you for sharing this, you, and the wiggly world. It's absolutely inspiring.
Well, after I have learnt from Alan Watts, that there is no actual "Way" or path or journey, it makes perfectly sense to write that the dao which can be named is not the dao, for there is no dao anyway. ;-) Not in a sense of starting from one point and getting to a so called end. It is because the beginning and the end are one. And this is explained in the fact that there is only a present moment. Everything exists in this present moment, all infinite possibilities. :-) If you live in the present moment, as if what you wish for is already here, it shall be done unto you. This is the secret. The Kingdom of Heaven is inside of us. If we believe in it, it will be done unto us, in each and every second we sew the seeds of imagination, of electrical codes and the universe answers in a magnetic way.
It goes by many names. But you are right, whatever "it" is, it is within all of us, and always has been. It is impossible to rationalize, you just feel it. Quiet your mind, find the balance, you may hear it whisper back to you. "This is the way" lol
Hi George, I will check back with you when you become grandpa George 55 or 60 yrs from now. See because I know that good advise on stable pier is easy. When your faith has been shaken by trauma, physical pain or disease or failing memory or loss of loved one, sounds fatalic but it is real. These limited situations though frightening to the ego, are the essencial oil to transcend mental bondage so one does not die by astonishment. Very personal idiosyncrasies and panic must be handled so as not to slip into unconsciousness. Mystery is an experience. This is why i say I know not!
Great video, spoken as a true monk. When you were sitting with your full body in frame on the downed tree, because of the picture you painted with words up to that point, when you stretched out your hands speaking of the mystery, you 100% became thee gnome showing me the room I'm in and in turn, pointing to my life. That's the best I got at getting the mystery down in words. Great videos, keep on keeping on
idk what force sent me on here, a youtuber i’ve never heard of or seen but i thank them and i thank you. this was one of the best videos i’ve ever watched and it gave me a lot of perspective. have a good day george & grandpa george ☀️
The Dao is how... How things work, how things happen... Creation is a process... Principle & Process... How & What... Once you know How & What, you will know Dao or Logos... In Christianity, the closest thing to Dao is... The Holy Spirit. Stay frosty & safe. 😎😁
What a pleasure to come across this video, thank you so much! As a scientist since 7-8 years and student of DaoDeJing since almost 2 decades I can confirm what you mentioned about scientists is so true, but only applies to superficial ones, who either did not reach a deep understanding of science or became old and rigid, without seeing the more profound picture. I don't know of any colleague of mine who thinks we can understand everything, even if we're given thousands of years. We study to push the limits of our understanding further and further, never stopping, never carving anything in stone, always changing theories and ideas as long as they can be changed to fit better our description of the world, according to the latest piece of evidence. I'm delighted to learn about people like you, George :) peace, and keep your 功夫
@Adam A. on the outside, to the novice eye, it may appear this way but once you get closer to the core of what makes a belief system fully function there are vast differences between,, philosophy, theology, Hermenuetics, and doctrine. Trust me, I've studied them all at an academic level.
This was a really great video. Thank you for describing this poem in the way that you did. Even though I have read numerous books on Buddhism and other subjects of Zen so far, I could not have read it and understood it as well as you explained. This video definitely makes me want to read more of this book. If you are looking for feedback, Grandpa George wasn't my favorite, although at the same time, its wasn't a huge deal. I understood the concepts without his addition to the video and when I went back over the video slowly a second time to take notes, I skipped over his part. But, as you know, you can't please everyone. And, as I know, nothing will ever be perfectly the way I want it.. Oh wait.. I am not supposed to desire things to be perfect... :) Thanks again for the great video. Overall, it really helped me a lot. o/
Love this take on the Dao de ching, have recently read this along with watching talks like this to complement. Your comparison of Daoism teaching about the value of uncertainty with the ideal of certainty in the mainstream religions was the most powerful piece for me. Perhaps the simplest way to distinguish them. Great work my brother, coming from a Brit living in China these days :-) Will check in to your channel when the flow takes me there to stop by in future
The Bible does sorta teach as you say a sort of knowable god, though if you get past it’s literal surface and see the mystical allegorical underlying you begin to see the practice of meditation, or even specifically, Kundalini. Consider the 4 elements of Earth, Water, Air, and Fire, and the theme of which will begin to unfold. Nearly every Old Testament story has the hero and the foe. See the foe as ego, and you begin to see the theme of turmoil of combating the Earthly desires that keep the consciousness heavy in weight bound to the Earth, as apposed to raising consciousness into Air and Fire, where the ego dares you not to go. The Genesis is with a tree of Good and Evil, nonetheless. We can dine on our analytical side, or our creative spiritual side, yet balance is the life! If that is not Yin Yang and the middle way, then we missed the theme the Bible. Remember, the path is narrow, so don’t be to hard on yourself if you did miss it. Jesus says the kingdom is within you, and the structures of the temple represent anatomical brain structure in anatomical terms that can easily be seen. Jesus also says you body is a Temple. It’s a difficult study, but many Tao parallels can be drawn, and for me, that is very exciting.
Yea however to do that you have to discard the exo, and look to the eso, and then your christian brothers will happily kill you (depending on, perhaps, geographical location and strength of catholic hold....) for being an occultist. Quoting such as 'suffer a witch'.
Good thoughts. There are several books out on parallels of Christianity and Taoism. Although much wisdom can be gleamed from both, I prefer the Tao Te Ching, as is doesn't get so wrapped up in evil.
**How you define the tree nice answer from J.R.R Tolkien's Mythopoeia... "You look at trees and label them just so, (for trees are `trees', and growing is `to grow'); you walk the earth and tread with solemn pace one of the many minor globes of Space: a star's a star, some matter in a ball compelled to courses mathematical amid the regimented, cold, Inane, where destined atoms are each moment slain."
The news may read like a horror movie, but I'm not disheartened. Works like this (logical, passionate, concentrated, yet, accessible) are exciting evidence of an emerging, healing consciousness around the world. Thank you sincerely for your insight. Our species needs more like you. Xx
Hello Mr T, I remember in one of your videos you tried to interview a Ch’an Master. Well, I am soon to be ordained as a novice Zen monk in the Japanese Soto-shu tradition. My teacher is in the UK (I think not to far from you), would you be interested in meeting him? With a bow, Chishou.
Aloha George! I am a Taoist teacher here in Southern California, and wanted to reach out and let you know how much I have enjoyed your video offerings. Thank you so much! I also invite you to check out our community's website at: www.TaoTribe.com Besides the translations of the Tao Te Ching that you recommend, I also highly recommend Stephen Mitchell's version, which has made the ancient teachings so accessible to so many people. Carry on with your good work, and perhaps we will meet somewhere along the Way. Till then, Peace and Joy in the Tao.
Good stuff George. Chapter 4 did it for me - where it said ' The Way precedes even the Gods'. That statement gave me the clearest insight into Tao I've ever had before or since.
But is a life without desires a life worth living? What point is there, if you're not pursuing something? Even by just chasing the mystery, one isn't desireless.
"Nothing in the world is as soft and yielding as water. Yet for dissolving the hard and inflexible, nothing can surpass it. The soft overcomes the hard; the gentle overcomes the rigid. Everyone knows this is true, but few can put it into practice. Therefore the Master remains serene in the midst of sorrow. Evil cannot enter his heart. Because he has given up helping, he is people's greatest help. True words seem paradoxical." Chapter 78 You aim at things to orient yourself in the world, but the things at which you aim are illusory: they exist on a continuum with all of existence within your own mind. If desire is the root of suffering, then why not relinquish desire? Because you will desire not to desire. Then how do you practice desireless-ness? By *realization* that your desires are an illusion of ego. YOU cannot desire not to desire, but you, as a being, can learn that desire breeds suffering and distance yourself from it. Paradoxical, no? Here's a fun thought experiment: You want to be better! Of course you do. However, under what authority do you define "better"? Do you not define it with the very ego that needs improving, by your own definition? Then how do you *know* what would be better for you? Perhaps you don't, and you learn as you step along the path. Or perhaps you approach better, by your own definition, incrementally until your suffering is reduced. Then I might ask what the difference between those two processes are; could you do anything other than meander along the path towards your goal, adjusting it along the way? Or would you rather step gracefully, taking it all in, appreciating the mystery of existence itself, as is. Or perhaps somewhere between, as you probably have done since you were born ;)
@@gee-wizz.5050 What is fear but an inverted form of desire? You desire, and approach. You fear, and you retreat. Too much of either leaves you unbalanced, regardless. ♥️
“If you name me, you negate me. By giving me a name, a label, you negate all the other things I could possibly be.” - Søren Kierkegaard.
oh , good heavens !
Or... I distinguish you, from all the other people you are not. Naming / Focusing on things or ideas makes them more Not less 🤗
@@PlentitudeIsland We are all connected. Anyone who has a fear or a hope overemphasizes the self. This is not the tao.
Absolutely ! Naming / labelling emphasizes finite limitations at the cost of infinite possibilities... But alas! All of us do that ! It is like a marriage of convenience :)
Wow. I Love it. That would be fantastic on a t-shirt.
George, I'm really proud of you! Please accept my Congratulations from Wudang, China!
thank you Sifu!
来自中国武当山的赞赏？我的妈呀…!
@@SarumanDeWhite 为何如此吃惊?
Wudang Taoist Wellness Academy You guys are a great team 👍🙏
@@mastergutaichi 因为你是一个传奇
‘When sitting, just sit. When walking, just walk.’
Respect......!
H Q
Idiot
Before enlightenment chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment, chop water, carry wood.
When reading ancient ambiguous meaningless poems that can't be understood by human intellect, just read ancient ambiguous meaningless poems that can't by understood by human intellect.
H Q Your lobotomy went wrong and they still let you out.
My favourite quote from the Tao Te Ching is
'To live till you die
Is to live long enough.'
Those nine lines changed my life when I read them the first time when I was 19 years old. I have reflected on them over the last 27 years and still find deeper connection to them every time I read or hear those 9 simple lines.
I've been applying daoist principles for the last twenty years and found my life to be more happy and content. I enjoyed your video - you explain daoism in simple terms. Well done 😀
You should do this for every chapter!
Great video
would make for an amazing series, I agree
Wayne dwyer did it for every chapter and i think george will a wonderful vehicle for the dao to flow through
Yes I think that would be wonderful!
Agreed!
I rarely ever write comments below a youtube video. I believe in this case it makes sense though. I agree with the comments above, you should make a video for every single chapter. That first chapter was explained so well and clearly - thank you :)
without our nervous systems we might not think that we exist. but how the universe contributes to our being, including well being, is very mysterious...
Some food for thought: a sage isn't someone who always has the right answer. The sage is someone who knows there isn't a right (or wrong) answer.
Love the channel, BTW. Looking forward to watching your journey.
Good point. Although he knows that there isn't a right decision, to us it looks like he's making the right decision - he's living the paradox.
Cheers!
Just an excuse for not making decisions about.moraliry, in order to avoid taking actions when.someone does.an.imoral deed.
I do nothing & nothing is left undone... 🍻
If there are no right or wrong answers, then what you said and what he said both are just 2 answers to "who is a sage?". When you said "a sage isn't", you are implying that his answer is wrong. That's contradictory. But, then, a sage knows that you and I both are neither right nor wrong. And that is the way to go somewhere and also nowhere. Monks/sages did these thought experiments because they didn't have phones, Netflix, movies and popcorn. They lived their life and did these thought experiments instead of watch others. These Thoughts have no beginning or end. I don't know what I'm saying anymore.
Maybe the right answer is the freedom of knowing there isn't one.
This should be shown in all schools everywhere. Thank you for using your exceptional gift to help raise consciousness. You are a natural presenter. I’m excited to watch your channel and career grow.
Please do this with the other chapters!
Yes, Alan Watts regarding The Nameless: "Trying to describe it is like trying to taste your own tongue."
Hope you enjoyed Grandpa George 😛
He must have a huge knowlege xD
Absolutely fascinating how much you resemble him and how well preserved he is.
Brother, This work is fantastic. More More More!
@Shilling For Zion Jacob Needleman is a superb reader of the Sayings of The Buddha even though he is a lifeless American. Check out his version (some have added background music to liven them up).
It’s a great addition to thats makes the video even more interesting.
I’m a Westerner and have come to appreciate Taoism greatly. Having moved through my native Judeo Christianity, and taken a look into Islam, I found myself alienated and not at home with these rigid patriarchal religions. I found Buddhism and Hinduism quite fascinating but it was the Tao that touched me. I know that Taoism is accepted as one of China’s religions, Unfortunately it is strictly monitored. China is still in the grip of Confucius. What better way to control the population. Although I have read that Taiwan freely practices Taoism in any way they want. At any rate I have enjoyed your posts.
Mr. George Thompson
Your words are verry inspiring.
" Living between learning, and not learning. Doing and not doing. Wanting and not wanting"
Live in harmony, Yin and Yang.
Keep up the good work.
I’m so glad you went into nature to introduce this chapter. The Tao Te Ching came to life and began to be understandable (as much as it can be through words) after I started finding places in nature to reflect and read. Love your videos!
The lines with the Images and backgroundsound in the beginning; its just perfect, I could listen to this 24/7
Would love to see more of these explainations. I found alot of confusion and anxiety when first trying to understand the tao te ching and you made it very digestable and eye opening. Thanks again
Your a great speaker and story teller, please continue to make more videos on these spirituality practices, there really interesting and eye opening
10:30 really spoke to me. I've achieved alot, and have realised everything and more than I could have imagined, yet I find myself at what feels towards the end of a chapter in my professional life, surrounded by awards feeling unfullfilled and unhappy. Hope you're well George.
Best 13 minutes i've ever spent on UA-cam! Keep up the good work!
One journey to eastern world and your are now a totally new person. Your understanding of Dao de Jin is even deeper than 99% of Chinese. Well done! Well done!
One can see that you pour your heart into these videos and that's something I appreciate infinitely!
Hi - what you’re talking about here, is basically my life. And I swear, this is the best video I’ve ever seen on UA-cam. You’re authenticity radiates. Thank you for existing.
man, thanks a lot!! that's some serious praise! thank you for existing, friend!
George! dude you are awesome.
Words cant quite explain the journey i've been on lately(go figure), But I really appreciate you doing these videos. You have a good way with words and with getting a understanding across someones mind. And you are right, This is a life changing poem.
I just found your channel about 2 weeks ago and it has inspired me to start doing Tai Chi and exploring the concept of Taoism.( I am currently 23 and was raised very christian, and since i was 15, I have had many questions and concerns. But I have never heard of a concept explaining what i feel so well.)
I appreciate you,
Thank you for being you!!
Isaiah Muffenbier Very nicely put, and it sure sounds similair to the path I walked many years ago. The nice thing about the Tao is that it can be read by anyone regardless of culture or religion. Even more so, works like the Tao can actually help give a deeper understanding of the underlying keys and wisdom hidden within the Christian texts. All in all, there is no religion higher than Truth!
And if I may be permitted a small advise on more of these reconsiling litterary treasures that have helped me a great deal troughout the years, I can highly reccomend reading Light on the Path by Mabel Collins, and The Kybalion, written by The Three Initiates. Blessings to you!
I am impressed with George's simplicity in explaining the Tao
THE ALPHA AND OMEGA POEM
Acknowledge the Mystery
Befriend the Mystery
Love the Mystery.
This is as deep and profound
as it can or will ever get.
“Let go... Let Tao”. I heard this amazing advice at just the right time... thank you!
wow this was awesome!! everything was so well spoken i loved the way it flowed from really informative to really silly and still getting the message across perfectly. very paradoxical haha i love it thanks george you've set me up for a good day :)
fascinating & enlightening "when the student is ready the teacher appears"
Thank you, will definitely pass this on
Great video, George! The part about desires was particularly insightful for me and represented a perspective I didn't hear before. The illustration of being able to stop while you're jogging was excellent. Looking forward to see more chapters analysed!
I wanted to study in a millitary school and become a psychiatrist in the army.I studied really hard but i didn't make it.Instead I am now studying international and european studies, which I like it. I am following the road that was given to me by the universe and I believe that I will be happy.Thanks Tao.
Ok dude, I've been watching some of your videos every now and then for specific topics, but never considered subscribing.
BUT WHEN GRANDPA GEORGE APPEARED!!
Never clicked on that subscribe button faster lol
haha :') welcome to the family
Having spent many years searching, your videos resonate like no other. Please accept my sincere gratitude....!
thank you friend! good luck on your journey ☯️
George, thank you for this remarkably power and clear journey. It was exactly what I needed at this moment. You are doing a great service here and I appreciate you for your generosity and your perspective.
really glad you enjoyed!
Wow!! What a video!!! I've recently started qigong a few months ago and just discovered Taoism. I think we can all learn from this! Our concepts and beliefs we have learned in the west has definitely had it's problems.
Thank you for sharing, Your presentation of “Let go, Let Tao” is beautifully presented.
Your videos and other inspirational Stoic, Buddhist, and Taoist videos are really helping me grow as a person and become a lot happier. Thank you🤗💖☯️
George you are very, very positive person with positive energy, spreading kindness. I enjoy watching your videos and learning with you
loving the production on this , beautifully put together, great insights and genuinely enjoyable to watch , so much peace love and Infinite bliss
really glad you enjoyed!
George, Your video moved me, I can teach you a practice that can glue everything together for you, or put you on the best relationship with mystery. I am 46 years old and started deeply at 18, lived in monasteries and ashrams. I have been practicing QiGong for 27 Years and now I teach what I consider the most effective and powerful QiGong Lineage of Chinas QìGong.
I am not looking for someone to teach, have no necessity, but I said what I had to say.
I think this is actually one of your best videos so far! Love the format, and especially that it's a bit longer than usually :p Also just an idea of mine, I'd love to see a longer video in which you go through the Taoist philosophy in even more detail, giving more examples etc. Something similar to a podcast.
Keep up the good work!
my brother was a follower of tao and I read to him his last days. I see the ability to find relief in these words as one acknowledges what one doesn't know of why we are here and how there is so much we can yet find that is amazing in life. even in loss. thanks for this .
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And he charged them that they should tell no man: but the more he charged them, so much the more a great deal they published it.
(Mark 7:36)
0⁰00⁰⁹⁰⁰⁰p poo p ppl òop0⁹
George, Thank you for posting your videos. Much in the vein of Jung's synchronisity, they began to appear in my feed at a time in my life where I most needed additional insight and guidance into the nature of reality and in trying to regain the internal balance which mirrors that of the universe. I am finding that the philosophy of the Tao very much aligns with what my instinct has always told me concerning the balance and harmony in life and the universe. It has been a joy to watch your journey.
7:24 Labels limit our connection to and understanding.
10:30 Desire is unhappiness as it’s not accepting the present moment.
The last two lines, I have just learnt. George, you are speaking well, and from the heart....keep at it, you will go places.....
This is very good! I hope you keep making videos about this subjects, the internet needs this positive stuff :)
"I am a complex thing that can never be capturet in words." - Beautiful.
Great video. Very good explanation of the Daoist poem beginning the 'Tao Te Ching.' Well worth reading the other people you reference like Alan Watts too, and Bruce Lee, since both explain Eastern philosophy so well for anyone interested. Truly opens the eyes to the world.
Train Yourself Fit it sure looks like we are all starving for a little food for thought 😁! And on top of your great recommendations, I would like to add reading Light on the Path by Mabel Collins, and the books from Yogi Ramacharaka for an excellent in-depth look and deeper understanding of Eastern philosophy.
How fulfilling it is to hear your thoughts. How different are our perspectives but still point to the same thing. May bliss follow you
Zen Buddhist and The Stoics figured this out over a thousand years ago. Some questions were never meant to be answered, just have peace within the mystery.
Joe Star Lao Tzu predates that. He existed around 600 bc and some of his writings is attributed to mystics who came before him.
@@celestes.7187 Were you listening to the video, Lao Tzu very likely didn t exist. I was talking about the not trying to find answers to questions that are impossible to answer to answer. Just have peace within the mystery.
@@8triagrammer Lao Tzu likely didn't exist, please listen to the beginning of the video.
@@8triagrammer stupid dipshit
@@8triagrammer Not entirely correct. Chan Buddhism was developed by an Indian monk named Bodhidharma after a long tradition of contact between ancient Chinese Taoists and Indian Buddhists. He was the first patriarch of the Zen school of the Shaolin temple.
Let go and let Tao!! Wonderful video! I’ve been listening to several Alan Watts lectures over the past few months and have become fascinated with the Tao and Buddhism. Keep up the GREAT work!
Super well done! Love your channel and thanks for your effort. Peace from Germany.
thanks a lot!
i found the best youtube channel in 2021, the best time ever to watch this.. thank you! Let it go! Let it Tao!
Wonderful exposition on the first chapter, George! What translation are you consulting, and will you be doing videos like this for other chapters!?
This is one of the most beautiful videos and explanations of taoism I have ever seen. Applying and living the Tao for the last year in my life and still found so much revelation with your video. Keep it up!
1) Desires are endless.
2) Truth longs to be seen by eyes unclouded by desires.
I finally got the book Tao te Ching from my library near my place and started reading it it’s so so so so deep it’s a book that you must read slowly and carefully because the quotes and philosophy are very deep in meaning but I myself like you have internalized the way into my daily life and to realize our mind is ambushed with negative thoughts and random thoughts that we internalize everyday for no reason that affect us and we don’t realize it affecting us and you must constantly remind your self to let go like you mentioned take a deep breath pause and let it all go and let the way take it’s course
When you say ....’I don’t know ‘“ your closer to knowing
George - More then the passage itself, your interpretation of it is so much more captivating. The passage/poem by itself would seem very abstract but it's the interpretation that brings clarity to it. It is true of other texts as well - Gita for example.
You have done well here, really.
Dear George - I've been following your videos for a week now. By far this is the finest content that I've across. On learning about Tao philosophy I felt very aligned with it.
Thank you for introducing us to such a beautiful/soulful 'way'.
I apologize for only just now having subscribed, but I've watched several of your videos and have really found a great deal of help from them. This one is probably one of my favorites.
You're one of the reasons I just started my own channel to try to show how Taoist principles can be applied throughout the day!
Thank you so much!
Wow..you are gonna long way bro ..you deserve more subcribers..great video
Cheers, George. I'll subscribe and give you a listen for awhile. It's certainly a monumental task that you've chosen to take on. I'm a 48yo American, who's been physically disabled since February 2013 (I had a seizure, the first in my life at age 41, but it happened in a shop (convenience store here in the U.S.) and I fell backwards, where there was no-one behind me to jump in and break my fall, or even near enough for me to accidentally fall against, which would likely have been just enough to stop what did happen, Me, crushing my 10th, 11th, and 12th thoracic vertebrae, and knocking myself unconscious on the hard tile. I was out for quite a long time, because upon awakening in the hospital, they had already performed several tests and scans, and I was in my own room. I was not paralyzed, unbelievably, but all three vertebrae were crushed in circumference by 50%, and lost 50% in the height of all 3. Had a kyphoplasty been performed even weeks after, I would probably have recovered, but the doctors at the Catholic hospital declined to tell me this, as I had just lost my health insurance from my previous job. They did want me to stay in the hospital for 3 weeks or more, but the surgery would have been less expensive than a month in hospital. I left, and somehow managed to get my car and things back to Texas from Oklahoma. However, by the time I learned about kyphoplasty or its cousin (both basically use a balloon to spread out the bits of vertebra and inject an epoxy concrete in the gaps), it was far too late and my uncle, who was a gifted but retired spinal surgeon, looked at all of my scans and had us sit down, so he could inform my mom and I that nothing could be done, and although he dislikes using pain drugs on patients, said that I'd be on heavyweight opiates for the rest of my life, so here I am. I'm able to walk (short distances), and although it hurts soo badly I can't describe it, the drugs let me function, and more importantly, live a little. If I were paralyzed, the pain would likely be less, but I'd have naught to live for.
ANYWAY, enough about me, I've been a student of the Tao for many, many years, I've seen the heavens, and felt the touch of the 10,000 things in a gentle breeze. My journey has been much like the Greek mythology of Sisyphus, forever rolling a stone up the mountain, only to push one step too far and have it roll down the other side. And I do what I've been taught, I start again at the base of the mountain, because deep inside, I know that something was wrong with my path. It may have held wonders, but I mis-stepped or mis-spoke and nothing but starting again would place me on the correct path. I'd love to find my own mastery, but I have a long journey ahead.
- Brandon Wagner
As someone who first awakened through practice of Zen Buddhism, I can truly appreciate this wonderful poem and video. 🙏🏼
We are witnessing the awakening of humanity, and yet still the most beautiful thing is that we have so much MORE to awaken to. The Tao is nameless as it’s always changing in constant motion-like us. ✨
Agree totally. This slow awakening that is taking place quietly and spreading through videos like this is quite exciting. Fills me with hope and optimism that people are searching for a bit of meaning that can help to ground us in an otherwise scary world.
Letting go and appreciating the wonder and mystery around us is a skill that is within reach of us all and once we start doing it, things get suddenly a bit quieter. And happier.
Just imagine that all those high paid suits at all the cable networks couldn't realize that there was a huge demand for intelligent content like this. This is better than anything on cable anywhere if you ask me. Keep up the search, and the great work.
Absolutely phenomenal video friend, so so so well done thank you
thanks so much brother!
For me the key is, ' To SEE the mystery . . . '. Without that 'experience' (and it cannot be an experience), Taoism is a philosophy, albiet a beautiful one, and way of life. With the SEEING however, comes something else. Thank you George - walk gently.
George. This is one of the best video content I've ever seen. The topic is important, but you also take the effort to produce and edit this in a beautiful seemingly simple way. Thanks!
Matemáticas en Nuevo León de acuerdo
I am reading the Tao Te Ching and I found this explanation confirms what I thought! Thank you so much, George
Glad it was helpful!
Damn this video is amazing on so many levels.
At the risk of sounding too personal, I want to say, George, you're a magnificent young man. Thank you for sharing this, you, and the wiggly world. It's absolutely inspiring.
Well, after I have learnt from Alan Watts, that there is no actual "Way" or path or journey, it makes perfectly sense to write that the dao which can be named is not the dao, for there is no dao anyway. ;-) Not in a sense of starting from one point and getting to a so called end. It is because the beginning and the end are one. And this is explained in the fact that there is only a present moment. Everything exists in this present moment, all infinite possibilities. :-) If you live in the present moment, as if what you wish for is already here, it shall be done unto you. This is the secret. The Kingdom of Heaven is inside of us. If we believe in it, it will be done unto us, in each and every second we sew the seeds of imagination, of electrical codes and the universe answers in a magnetic way.
It goes by many names. But you are right, whatever "it" is, it is within all of us, and always has been. It is impossible to rationalize, you just feel it. Quiet your mind, find the balance, you may hear it whisper back to you. "This is the way" lol
George, your videos are a piece of art. And your acting as Grandpa George is so good too. Love your content.
Hi George, I will check back with you when you become grandpa George 55 or 60 yrs from now. See because I know that good advise on stable pier is easy. When your faith has been shaken by trauma, physical pain or disease or failing memory or loss of loved one, sounds fatalic but it is real. These limited situations though frightening to the ego, are the essencial oil to transcend mental bondage so one does not die by astonishment. Very personal idiosyncrasies and panic must be handled so as not to slip into unconsciousness. Mystery is an experience. This is why i say I know not!
Great video, spoken as a true monk. When you were sitting with your full body in frame on the downed tree, because of the picture you painted with words up to that point, when you stretched out your hands speaking of the mystery, you 100% became thee gnome showing me the room I'm in and in turn, pointing to my life. That's the best I got at getting the mystery down in words.
Great videos, keep on keeping on
that resonates so much. thank you, George
pleasure!
idk what force sent me on here, a youtuber i’ve never heard of or seen but i thank them and i thank you. this was one of the best videos i’ve ever watched and it gave me a lot of perspective.
have a good day george & grandpa george ☀️
We are conscious energy seeking to return to steady -state or equilibrium.
Even there it continues to expand, similar to a mendel brout set (forgive spelling).
As from one young smart man to another - keep it going! World needs more people like us!
OMG I'm travelling right now and I literally have the two the ching with me. Don't even know why I packed it, it just happened 😂
Synchronicity
I'm both blown away and not blown away.
...
Seriously though, phenomenal video!
The wind is within you. 😉
The Dao is how... How things work, how things happen... Creation is a process... Principle & Process... How & What... Once you know How & What, you will know Dao or Logos... In Christianity, the closest thing to Dao is... The Holy Spirit. Stay frosty & safe. 😎😁
This message/thoughts are such a joy! So beautifully put. Blessed to have stumbled across this! Thank you.
I like you kiddo, Have a great time in your discovery. :)
Same thing, different words
What a pleasure to come across this video, thank you so much! As a scientist since 7-8 years and student of DaoDeJing since almost 2 decades I can confirm what you mentioned about scientists is so true, but only applies to superficial ones, who either did not reach a deep understanding of science or became old and rigid, without seeing the more profound picture. I don't know of any colleague of mine who thinks we can understand everything, even if we're given thousands of years. We study to push the limits of our understanding further and further, never stopping, never carving anything in stone, always changing theories and ideas as long as they can be changed to fit better our description of the world, according to the latest piece of evidence. I'm delighted to learn about people like you, George :) peace, and keep your 功夫
“And the Tao became flesh and dwelt among us.” -John 1;14
“I am the Way.” -Jesus
That passage actually used the word, Tao or Dao?
@@_Wai_Wai_ simp much?
Daoism and Christianity is very compatible. Study both.
@Adam A. on the outside, to the novice eye, it may appear this way but once you get closer to the core of what makes a belief system fully function there are vast differences between,, philosophy, theology, Hermenuetics, and doctrine. Trust me, I've studied them all at an academic level.
Christian Metatron
The exact polar opposite of what you’re saying is true.
Wasn’t expecting this video to be so genuinely entertaining, it has lots of info and is equally fun to watch, cheers :)
This was a really great video. Thank you for describing this poem in the way that you did. Even though I have read numerous books on Buddhism and other subjects of Zen so far, I could not have read it and understood it as well as you explained. This video definitely makes me want to read more of this book. If you are looking for feedback, Grandpa George wasn't my favorite, although at the same time, its wasn't a huge deal. I understood the concepts without his addition to the video and when I went back over the video slowly a second time to take notes, I skipped over his part. But, as you know, you can't please everyone. And, as I know, nothing will ever be perfectly the way I want it.. Oh wait.. I am not supposed to desire things to be perfect... :) Thanks again for the great video. Overall, it really helped me a lot. o/
Love this take on the Dao de ching, have recently read this along with watching talks like this to complement. Your comparison of Daoism teaching about the value of uncertainty with the ideal of certainty in the mainstream religions was the most powerful piece for me. Perhaps the simplest way to distinguish them. Great work my brother, coming from a Brit living in China these days :-) Will check in to your channel when the flow takes me there to stop by in future
The Bible does sorta teach as you say a sort of knowable god, though if you get past it’s literal surface and see the mystical allegorical underlying you begin to see the practice of meditation, or even specifically, Kundalini. Consider the 4 elements of Earth, Water, Air, and Fire, and the theme of which will begin to unfold. Nearly every Old Testament story has the hero and the foe. See the foe as ego, and you begin to see the theme of turmoil of combating the Earthly desires that keep the consciousness heavy in weight bound to the Earth, as apposed to raising consciousness into Air and Fire, where the ego dares you not to go. The Genesis is with a tree of Good and Evil, nonetheless. We can dine on our analytical side, or our creative spiritual side, yet balance is the life! If that is not Yin Yang and the middle way, then we missed the theme the Bible. Remember, the path is narrow, so don’t be to hard on yourself if you did miss it. Jesus says the kingdom is within you, and the structures of the temple represent anatomical brain structure in anatomical terms that can easily be seen. Jesus also says you body is a Temple. It’s a difficult study, but many Tao parallels can be drawn, and for me, that is very exciting.
Wookiemonsterfreak thanks for sharing your insights man, ive been pondering on this for a bit but explained it greatly
But you*
Yea however to do that you have to discard the exo, and look to the eso, and then your christian brothers will happily kill you (depending on, perhaps, geographical location and strength of catholic hold....) for being an occultist. Quoting such as 'suffer a witch'.
Good thoughts. There are several books out on parallels of Christianity and Taoism.
Although much wisdom can be gleamed from both, I prefer the Tao Te Ching, as is doesn't get so wrapped up in evil.
Layers
This truly has become one of my favorites. Thank you George ❤
My pleasure 😊
**How you define the tree
nice answer from J.R.R Tolkien's Mythopoeia...
"You look at trees and label them just so,
(for trees are `trees', and growing is `to grow');
you walk the earth and tread with solemn pace
one of the many minor globes of Space:
a star's a star, some matter in a ball
compelled to courses mathematical
amid the regimented, cold, Inane,
where destined atoms are each moment slain."
The news may read like a horror movie, but I'm not disheartened.
Works like this (logical, passionate, concentrated, yet, accessible) are exciting evidence of an emerging, healing consciousness around the world.
Thank you sincerely for your insight. Our species needs more like you. Xx
Hello Mr T, I remember in one of your videos you tried to interview a Ch’an Master. Well, I am soon to be ordained as a novice Zen monk in the Japanese Soto-shu tradition. My teacher is in the UK (I think not to far from you), would you be interested in meeting him? With a bow, Chishou.
Loved this video! The Tao De Ching has changed my life and I think more people should take the time to read it. Keep up the amazing content!
Aloha George! I am a Taoist teacher here in Southern California, and wanted to reach out and let you know how much I have enjoyed your video offerings. Thank you so much! I also invite you to check out our community's website at:
www.TaoTribe.com Besides the translations of the Tao Te Ching that you recommend, I also highly recommend Stephen Mitchell's version, which has made the ancient teachings so accessible to so many people. Carry on with your good work, and perhaps we will meet somewhere along the Way. Till then, Peace and Joy in the Tao.
Craig Phillips great name
Good stuff George. Chapter 4 did it for me - where it said ' The Way precedes even the Gods'. That statement gave me the clearest insight into Tao I've ever had before or since.
But is a life without desires a life worth living?
What point is there, if you're not pursuing something?
Even by just chasing the mystery, one isn't desireless.
"Nothing in the world is as soft and yielding as water.
Yet for dissolving the hard and inflexible, nothing can surpass it.
The soft overcomes the hard; the gentle overcomes the rigid.
Everyone knows this is true, but few can put it into practice.
Therefore the Master remains serene in the midst of sorrow.
Evil cannot enter his heart.
Because he has given up helping, he is people's greatest help.
True words seem paradoxical."
Chapter 78
You aim at things to orient yourself in the world, but the things at which you aim are illusory: they exist on a continuum with all of existence within your own mind.
If desire is the root of suffering, then why not relinquish desire? Because you will desire not to desire. Then how do you practice desireless-ness? By *realization* that your desires are an illusion of ego. YOU cannot desire not to desire, but you, as a being, can learn that desire breeds suffering and distance yourself from it.
Paradoxical, no?
Here's a fun thought experiment:
You want to be better! Of course you do. However, under what authority do you define "better"? Do you not define it with the very ego that needs improving, by your own definition? Then how do you *know* what would be better for you? Perhaps you don't, and you learn as you step along the path. Or perhaps you approach better, by your own definition, incrementally until your suffering is reduced. Then I might ask what the difference between those two processes are; could you do anything other than meander along the path towards your goal, adjusting it along the way? Or would you rather step gracefully, taking it all in, appreciating the mystery of existence itself, as is. Or perhaps somewhere between, as you probably have done since you were born ;)
Desires can be immature reflections of our world/environment, not allowing us to see the unseen Tao around us.
The emptiness that is full.
@@heartseed04 wow! I'm happily blown away! Can I ask...could you say the same thing, exchanging the words desire and fear?. 👲 Thank you.
@@gee-wizz.5050 What is fear but an inverted form of desire? You desire, and approach. You fear, and you retreat. Too much of either leaves you unbalanced, regardless. ♥️
@@heartseed04 as I thought- thank you!